What is an ovulatory disorder?

If you are experiencing fertility challenges, it can be worrying, especially if you wish to start or expand your family. Sometimes you may not even realise you have fertility issues until you discuss them with your doctor.  

Several women experience ovulatory disorders, which are an important cause of female infertility. These disorders disrupt the regular release of an egg from the ovaries during a woman’s menstrual cycle, which is essential for conceiving.

What are the symptoms?

Depending on the type of ovulatory disorder you have, symptoms may vary.  However, some common symptoms include:

- Irregular periods – the most common symptom is absent or irregular periods.

- Mood changes – Feelings of anxiety or significant mood swings may also be a symptom.  

- Weight changes – Unexplained weight gain or loss can be another sign of an underlying issue related to hormonal imbalance.

- Infertility – Difficulty in becoming pregnant can be an indicator of an ovulatory disorder.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should contact your general practitioner.

How are ovulatory disorders treated?

There are treatments available to regulate ovulation and potentially improve fertility. It is important to know that the right treatment will depend on your specific condition and this will be discussed with your doctor or fertility clinic.

Here are some common treatment methods:

Lifestyle changes – Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet can positively impact ovulation and fertility. Consuming the right nutrients, such as folate, vitamin D, iron and zinc, can play a crucial role in improving fertility. Additionally, incorporating regular exercise in your routine and managing stress can also help improve your overall wellbeing.

Fertility medication – Depending on the type of ovulatory disorder you have, your doctor may prescribe medication. Commonly prescribed medications include hormone replacement therapy (HRT), metformin, clomiphene, and letrozole.

Surgical procedures –In cases of PCOS, laparoscopic ovarian drilling may be offered to help regulate the menstrual cycle and increase ovulation. This is a surgical procedure conducted via keyhole surgery on your tummy under general anaesthetic.

Fertility treatment – If you are having difficulty conceiving due to ovulation disorders, fertility treatments, including in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI), can be viable options.

IVF doesn’t rely on the natural ovulation process. In this treatment, medication is used to stimulate egg growth, and the eggs are collected and fertilised with sperm. The fertilised eggs develop into embryos and the healthiest one is transferred into the womb.

Reviewed by Justin Chu, Medical Director at TFP Oxford Fertility.