Premature Ovarian Failure and Hormone Levels
Q: I am a 32-year-old mother of three. After many tests for MS, cancer,
thyroid etc., I was told I was experiencing perimenopause. I've learned
from your website that I'm considered as having premature ovarian failure (POF).
My symptoms began when I was 25-26 years old. My doctor tested my prolactin
levels and not my FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) or LH (luteinizing hormone)
levels. Could you tell me why? Should I request that FSH and LH levels be taken?
Dr. Donnica: Elevated prolactin levels CAN cause amenorrhea (absent periods)
and other problems, and they are easily treated if they are elevated.
It was probably the right test at the right time. However, at this point,
it might be a good idea to test your FSH levels. Based upon your conclusion
that you have POF, I'm assuming you are no longer having periods. If this
is the case, you should see a gynecologist and discuss whether you are a candidate
for hormone replacement therapy and whether you should have a bone density test
as well.
Best regards,
Donnica Moore MD
President, DrDonnica.com
Created: 10/13/2002 - Donnica Moore, M.D.
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