So far, fibromyalgia has not been classified as an autoimmune disease. Although, it does bear some striking similarities to common autoimmune conditions. Thus, many contend that fibro does, in fact, belong in that category. It is nevertheless important for women to pay particular attention to this topic of premature ovarian failure (POF), whether you’re dealing with fibromyalgia or another disease classified as autoimmune, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
According to the National Institutes of Health, “premature ovarian failure is to some degree predictable in its occurrence and should be considered while encountering young women with loss of menstrual regularity, especially when there is a concomitant dysfunction in the immune system” [emphasis added]. In plain terms, that means that women with autoimmune conditions are at particular risk for premature ovarian failure. But just what is that and what can you do about it?
POF Overview and Symptoms
One of the reasons this topic is so important is because it often leads to infertility. Also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, POF is the failure of the our ovaries to function normally. In fact, the Mayo Clinic explains, “If your ovaries fail, they don’t produce normal amounts of the hormone estrogen or release eggs regularly. Infertility is a common result.” But don’t confuse this with premature menopause because with POF, you can still have periods and get pregnant.
It is equally important to note that the failure of the ovaries to produce estrogen is definitely problematic. For one thing, low estrogen can result in osteoporosis. Furthermore, it is linked to depression, vaginal dryness, and other physical and emotional issues.
The Mayo Clinic adds that “signs and symptoms of premature ovarian failure are similar to those of going through menopause and are typical of estrogen deficiency. They include:
- Irregular or skipped periods (amenorrhea), which might be present for years or develop after a pregnancy or after stopping birth control pills
- Difficulty conceiving
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Irritability or difficulty concentrating
- Decreased sexual desire
Fibromyalgia and Similar Conditions
This information is important to fibromyalgia patients and those with related conditions, such as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Why? Because not only are autoimmune-specific diseases highly correlated to problems with the female reproductive systems, but so are these related conditions. The non-profit group Health Rising provides information to the public regarding fibromyalgia and CFS. They reference a 2014 study, which found the following: “Women with ME/CFS were four times more likely to have had a hysterectomy than women without ME/CFS. They also tended to have hysterectomies and/or oophorectomies (removal of the ovaries) at an earlier age plus the average age of menopause in ME/CFS was a full 10 years earlier than that of the healthy controls.”
Furthermore, the study included from the aforementioned National Institutes of Health adds, “A number of clinical and biological features indicate that autoimmunity is involved in several ovarian pathologies such as POF, idiopathic infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome, or endometriosis.” Indeed, if you are a woman who suffers from fibromyalgia, then there’s a strong possibility you also suffer from endometriosis, as these two have a notable correlation. Again, despite fibro not being officially classified as an autoimmune disease, the similarities are striking.
Treating Premature Ovarian Failure
There are not a lot of options for treating this condition. Most focus on the problems associated with a lack of estrogen, especially as it pertains to preventing osteoporosis. Thus, your doctor will likely want to treat you with hormone therapy.
However, the Mayo Clinic warns: “In older women, long-term estrogen plus progestin therapy has been linked to an increased risk of heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease and breast cancer. In young women with premature ovarian failure, however, the benefits of hormone therapy outweigh the potential risks.” So, you will need to weigh your options with your healthcare practitioner. You will likely undergo simple hormone testing first. Although, a blood test may also be required to test your TSH levels and gauge the status of your thyroid in conjunction with the ovarian failure.
You may also need a bone density test before they start you on vitamin D and calcium supplements. Again, the goal here is prevent osteoporosis. You may want to also ask your healthcare practitioner how well any of these treatments will address the other symptoms associated with low estrogen as well. These include vaginal dryness, mood swings, headaches, depression, and more.
Have you experienced POF or a related condition in conjunction with your autoimmunity, fibromyalgia, or similar diseases? Which came first? And how have you treated it?
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