Hormone supplementation for pubertal induction in girls

Pubertal induction in girls with ovarian insufficiency aims to mimic normal puberty, a highly complex process. Here we amalgamate the sparse global evidence and propose three options for pubertal induction regimens including oral ethinyloestradiol, and oral and transdermal 17ß- oestradiol. The introduction of progestogens is discussed and the transition to hormone supplementation for adult women. The merits and disadvantages of the different options are detailed. The available evidence indicates that transdermal 17ß-oestradiol has the most favourable efficacy, safety and cost profile but randomised controlled trials are urgently required to determine which regimen provides the best clinical outcomes.