Ovulation is the monthly production and release of a mature oocyte (egg) from the ovary. Any disruption in this process may result in infertility. Problems with ovulation are usually seen in women who do not have regular menstrual cycles, although this can occur even in women with normal cycles. Testing can be performed to determine if ovulation is occurring.
A patient history of excessive exercise, weight changes, substance use, hair and skin changes, or breast discharge may prompt testing for thyroid or prolactin disorders, or androgen (male hormone) excess disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Treatment is geared to the cause of the ovulation disorder. For example, medical treatment of thyroid or prolactin disorders, decreasing insulin, or normalizing weight and lifestyle may increase the probability of pregnancy.
Other approaches include fertility pills or shots to stimulate the ovary to grow and release an egg.
A patient history of excessive exercise, weight changes, substance use, hair and skin changes, or breast discharge may prompt testing for thyroid or prolactin disorders, or androgen (male hormone) excess disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Treatment is geared to the cause of the ovulation disorder. For example, medical treatment of thyroid or prolactin disorders, decreasing insulin, or normalizing weight and lifestyle may increase the probability of pregnancy.
Other approaches include fertility pills or shots to stimulate the ovary to grow and release an egg.
