Abstract
Objective Premature ovarian failure in women under 40 years is uncommon, but not rare (1–3%), with up to 2.5% of adolescents affected. This study aims to investigate women's experiences of diagnosis, perception of cause, treatment, main concerns, long-term consequences and impact on self-esteem, sexual functioning and health-related quality of life.
Design This was a cross-sectional study, using a single-group design, including quantitative and qualitative measures. Two hundred and twenty questionnaires were sent to women recruited from the databases of two London specialist multidisciplinary clinics and from a national premature menopause self-help website. The questionnaire included the Rosenberg's Self Esteem Questionnaire, SF 36 Health Survey (quality of life), the Sexual Personal Experiences Questionnaire and the Young Menopause Assessment questionnaire, following a pilot to assess acceptability and feasibility.
Results The response rate was 62% in women aged 19–61 years. The majority of women felt that they had been offered inadequate information; 53% did not know the reason for their condition, 30% obtained a diagnosis within 6 months, and the diagnosis for 22% took up to 3 years. Fertility and bone health were main concerns, followed by emotional well-being. Libido and vaginal dryness were perceived as the main long-term effects by 79% of the women. The internet was the main source of information. The majority requested more information targeted to their age group and 49% requested psychological support, citing a negative impact on their self-esteem.
Conclusions This study examined women's perceptions of premature ovarian failure, its impact and the services they received. The results can be used to inform service reconfiguration and improvement.
Conflict of interest The authors report no conflict of interests. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.
Source of funding Seedcorn funding: British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).