Ovulatory problems
Ovulatory problems are a common cause of female infertility and occur due to hormonal imbalance. This imbalance may arise either within the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland or in the ovaries. Indications of an ovulatory problem include the absence of periods, irregular periods or short menstrual cycles.
Common ovulatory problems
- Amenorrhea – the absence of menstrual periods.
- Anovulation – failure of the ovary to release an oocyte (egg)
- Hyperprolactinemia – Excess levels of prolactin in the blood
- Luteal phase defect – where the lining of the uterus doesn’t develop properly due to insufficient levels of Progestrone
Causes of ovulatory problems
Common causes of these problems include stress, excess weight loss or weight gain, excessive production of prolactin (the hormone that stimulates milk production in the breasts) and polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Treatment for ovulatory problems
Most ovulation problems can be treated with lifestyle changes or simple fertility drugs. Find out more about fertility treatments >
Suspect you have an ovulatory problem?
If you experience irregularities with your menstural cycle and have been trying to conceive for 12 months (or 6 months if you are over 35 years of age) you should consider booking an appointment with a fertility specialist.
Find out more about fertility tests.
