Anovulation is a condition where a woman’s ovaries do not release eggs during their regular menstrual cycle. Without the release of eggs by the ovary, there is no chance of fertilization, making conception impossible. “A common cause of infertility, anovulation happens in 1 in 10 women, yet it is the reason for infertility in almost 25% of cases,” says the leading gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri.
Is anovulation permanent? Do women suffering from Anovulation lose the ability to conceive forever? What causes it, and how is it treated? We have asked the gynaecologist and infertility specialist in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri, and all the frequently asked questions. Read on to know her answers:
What happens in Anovulation?
A regular menstrual cycle begins after the uterus sheds its lining. Typically lasting for 28 days, various hormonal fluctuations occur. In chronic cases, the egg matures in the ovaries for 14 days, and around the 14th day, luteinizing hormone surges to trigger the release of the egg. The egg then moves into the fallopian tube for fertilization.
However, in cases of Anovulation, the hormonal changes that lead to the release of eggs are disrupted. Consequently, the ovaries hold back and do not release the egg, making conception impossible.
What causes Anovulation?
The hormonal disruption that triggers Anovulation can result from systemic, internal, and external factors. As a result, Anovulation impacts a large number of people. “Anovulation is a common cause of infertility in women. Every year, we treat hundreds of cases at our facility in Mumbai,” says the best obstetrician in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri. According to her, here are the most common causes of hormonal disruption that triggers Anovulation in women:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder that elevates androgens, causes insulin resistance and disrupts the release of Luteinizing Hormone, leading to Anovulation.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis (HPA) Dysfunction: The HPA system regulates the system that controls the menstrual cycle in women. Its dysfunction can throw a spanner into the menstrual health of women, causing a hormonal imbalance that ultimately leads to Anovulation.
Stress: Not just hormonal conditions, external factors like intense stress may also lead to Anovulation. Excessive stress increases the release of cortisol, which suppresses ovulation.
Excessive Exercise: Surprisingly, excessive intensive exercise may also disturb hormonal balance in women, leading to Anovulation.
In addition to the above, certain medications, chemotherapy drugs, and birth control pills can also induce Anovulation in women.
Anovulation Treatment: Is Anovulation Permanent? How is it treated?
Anovulation can be temporary or permanent based on the causes and the available treatments. In cases like stress, weight fluctuations, and illness, Anovulation is usually temporary, and the patient may return to normal over time. However, in cases like PCOS and specific hormone imbalances, Anovulation can be persistent and even permanent if the proper treatment is not available.
Anovulation can be treated with various treatment options based on its specific cause. Some of the treatment options currently available include surgery for structural issues, hormonal therapy to balance hormones and induce ovulation, lifestyle changes, and medications. In some cases, Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) may also be used to induce ovulation for conception.
In many cases, women overlook anovulation symptoms, thinking that it will sort itself out. But depending on the cause of Anovulation, the symptoms may persist and may cause severe complications like infertility for couples looking to conceive. So it is always advised to consult with your healthcare professional at the first sign of trouble,” says an infertility specialist in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri. If you are in Mumbai and are experiencing Anovulation, you can consult with Dr. Mantri here.