Pregnancy
Dr. Robert Rebar's POF FAQ

17. Will I ever be able to conceive with my own eggs?

I don't know if you will be ever to have a child with your own eggs. In fact, I don't know if you have any eggs remaining. Estrogen protects you from the effects of estrogen deficiency -- that is all. We can't now predict who will conceive and who will not and it does not seem to matter if you are taking estrogen or not. Discuss these issues with your doctor. I would urge you to continue the estrogen -- the benefits far outweigh the risks.

18. Is it possible that I may have some ovarian function left?

Yes, I do think it possible that you might have a few eggs left. No one knows, however, how to induce ovulation reliably. I personally have seen one woman begin to ovulate-- and do so for about 7-8 months-- after 8 years of amenorrhea and POF. Like you, there was no explanation for her disorder. We just don't understand very much about this disorder. We cannot predict when ovulation will occur but menses certainly suggest that the ovary is still making some estrogen and that at least a few eggs must still be present. I certainly would discuss this with your physician.

19. My MD said nothing will work except donor eggs. Is there anything I can do to increase my chances of getting pregnant?

I wish we could provide you with helpful information but we just can't. Numbers consistent with POF do not indicate that pregnancy is absolutely impossible, but they do indicate that the chances are quite low -- no more than 6-8%. Your doctor is correct in saying that donor eggs provide the best opportunity for pregnancy. Donor egg is the most reliable way today of achieving a pregnancy. Because we do not now have the ability to effectively induce ovulation in women with POF, we recommend donor eggs but do point out that pregnancy is a rare but real possibility. You should not be afraid to take estrogen. In people like you taking estrogen does not seem to prevent pregnancy. Failure to bleed in response to monthly progestin should indicate the need for a pregnancy test. Talk to your doctor -- and good luck.

20. What is the cost of freezing an egg?

Costs vary widely depending on the program and the region of the country. Technically doctors can't discuss their prices with each other because that might constitute price fixing.