Ovulation and infertility
Ovulation and Infertility
Failed ovulation is the single most common cause of
infertility in women. More than 40% of infertile women have an ovulatory
problem. The normal ovarian cycle is so complex that even small deviations
may not interrupt and thus prevent ovulation. However, with modern
treatments, there are better conditions for pregnancy will eventually be
achieved in these women.
Before considering the reasons for dysfunction or failure of ovulation, it
is important to review the physiology of normal ovarian cycle.
The normal cycle is under the control of anterior pituitary hormones, FSH (follicle
stimulating hormone / follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinising
hormone/ Luteinizing hormone). The secretion of these hormones is
influenced by GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone / gonadotropin-releasing
hormone) from the hypothalamus, and the circulating levels of estrogen and
progesterone.
A summary of the main stages of the ovarian cycle is shown below and is
discussed in detail in Understanding Infertility.
Ovulatory disorders are most often caused by a deficiency of hormones
controllers. However, problems can also arise if the ovaries themselves are
resistant to normal levels of hormones. Moreover, absent ovaries,
damaged or diseased will prevent ovulation.
Last updated: 10/02/2012
