Ovulatory Disorders

What Are Ovulation Disorders?

Usually in women of reproductive age group, one egg is released from an ovary every month. In 25% of sub-fertile women, this does not occur due to various reasons, such as:

Premature Ovarian Failure

This condition occurs when the ovaries stop functioning before the woman is 40. Consequently, the ovaries don’t produce the expected amounts of estrogen nor release eggs regularly. This condition is called premature ovarian failure and is a cause of infertility.

Hypothyroidism or Hyperthyroidism

Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are leading causes of female infertility as they affect ovulation. Women suffering from either condition cannot release one egg every month during menstruation or not at all. This makes conception difficult.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is one of the most common endocrinal (hormone-related) disorders affecting women. It presents in wide variety of ways. Though usually the patients are obese with irregular periods and elevated serum insulin and androgen levels, they have a classical looking appearance on ultrasonography. They generally do not ovulate regularly hence they often find it difficult to conceive.

Hormone Prolactin

Excessive production of prolactin reduces estrogen production and disrupts regular ovulation. This results in infertility, which has a direct bearing on testosterone levels.

Symptoms of Ovulatory Disorders

The No. 1 infertility symptom is the inability to conceive. This is caused by:

• A menstrual cycle that goes on for 35 days or longer
• A menstrual cycle that’s 21 days or less
• An irregular menstrual cycle or not at all
• Fibroids or polyps in the uterus
• Damage or blocking of the fallopian tubes due to pelvic inflammatory disease
• Endometriosis
• The absence of menstruation coupled with poorly controlled diabetes, lupus, and celiac disease

What Are the Tests to Diagnose Ovulation Disorders & PCOS?

Usually, blood tests (hormones) and ultrasound scans are done to test for ovulation disorders.

Treatment for Ovulatory Disorders

Treatments for this condition help in improving monthly ovulation. Some treatments are:

Fertility Medication

Oral fertility medication helps stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs regularly. If this doesn’t work, injectable fertility medication is given under a doctor’s supervision.

Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy

Women who suffer from hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can use thyroxine (T4) to reach a healthy thyroid range. Oral medication is given under a doctor’s supervision.

Lifestyle Changes

Apart from taking medication, doctors suggest that patients make some lifestyle changes, such as:

• Quit smoking.
• Reduce alcohol intake.
• Reduce caffeine intake.
• Don’t overexercise.

Ways to Encourage Female Fertility

To stimulate fertility, make these changes in your life:

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Prevent sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea.
• Don’t work night shifts.
• Use relaxation techniques to cope with stress.
• Stay away from dry cleaning solvents, pesticides, etc.