It is common knowledge that in order to conceive, you must ovulate. When you start trying to conceive, you begin paying closer attention to your cycle. Your menstrual cycle is an indication of your ovulation. However, that may not always be the case.
A woman’s reproductive system ovulates every month. In certain situations, there may be something known as anovulation – or lack of ovulation in a menstrual cycle. In this case, you may still assume that the bleeding you’ve experienced was your monthly menstrual cycle. But if you have an anovulatory cycle, you technically haven’t had a period.
Causes of an Anovulatory Cycle
It is fairly common for women in her prime years to experience an anovulatory cycle. Most women do not even notice it as they may still seem to menstruate normally. In a regular cycle, the production of progesterone is stimulated by the release of an egg. It’s this hormone that helps a woman’s body maintain regular period. During an anovulatory cycle, the level of progesterone may be insufficient and can lead to heavy bleeding, which may be mistaken for a period.
Sudden changes to hormone levels can trigger anovulatory cycles. Other causes include:
- Too high or too low body weight
- Extreme exercise habits
- Unhealthy eating habits
- High stress levels
A woman who has periods every 24 to 35 days is likely to be ovulating normally.
Diagnosis & Treatment
When a woman has erratic or no periods, diagnosing anovulatory cycle is really simple. However, that’s not always the case with every woman. There are a few things your doctor can check to diagnose, which include:
- Progesterone levels of the woman
- Lining of her uterus
- The presence of certain antibodies in the blood
The doctor may also recommend an ultrasound to take a closer look at your uterus and ovaries. The results of these tests will help your doctor to suggest the best course of action for you.
If anovulatory cycles are being caused due to nutrition or lifestyle, treatment may include:
- Regulating eating habits
- Moderating physical activities
- Gaining or losing weight
Certain internal imbalances may be the reason for a woman experiencing anovulatory cycles. In this case, the doctor may prescribe fertility medications. These are designed to combat the causes of a woman’s infertility by ripening the follicles, increasing estrogen and helping the ovaries release an egg. In case of serious complications, such as a tumor, your doctor may advice surgery.
Those who experience anovulation will greatly benefit from these changes such as better nutrition, exercise, and stress relief. Try these for at least a few months and check whether your cycle has become consistent. If you need any help, talk to our doctors at KIMS Cuddles who will guide you through the necessary lifestyle changes.
*Information shared here is for general purpose Please take doctors’ advice before taking any decision.