POF: Future Help On the Horizon? By Sonja Kristiansen, MD on May 22, 2008

In my experience as a fertility specialist - and as a mother - by far one of the most traumatic diagnoses to render to a patient is one of POF, premature ovarian failure.

A POF diagnosis can ring with emotionally painful finality in a patient's mind. It means, in effect, premature menopause, sometimes as early as the woman's 20's. However, I am grateful to have alternatives to present in many cases. For many women with POF, the use of donor eggs with IVF can result in successful pregnancy.

Today there is even better news, even if only of the long-range type. Scientists have found more evidence of genetic connections to the incidence of POF. What this means is that the future may possibly hold a test that can tell very young women of their chance for having POF.

Presumably if a young woman with healthy eggs tests positive for the gene mutation, she could have her healthy existing egg cells retrieved and cryopreserved for later use.

I look forward to every additional opportunity I'm given for presenting a fulfilled future to women with POF.

Oocyte-specific gene mutations cause premature ovarian failure - Baylor College of Medicine

Dr. Sonja Kristiansen

Houston Fertility Center

Led by board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Sonja Kristiansen, Houston Fertility Center. As a proudly independent practice, we offer transparent pricing: $9,400 for INVOcell with PGT and $13,000 for IVF with PGT.

Our facility welcomes both local and out-of-town patients and is affiliated with leading medical organizations, including:

  • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
  • American Society for Reproductive Medicine
  • Texas Medical Association

Whether you're just beginning your fertility journey or exploring advanced treatment options, we're here to support you. Call (713) 225-5375 or contact us online to schedule your consultation. 

Hablamos español.

Contact Us Today

Rate, Review & Explore

Social Accounts Sprite