While there are many hormonal “abnormalities” that can lead to ovulatory disorders, the specialists at RCC understand how to properly diagnose and treat them.
One of the most common causes of female infertility is ovulatory disorder, which include irregular ovulation or no ovulation. No ovulation is usually associated with complete lack of menstruation unless medications such as Provera or Prometrium are given.
Overview
Disruptions of any of the ovulation processes can lead to ovulatory disorders. For example, patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) often have chronically elevated levels of androgens that prevent successful ovulation. Also, women of advancing age may experience reduced ovarian reserve (fewer viable eggs that can fertilize and develop normally) leading to anovulation.
Causes of Ovulation Disorders
Hyperprolactinemia
Chronically elevated levels of prolactin
Excessive Exercise or Stress
Severely Underweight or Obese
Abnormal Levels of Thyroid Hormones
Treatment Options
Fortunately, ovulation-inducing and regulating products are available for most of these conditions. Clomid is usually the “first line” ovulation induction agent that works by competing with estrogen receptors at the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus perceives lower estrogen levels due to the block and increases FSH production.
Injectable follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates the follicles directly to cause their recruitment and support their development. Other specific treatments include Parlodel and Dostinex for hyperprolactinemia and metformin for hyperinsulinemic PCOS patients.
In most cases, ovulation can be induced or regulated. Exceptions include women who have a very low ovarian reserve, congenital abnormalities of the ovaries, ovarian damage from chemotherapy or radiation cancer treatments, premature menopause, or other specific conditions. Donor egg may be the only option for some of these women.
