Ovulatory dysfunction
DEFINITION
- Abnormal, irregular or absent ovulation.
- Common in the extremes of reproductive life1
- Causes may include polycystic ovary syndrome, obesity, anorexia, mental stress, extreme exercise1,2
SYMPTOMS
- Menstruation is often unpredictable and irregular (presentation ranging from amenorrhea and very light bleeding to extremely heavy bleeding episodes)1,2,3
DIAGNOSIS
- Medical history of irregular menses4
- Structural causes can be excluded by imaging and/or histopathological assessments1
TREATMENT2,5
- Hormonal treatment (combined oral contraceptives, oral progestins, levonorgestrel intrauterine system)
- If a specific cause is identified (i.e. thyroid disease), treatment should be directed
- Life style modifications if applicable (i.e. obesity)
- Other treatment options include NSAIDs and tranexamic acid
Ovulatory Dysfunction Library
Find more information and download materials on ovulatory dysfunction in the teaching and resources library.
References
- Munro MG, et al. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2011;113:3–13.
- Whitaker L & Critchley HO. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2016;34:54–65.
- Munro et al, Int J Gynecol Obstet 2018; 1-16
- Munro MG, et al. BJOG 2017;124:185–9.
- Albers JR, et al. Am Fam Physician 2004;69:1915–26.
Endorsed by
