Causes of Anovulation: Key Factors and Recommendations

Anovulation is a condition where ovulation does not occur, which is essential for conception. There are several reasons why ovulation may be absent, and today we will discuss the main factors that influence this process.

Lifestyle-Related Factors

• Excess body weight and obesity: These can lead to insulin resistance syndrome, elevated androgen levels, and blocked ovulation. A BMI over 25 indicates excess weight, and over 30 indicates obesity.
• Low body weight: When BMI is under 18.5, the body may enter energy-saving mode, reducing the production of hormones from the hypothalamus and pituitary, which can also block ovulation.
• Stress: Chronic stress can increase prolactin levels, which suppresses ovulation.
• Excessive physical activity: This can disrupt hormone production that affects ovulation, such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

Diseases That Affect Ovulation

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This is one of the most common conditions that can suppress ovulation.
• Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated prolactin levels can block ovulation.
• Thyroid diseases: Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyrotoxicosis can negatively impact reproductive health.
• Cushing's syndrome: These endocrine disorders can also lead to anovulation.

Medications That Can Suppress Ovulation

• Oral contraceptives: Combined oral contraceptives can block ovulation and prevent pregnancy.
• Progesterone: Progesterone-based medications can suppress ovulation, especially when used without medical indications.
• Antidepressants and chemotherapy: These medications can have side effects that impact hormonal balance and lead to anovulation.

Which Hormones Should Be Tested in Cases of Anovulation?

• LH (Luteinizing hormone): One of the key hormones for assessing ovulation.
• FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone): Important for ovarian reserve diagnosis.
• Prolactin: Elevated prolactin levels can suppress ovulation.
• TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone): For screening thyroid disorders.
• Progesterone: To confirm ovulation, progesterone should be tested 7-9 days before the expected period.
• Anti-Müllerian hormone: Shows ovarian reserve.
• Adrenal hormones: 17-hydroxyprogesterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) are important for excluding adrenal pathologies.

How to Treat Anovulation?

If you are experiencing anovulation, don't waste time self-diagnosing. Visit a doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Proper treatment will help restore reproductive health and increase your chances of conception.

Take care of your health and undergo regular check-ups.

Learn the main causes of anovulation, including hormonal disorders, diseases, and lifestyle factors. Find out how to diagnose and treat this issue.