Which term refers to cessation of ovarian function before age 40?

• A. Infertility
• B. Menopause
• C. Premature syndrome
• D. Oligomenorrhea

Answer: (C)

Cessation of ovarian function before age 40 is described as premature menopause, also known as premature ovarian insufficiency. This means the ovaries stop producing eggs and estrogen earlier than the typical age, leading to the end of menstrual cycles and infertility much sooner than normal. It’s more specific than simply having infrequent periods (oligomenorrhea) or infertility on its own, and it’s distinct from menopause that occurs at the usual age. In this list, the phrase used to capture that early, menopausal-like change is premature syndrome, which is how the item labels this early onset condition. In clinical terms you’ll also see the precise labels premature menopause or premature ovarian failure/insufficiency.