Published by izzie on 02 Sep 2008
No Ovulation
Anovulation is an absence of ovulation when it would be commonly anticipated. Anovulation is a condition that influences between 6% and 15% of all women of childbearing age.
There are a number of factors which can cause anovulation such as; hormonal problems, thyroid problems, pituitary problems and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia & obesity can cause anovulation. Stress such as work pressures or a death in the family can also disrupt the cycle.
An imbalance of hormones can sometimes result in the loss of menstruation and ovulation. Chronic anovulation can also cause partial or complete infertility. Many women who suffer from anovulation find it difficult to become pregnant. The most common anovulation symptom is an lengthened menstrual cycle. Treatments for anovulation range from non-invasive systems such as drug therapy. Fertility drugs such as clomid and pergonal are frequently used to treat anovulation.
Once any other conditions are ruled out, your doctor may want to prescribe fertility drugs that can help your body release the eggs during ovulation. These medications help to block the effects of estrogen in a woman’s body. Aproximately eighty percent of women ovulate after taking fertility medication and half become pregnant within six months.
There is an increased incidence of twins and multiple births with these fertility drugs - up to ten percent of women who take fertility medication will have multiple births (as opposed to the normal rate of one percent).