What Is Anovulatory Cycle?

As its name suggests, an anovulatory cycle occurs when a women skips ovulation. During ovulation, the ovary releases an egg, or oocyte. It's not uncommon for a woman in her prime conception years to experience an anovulatory cycle occasionally. In fact, you may have experienced one and not even noticed.

How can you tell if you have an anovulatory cycle?

Irregular periods or lack of a period can be signs of anovulation. Menstrual bleeding that is lighter or heavier than usual may also suggest an anovulatory cycle. For those trying to conceive, infertility, or the inability to get pregnant, can also be a sign of an anovulatory cycle.

What is the reason for anovulation?

Anovulation is often the result of an imbalance of the hormones that cause a woman to ovulate and may be part of the condition polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Irregular menstruation can also indicate anovulation, and we have a variety of diagnostic tools to help determine the cause of irregular cycles.