Research
This page explores some of the most up to date research in the field of POI and Early Menopause.
POISE
What is the study about?
The POISE trial aims to find out what is the most effective hormone treatment for women with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), in both the short and long-term. The cause of POI is often unknown, but in some women, it may be caused by genetic conditions such as Turner's syndrome, as well as immune disorders, treatments for cancer, or surgery involving the ovaries.
Who can take part in the study?
Women aged ≥18 years to ≤ 40 years at time of randomisation and have a diagnosis of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI)
What is being tested in the study?
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Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
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Combined oral contraceptive pill (COC)
What is this being compared to?
See above – both offered as standard treatment on the NHS.
What are we trying to find out?
The primary outcome is the absolute bone mineral density (BMD)(g/cm) at 2 years from the date of randomisation, assessed by a standard dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEVA) scan, of the lumbar spine.
POI and The Brain – Research Study with King’s College London
Oestrogen and progesterone protect the brain – when these hormones change early, as in POI, this might produce symptoms like brain fog and low mood, and may also impact brain health over time. 80% of women felt they have not received sufficient medical information on POI and brain health.
155 women responded to the survey. 91% of women were currently on hormonal treatment and were diagnosed 4-6 years ago. See the results below
Brain structural alterations in young women with premature ovarian insufficiency: Implications for dementia risk
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We evaluated brain structural changes in participants with idiopathic premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).
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The observed brain alterations in POI participants closely resemble those seen in early dementia, including regions specifically associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD).
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These findings highlight the critical need for early interventions to reduce the long‐term risks of cognitive impairment and dementia in women with POI.
The University of Edinburgh- The role of wild swimming in POI
There has been much research conducted on wild swimming and the menopause. However, there is a research gap for exploring how wild swimming can help young women experiencing menopausal symptoms from POI. This research looks to investigate how wild swimming has helped women navigate the diagnosis, symptoms, and the social and personal impact of this life-changing condition.
