Anovulation in polycystic ovary syndrome
Anovulation in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome[edit | edit source]
Anovulation is a condition characterized by the absence of ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. It is a common feature of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. Anovulation in PCOS is a significant cause of infertility and can lead to other health issues such as menstrual irregularities and endometrial hyperplasia.
Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]
In PCOS, anovulation is primarily due to hormonal imbalances. Women with PCOS often have elevated levels of androgens, which are male hormones that are also present in females. This hormonal imbalance can disrupt the normal functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, leading to irregular or absent ovulation.
The ovaries in women with PCOS typically contain multiple small cysts, which are immature ovarian follicles. These follicles fail to mature and release an egg, resulting in anovulation. The exact cause of the hormonal imbalance in PCOS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Clinical Manifestations[edit | edit source]
Anovulation in PCOS can present with a variety of symptoms, including:
- Oligomenorrhea or amenorrhea (infrequent or absent menstrual periods)
- Hirsutism (excessive hair growth)
- Acne and oily skin
- Alopecia (hair thinning)
- Obesity or difficulty losing weight
- Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
The diagnosis of anovulation in PCOS is typically based on clinical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Key diagnostic criteria include:
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Elevated serum androgen levels
- Ultrasound findings of polycystic ovaries
The Rotterdam criteria are commonly used to diagnose PCOS, requiring the presence of at least two of the following three features: oligo- or anovulation, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
The management of anovulation in PCOS focuses on addressing the underlying hormonal imbalance and improving ovulatory function. Treatment options include:
- Lifestyle modifications: Weight loss through diet and exercise can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce androgen levels, promoting ovulation.
- Medications:
* Clomiphene citrate is often used to induce ovulation. * Metformin may be prescribed to improve insulin sensitivity. * Letrozole is another medication that can stimulate ovulation.
- Surgical options: In some cases, ovarian drilling may be considered to reduce androgen production and restore ovulation.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
With appropriate treatment, many women with anovulation due to PCOS can achieve regular ovulation and improve their chances of conception. However, ongoing management may be necessary to address other symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term complications such as cardiovascular disease and endometrial cancer.
Also see[edit | edit source]
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
- Infertility
- Menstrual Irregularities
- Endometrial Hyperplasia
- Hormonal Imbalance
{{This 'Reproductive system diseases' related article is a stub.}}
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