Episode 13: Diagnosed at 15: Growing Up With Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)

What happens when menopause-like symptoms begin at 13 — and a life-changing diagnosis arrives at 15?

In this deeply honest episode of Premature Me Cast, Nina is joined by Jess, who was diagnosed with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) as a teenager. Jess shares what it was really like navigating hot flushes, brain fog, weight changes, and identity confusion while still at school, and how those early experiences shaped her adult life.

Together, Nina and Jess explore the emotional impact of early diagnosis, the gaps in long-term medical follow-up for POI, the realities of hormone replacement therapy, and the importance of self-advocacy as you get older. Jess also opens up about fertility grief, relationships, body image, and how building community through Instagram helped her heal and help others.

This episode is raw, validating, and essential listening for anyone living with POI, early menopause, or supporting someone who is.

• Being diagnosed with POI at just 15 years old

• Early symptoms that were missed or mislabelled at school

• Hot flushes, brain fog, fatigue, and weight gain in adolescence

• Misdiagnosis, delayed recognition, and finally being heard

• How POI affects identity, confidence, and emotional development

• Why counselling and aftercare should be standard after diagnosis

• The reality of navigating HRT over many years

• NHS limitations vs private care for POI

• Bone health, DEXA scans, and long-term risks

• Self-advocacy in your 20s and 30s

• Fertility grief, friendships, and baby milestones

• Using movement, sleep, nutrition, and routine to protect health

• Why it’s okay to not be okay — and to feel anger as well as gratitude

• Finding community through Instagram and advocacy work

• What’s next for Jess, including her upcoming menopause retreat

You can find Jess on Instagram at:
@jesslivingwithpoi

Nina: @soullaunndry_womenshealth

Dr Nikki: @femalehealthdoc

Kate: @fertility_menopause_support

Dr Siobhan: @mylifeonpausepoi

Don't forget to follow us! @theprematuremenocast