Anovulation

What does anovulation mean?

Anovulation: A cycle in which no egg is released. It is common in the first years of periods and in perimenopause.

How it is used in the Splash library

• Irregular cycles often mean ovulation is happening at different times, or sometimes not at all (Anovulation).

  From “Irregular cycles: what is going on?”

• Also get checked if your cycles are very irregular or you rarely see any signs of ovulation – sometimes cycles happen without ovulation (Anovulation).

  From “Signs you’re ovulating”

• Cycles without ovulation (Anovulation), common in teens, perimenopause and PCOS.

  From “Period lasting longer than 7 days: what to know”

Anovulation explained

Anovulation means a menstrual cycle in which no egg is released. Without ovulation there is no corpus luteum and no rise in progesterone, so the womb lining isn't shed in the usual way and bleeding can be irregular, light, heavy or absent.

What's typical

An occasional anovulatory cycle is normal, especially in the first few years after periods start, during perimenopause and after stopping hormonal contraception.

Regular anovulation is a common reason for irregular periods and difficulty getting pregnant. Causes include PCOS, thyroid problems, high prolactin, low body weight, under-eating, intense exercise and stress.

A missing temperature rise or never getting a positive LH test can be clues, and a blood progesterone test can help confirm it.

When to talk to a GP, nurse or pharmacist

• Your cycles are often shorter than 21 days, longer than 35 days, or very unpredictable.
• Your periods have stopped for 3 months or more and you are not pregnant (NHS).
• You are trying to conceive and think you may not be ovulating.

In the UK you can call NHS 111 for advice at any time. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US). This is general information, not medical advice.