Common Ovulation Problems and Way Forward
You know how ovulation works. In this article we discuss common ovulation problems, the way forward and what is the best treatment options available. An egg is released from the ovary so that it can be fertilized. Without the release of an egg, there is no chance of getting pregnant. Ovulation occurs during a small window of time at some point during a woman’s menstrual cycle, depending on the length of the cycle. Healthy women with regular cycles can predict ovulation and even feel symptoms such as cramping and increased body temperature. Unfortunately, you seem to be excluded from the “healthy women” category.
Table of Contents
1. Why Pregnancy is Difficult for Some Women
For many women, getting pregnant is not as easy as paying attention to an ovulation calendar. Infertility is a very difficult condition for couples to deal with. Forty percent of infertile women have some sort of ovulatory dysfunction. When lack of ovulation occurs, the condition is called, anovulation. When a woman simply has irregular ovulation, the condition is called, oligovulation. Both are equally frustrating and concerning.
2. Ovulation Problem Common Reasons
Ovulation problems can stem from other medical conditions. The most common condition is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, which affects up to 8 percent of all women. Other conditions include:
- Weight problems including obesity or low body weight
- Exercising to extreme levels
- Premature Ovarian Failure in which the ovaries stop functioning as they should
- Advanced maternal age
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Stress
3. Stress is a serious issue
Unfortunately, stress can be increased when couples are trying to have a child, thus making ovulation even less likely for a woman who is already having problems ovulating.
4. Ovulation Diagnosis
Ovulation problems can be diagnosed by a doctor who will ask you questions about your cycle and any other symptoms you may be experiencing. They may also take blood so they can test your progesterone levels. Levels are tested immediately following the time that you are supposed to be ovulating, since they tend to be higher than during other times in your cycle. A lack of progesterone during this time could mean that no ovulation has occurred. Your doctor may also perform an ultrasound to look for cysts.
5. Ovulation Treatment
Treating ovulation dysfunction can be easy but depends on the underlying cause. Sometimes a change in lifestyle (responding better to stress) or changing your diet can get ovulation back on track. When those options fail, medication may be prescribed. One of the most common infertility medications is Clomid. It not only triggers ovulation in 45 percent of anovulatory women but also results in a 45 percent chance of pregnancy within six months of treatment.
When ovulation dysfunction prevents couples from having a child, counseling or talking to other couples in the same situation may help. In vitro fertilization or even adoption, are common options, although expensive. Talking to someone should help you decide on the next steps to growing your family.
