Introduction:
An NCBI study states that 11.8% of women in India in the reproductive age group face ovulation problems. It is a common issue that can be treated effectively if diagnosed early. If you are a woman under the age of 35, there is no serious cause for concern as this is the best time to get treated.
Types of Ovulation Problems:
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
- Hypothalamic dysfunction
- Primary ovarian insufficiency
- Hyperprolactinemia
Symptoms:
The most commonly found symptoms of ovulation problems in women are irregular menstrual cycles. This includes a menstrual cycle that is too long (35 days or longer) or a cycle that is too short (22 days or shorter). This means that ovulation is not taking place normally. There are usually no other signs or symptoms.
Causes:
The main cause of ovulation problems is hormonal imbalance. The release of the mature egg, the travel of the egg down the fallopian tube and implantation are all controlled by specific hormones. If either hormone is released in abnormal quantities, ovulation problems arise.
When to see a doctor:
If you are below 35 years of age and have a problem conceiving naturally, it is time to see a doctor. If you are above 35 years of age and have tried conceiving naturally for over 6 months, it is time to see a doctor. At any point in time, if you see the signs and symptoms mentioned above, it is time to see a doctor.
Risk factors:
- Age: As your age increases, the risk factor of ovulation problems increases.
- Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of ovulation problems, miscarriage and conception.
- Weight: Being overweight or obese poses a high risk for ovulation problems.
- Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption reduces fertility rates.
Prevention:
- Maintaining a normal Body Mass Index: Eat nutritious food and exercise regularly.
- Quit smoking: Tobacco has numerous side effects on the reproductive organs of the woman.
- Avoid alcohol: this will keep your fertility rates higher.
- Reduce stress: Mental and physical stress releases a lot of cortisol which results in hormonal imbalance.
Remedies/Treatment:
If you are having any signs and symptoms of ovulation problems, it is best to consult a physician. They will be able to diagnose and effectively treat the disorder. It is highly recommended not to blindly believe in home remedies and other alternative options as there are multiple ovulation problems with common symptoms. Doing this may further aggravate the issue. Consult a physician immediately.
Request an appointment at Apollo Fertility/Cradle in Varanasi
Call 1860-500-1066 to book an appointment
Conclusion:
Ovulation problems are very common considering our current lifestyle. it is also effectively treatable if diagnosed in time. Consult your doctor as soon as you see signs and symptoms so that you can be treated effectively without compromising on fertility.
Not all ovulation problems lead to infertility. If left undiagnosed and untreated, even simple ovulation problems can turn complex which might result in infertility.
Though not all STIs lead to infertility, PID or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease can affect the reproductive organs, leading to infertility. It is best to consult a physician to understand risk factors and the next steps.
If you are a woman under the age of 35 and have tried to conceive with unprotected sex for over a year, it is time to see a doctor. If you are over 35 years and have tried to conceive for over 6 months, it is time to see a fertility specialist.
The physician will prescribe diagnostic tests depending on your symptoms and risk factors. It usually begins with simple tests such as physical examination, urine and blood tests.
Depending on the type of ovulation problem and the genes associated with it, some ovulation problems can be genetically inherited. A family physician will consider your family medical history before diagnosing or treating your ovulation problems. There are various causes and risk factors to be considered before diagnosing and starting the treatment.
