OVARIAN FAILURE AND THE MENOPAUSE.

Long-term replacement therapy for ovarian deficiency or failure, including the menopause, has been widely debated. In the past, treatment, if indicated, was reassurance, sedation, and occasionally short-term estrogen therapy. Today, because of recent advances in steroid synthesis, the consequences of ovarian deficiency may be preventable.Ovarian function and failure are discussed, the apparent physiological renaissance of nine patients documented, and the methods of treatment detailed. Thirty-three patients, who took part in this program during the past two years, have continued treatment with enthusiasm, without major problems in management, and have shown evidence of improved physical and emotional well-being.Further unbiased long-term research, possibly using modern computer technique, is needed to decide between traditional and replacement therapy for the menopause.