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
