Ovulation Problems and Myths (Day 3).

Ovulation Problems Definition

Welcome to Health Check with Dr Gabby.

Over the last few days, we have looked at the concept of menstruation and ovulation

As we may be aware, a woman needs to ovulate in order to release eggs for fertilization by a man’s sperm.

However in some instances, women may have problems with #ovulation.

These problems may include a woman not ovulating at all. This is a situation whereby no eggs are released.

Most of the time, women are only aware they have this problem when they cannot get pregnant or when they have fluctuations in the length of their menstrual cycle.

It is important to note that it is also possible for a woman with a regular menstrual cycle not to ovulate.

What causes Ovulation Problems?

1. It may be due to abnormal functioning in the parts of the brain that send signals to the reproductive organs.

2. Hormonal problems like excess prolactin and other hormonal disorders could be another cause.

3.  Disease of the ovaries such as polycystic ovaries. In this case a woman may notice she has excess hair growing in a male pattern e.g. on the chin and chest, she may have breakouts of acne and put on lots of weight.

4. Sometimes ovulation problems may be caused by tumours.

If you suspect any of the above, or you want to test for ovulation, please see a doctor, preferably a gynecologist. There are tests like #hormone tests which will be done.

Myths about Ovulation

Let’s address common myths about menstruation and ovulation.

The first is that menstrual blood has to be bright red.

This is not correct as the period is made up of a number of substances including the lining of the womb so it can take various shades of red, it can even look dark brown or almost black towards the end of a period. It is also normal for there to be clots occasionally especially in women with heavy flows.

Another myth is that a period that is not 28 days apart is not normal.

Again, this is incorrect as period lengths vary between 21 and 35 days.

People say a woman cannot menstruate twice in a month, this is another false assertion as women with 21 day cycles can have their periods twice a month.

Are there any things you’ve heard about the menstrual cycle you would like to share?

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This is Dr Gabby wishing you a great day. Stay Healthy.