Ovulation is the release of an egg from the ovary each month—a key part of the menstrual cycle and an essential step for natural conception.
When ovulation doesn’t occur regularly—or at all—it’s known as an ovulation disorder, one of the most common causes of female infertility.
Let’s take a closer look at the major types of ovulation disorders and how they impact fertility.
1. Hypothalamic Dysfunction
Your brain plays a vital role in regulating ovulation. The hypothalamus, a part of the brain, controls the release of hormones that stimulate the ovaries. When it doesn’t function properly, ovulation may become irregular or stop entirely.
This dysfunction can result from:
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid slows down hormone production, affecting ovulation.
- Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid disrupts hormonal balance and menstrual cycles.
Both conditions can cause menstrual irregularities, fatigue, weight changes, and fertility problems.
2. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is one of the most common causes of ovulation disorders. It is a hormonal imbalance that leads to irregular or absent ovulation.
Typical symptoms of PCOS include:
- Irregular periods
- Excess facial/body hair (hirsutism)
- Acne or oily skin
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Women with PCOS often have high levels of androgens (male hormones), which interfere with normal ovulatory cycles.
3. Premature Ovarian Failure
Also called primary ovarian insufficiency, this condition occurs when the ovaries stop functioning properly before the age of 40.
It leads to:
- Irregular or absent periods
- Low estrogen levels
- Early menopause symptoms such as hot flashes or night sweats
Premature ovarian failure may be caused by genetic factors, autoimmune conditions, or treatments like chemotherapy. It often results in infertility, though in some cases, spontaneous ovulation can still occur.
4. Elevated Prolactin Levels
Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. While its main role is to stimulate breast milk production, excess prolactin (hyperprolactinemia) can disrupt the menstrual cycle and prevent ovulation.
Causes of high prolactin levels include:
- Certain medications
- Thyroid disorders
- Pituitary gland tumors (usually benign)
Women may notice milky discharge from the breasts (when not breastfeeding), irregular periods, or infertility.
Final Thoughts
Ovulation disorders are a leading cause of difficulty in conceiving, but the good news is that they are often treatable. With proper diagnosis through blood tests, ultrasound, and hormone evaluations, many women go on to conceive successfully.
Struggling with irregular cycles or unexplained infertility?
Consult with our fertility experts to diagnose and treat ovulation issues—and take the next step toward your pregnancy goals.