The Silent Transition: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Clinical Phenotypes and Quality of Life in Patients with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency at a Tertiary Care Center in Lahore

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54536/ajs.v1i1.6629

Keywords:

Amenorrhea, Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), Autoimmune Associations, Cross-Sectional Study, Hypergonadotropic Hypogonadism, Iatrogenic Causes, Idiopathic POI, Infertility, MENQOL (Menopause-Specific Quality of Life), POI, Premature Ovarian Insufficiencyt, Psychosocial Distress, Quality of Life

Abstract

Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) poses a significant challenge to reproductive health and psychological well-being, particularly in South Asian societies where fertility is highly valued. To evaluate the clinical presentation, etiological factors, and the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among women diagnosed with POI. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Fatima Memorial Hospital from October 1, 2023, to November 30, 2025. Seventy-two women meeting the ESHRE criteria for POI were enrolled. Data were collected via clinical examination and the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life (MENQOL) questionnaire. The mean age at diagnosis was 31.4±4.2 years. Primary amenorrhea was noted in 12% of cases, while 88% presented with secondary amenorrhea. Idiopathic causes remained most prevalent (68%). Notably, the psychosocial domain of the MENQOL scored the highest distress levels, correlating with the societal pressure regarding infertility. Early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary approach addressing both hormonal replacement and psychological counseling are imperative for managing POI in the local population. 

Author Biography

  • Aqsa Akram, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fatima Memorial Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan

    My name is Dr. Aqsa Akram, and I am a triple-board–certified Obstetrician and Gynaecologist (MRCOG-UK, FACOG-USA, FCPS-Pakistan) with a strong academic foundation built on 14 Gold Medals during my MBBS and more than five years of progressive clinical experience. I currently serve as a Senior Registrar in Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Fatima Memorial Teaching Hospital, Lahore, where I lead high-risk obstetric care, advanced gynaecological procedures, and labour ward operations.
    Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to delivering evidence-based, compassionate, and safe women’s healthcare. I have managed thousands of obstetric cases, supervised junior clinicians, and played a central role in improving labour ward protocols—contributing to reductions in severe maternal morbidity, unnecessary primary Caesarean sections, and delays in emergency surgical response times. My clinical experience ranges from complex obstetric emergencies to minimally invasive gynaecological surgery, including laparoscopic cystectomy, ectopic pregnancy management, hysterectomy, and urogynaecological procedures.
    I have always believed that a strong clinician must also be a lifelong learner. With this philosophy, I have completed more than 150 international courses, 300+ CME hours, and specialized training from leading global institutions including RCOG (UK), ACOG (USA), Stanford University, Brown University, the University of Tasmania, and the United Nations. This extensive exposure has strengthened my understanding of international standards in maternal safety, surgical excellence, and patient-centred care.
    Research and academic development hold a central place in my professional identity. I am the single author of multiple published research articles in international journals, covering themes such as maternal mental health, pre-eclampsia biomarkers, AI-based adnexal mass triage, neuro-inflammation in endometriosis, and tele-CBT for tokophobia. I have presented my work at national and international conferences and continue to expand my contributions in perinatal outcomes, maternal morbidity, and innovative models of women’s healthcare.
    I am passionate about teaching, mentoring, and shaping the next generation of clinicians. Over the years, I have supervised more than 50 postgraduate trainees and house officers, conducted weekly academic sessions, organized mock examinations, and contributed to curriculum-aligned training modules. I believe in building teams that are not only clinically sound but also empathetic and patient-centred.

References

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AJS, E-Palli publishers

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Published

2026-04-06

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026): American Journal of Surgery

Section

Research Articles

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Copyright (c) 2026 Aqsa Akram (Author)

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

How to Cite

Akram, A. . (2026). The Silent Transition: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Clinical Phenotypes and Quality of Life in Patients with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency at a Tertiary Care Center in Lahore. American Journal of Surgery, 1(1), 1-3. https://doi.org/10.54536/ajs.v1i1.6629