Infertility: Problems With Ovulation

It can be difficult and complicated to find out the cause of Reference ovulation Opens New Window problems. Possible causes may include:

• Hormonal imbalances. Most women with ovulation problems have hormonal imbalances. An example of a condition that causes a hormone imbalance is Reference polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) Opens New Window.^{Reference 1} Other ovulation problems can originate in the Reference ovaries Opens New Window, or in the Reference pituitary gland Opens New Window and Reference hypothalamus Opens New Window, which produce hormones that regulate the Reference menstrual cycle Opens New Window. These hormones are vital to normal ovulation.
• Structural problems. Abnormalities in the structure of the ovaries (such as Reference ovarian cysts Opens New Window) or structural problems in other reproductive organs can cause changes in a woman's ovulation schedule.
• General medical problems. Medical problems that affect the Reference metabolism Opens New Window (such as Reference thyroid Opens New Window problems), serious illness, emotional stress, overweight and low weight, or excessive exercise can affect a woman's ovulation schedule.
• Cancer treatment. Exposure to certain kinds of chemotherapy or radiation can damage the egg supply in the ovaries.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.