What is the POISE trial?
When menopause occurs in women under the age of 40, it is termed Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI). This condition affects at least 1 in every 100 women. The cause is often unknown, but may be due to genetic conditions such as Turner’s Syndrome, immune disorders, treatments for cancer, or surgery involving the ovaries. The main symptom is absent or very irregular periods. Many women get other menopause symptoms such as hot flushes and sweats and the ability to get pregnant naturally is greatly reduced. The impacts of symptoms and infertility is distressing.
In the long term, women with POI are at higher risk of bone thinning (osteoporosis), fractures, heart disease and memory problems compared to women who experience menopause at the typical age , around 51 years.
Treatments involve taking hormones, either in the form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or the combined oral contraceptive pill (COC). Both have advantages and disadvantages, and healthcare professionals are uncertain which is best for the relief of symptoms and also for reducing the long-term risks associated with POI.
This study is needed so that we can find out what is the most effective hormone treatment for women with POI in the short and long term to reduce menopause side effects and longer term health issues.
Information for women wishing to join the study
Who is organising and funding this study?
The University College London Trust are the sponsor of this study. The study is coordinated by the Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit.
The study is funded by the research arm of the NHS, the National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment (NIHR HTA) Programme.
The POISE team includes doctors, health economists, and clinical trial experts. See full details of our team here.
The study is supported by the Daisy Network, a charity dedicated to providing information and support to women diagnosed with POI, and The Turner Syndrome Support Society, a national charity caring for the needs of those with Turners Syndrome throughout the UK.
Further information for clinicians:
Information for Health Care Professionals