Ovulation is an essential step for a pregnancy to occur naturally. It usually takes place around the middle of the menstrual cycle, when one of the ovaries releases an egg. However, in some cycles, the egg is not released, resulting in what is known as an anovulatory cycle.
Experiencing an anovulatory cycle occasionally is normal, particularly during certain stages of a woman’s reproductive life. However, when the absence of ovulation occurs frequently, it can reduce the chances of becoming pregnant. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a specialist to identify the cause and assess whether there is any underlying condition requiring treatment.
What is an anovulatory cycle?
An anovulatory cycle is one in which an egg is not released during the menstrual cycle. Even so, bleeding similar to a period may occur, even though ovulation has not taken place. For this reason, some women may experience anovulatory cycles without realising it.
Is it normal not to ovulate every month?
Throughout a woman’s reproductive life, it is normal to occasionally experience a cycle without ovulation. This is common during adolescence, in the years leading up to menopause, or during periods of significant hormonal changes.
However, outside of these periods, if anovulatory cycles occur frequently or if there is difficulty in achieving pregnancy after a reasonable period of trying, it is advisable to investigate the cause.
Why might cycles without ovulation occur?
Ovulation depends on the balance between different hormones that regulate ovarian function. When this mechanism is disrupted, anovulatory cycles may occur.
Among the most common causes are:
- Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS).
- Thyroid dysfunction.
- Elevated prolactin levels.
- Decreased ovarian reserve.
- Abnormalities in the hormonal axis that regulates reproductive function.
Furthermore, factors such as significant weight changes, very intense physical exercise, prolonged stress or certain medical treatments can also interfere with ovulation.
How is an anovulatory cycle diagnosed?
The assessment begins with a comprehensive clinical evaluation and a review of the patient’s medical and gynaecological history.
Subsequently, the specialist may request various tests to confirm whether ovulation is occurring and to determine the possible cause of its absence.
Among the most common tests are hormone analysis and transvaginal ultrasound, which allow for the assessment of ovarian reserve, follicular development and other aspects related to fertility.
Depending on each patient’s individual circumstances, it may be necessary to supplement the assessment with further tests.
What options are available if ovulation is not occurring?
Treatment will always depend on the cause of the lack of ovulation.
In some cases, addressing the root cause of the problem may be sufficient to restore spontaneous ovulation. In others, it may be necessary to use treatments that stimulate follicular development and promote the release of the egg.
At Barcelona IVF, we carry out a personalised assessment of ovulation and fertility to identify the cause of each situation and offer the treatment best suited to each patient’s needs.
