I completed my medical training at the University of Amsterdam and subsequently earned my PhD at Utrecht University. During my doctoral research, I studied the genetic and physical characteristics of premature ovarian insufficiency and ovarian ageing, deepening my expertise in early menopause.
As a gynaecologist, I have specialised in fertility care, hormonal care during the perimenopause and menopause, and minimally invasive surgeries, such as laparoscopic procedures. In my practice, I see many women experiencing hormonal issues at various stages of life.
I work as a gynaecologist at Dijklander Hospital, where I also serve as the medical manager of the IVF programme. Additionally, I am involved as an external medical advisor for SeeMe-nopause.
In this role, I aim to ensure that women going through menopause have access to reliable information, appropriate guidance, and treatments tailored to their symptoms and personal circumstances. I place great importance on a patient-centred and empathetic approach. My goal is for women to feel well-informed and empowered to make decisions about their health.
Medical training, University of Amsterdam / Imperial College London
Gynaecology training at St Elisabeth Hospital, UMC Utrecht, and St Antonius Hospital
PhD research on premature ovarian insufficiency and ovarian ageing, Utrecht University
Registered in the subspecialist register for reproductive medicine and endocrinology
Medical Manager IVF, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Dijklander Hospital
External Medical Advisor, SeeMe-nopause
Scientific research and publications
Dr Erik Knauff is the author and co-author of several international, peer-reviewed scientific publications. His research focuses on early menopause, ovarian function and ageing, PMOS (formerly known as PCOS), and hormonal processes related to fertility.
Selection of publications
Research on genetic factors in premature ovarian insufficiency (formerly known as POF)
Research on similarities between hereditary and non-hereditary forms of early menopause
Research on female reproductive ageing
View all scientific publications by Dr Erik Knauff.
Professional memberships
Federation of Medical Specialists
Dutch Society of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Dutch Menopause Society (former board member)
International Menopause Society
European Menopause and Andropause Society
European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology
View Dr Erik Knauff's professional profile on LinkedIn.
Menopause is a natural stage of life, but that doesn’t mean women should simply endure their menopausal symptoms. Hormonal changes can impact various aspects of health, including sleep, mood, bones, heart, and metabolism.
This stage of life often doesn’t receive the attention it warrants. That’s why I believe it is crucial for women to have access to clear, evidence-based information rooted in the latest scientific research. With the right guidance and treatment, there is often more that can be done than many women realise. Menopause can also serve as an opportunity to consciously prioritise health, both in the short and long term.
Online care can help reduce barriers and make specialist knowledge more accessible, even beyond the confines of hospitals. This enables women to educate themselves at their own pace and make more informed decisions about their health. For me, it is vital that every woman experiencing menopause has access to trustworthy information and appropriate care.
As a medical advisor, I contribute to the ongoing development of SeeMe-nopause. I share the latest scientific findings, review the medical content on the platform, and provide advice on treatment and support options. Furthermore, I act as a medical content advisor to our physicians. In this way, I help ensure that women can access medically accurate and user-friendly information on SeeMe-nopause.
With the right support, menopause can be a valuable opportunity to invest more intentionally than ever in your health and well-being.
Effective menopause care doesn’t just address individual symptoms but also takes into account a person’s overall health, medical history, and personal preferences. Medication, nutrition, and lifestyle need not be in conflict with one another; in fact, they can work hand in hand.
Hormone therapy can provide significant relief for many women. Whether this treatment is suitable depends on factors such as symptoms, medical history, and personal preferences. When hormone therapy is not desired or appropriate, there are also effective non-hormonal treatments available to ease certain menopausal symptoms. These options are not yet widely recognised.
Nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and emotional well-being form a crucial foundation for health during menopause and can play a role in managing menopausal symptoms. Supplements can sometimes be helpful in cases of deficiencies, for instance, due to a medical condition or when someone’s diet lacks certain nutrients. Where necessary, lifestyle interventions can be combined with hormonal or non-hormonal treatments.
Start with the basics, build from there, and only use what is truly necessary.
What is Dr Erik Knauff specialised in?
Dr Erik Knauff is a gynaecologist specialising in hormonal issues related to fertility, perimenopause, and menopause. He has extensive knowledge of early menopause, hormone therapy, and fertility care.
What experience does Dr Erik Knauff have with early menopause?
Dr Knauff earned his PhD through research on early menopause and ovarian ageing. As a result, he possesses significant scientific expertise on the early decline in ovarian function and its potential implications for health and fertility.
What is premature ovarian insufficiency?
Premature ovarian insufficiency, abbreviated as POI, occurs when the ovaries function less effectively before the age of 40. This can cause menstrual cycles to become irregular or stop altogether. POI is often associated with early menopause but is not entirely the same: ovarian function in POI can fluctuate.
Can I book an online consultation with Dr Erik Knauff?
No. Dr Knauff does not conduct online consultations through SeeMe-nopause. As a medical advisor, he contributes to the platform's development, shares current scientific insights, and reviews medical information.
What is Dr Erik Knauff's approach to treating menopause symptoms?
According to Dr Knauff, treatment should align with a woman's symptoms, health, and preferences. Hormone therapy or other medications may be an option. Additionally, nutrition, exercise, sleep, and emotional well-being can be part of the approach.
Does Dr Erik Knauff have scientific publications?
Yes. Dr Knauff is the author and co-author of more than twelve peer-reviewed scientific publications. His research focuses on topics such as early menopause, ovarian function and ageing, PCOS, and hormonal processes related to fertility. A complete list can be found on PubMed.