What can cause fertility problems?
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Ovulation problems
Ovulation problems
Failure of the woman to ovulate is the cause in about 3 in 10 couples with infertility. In some women this is a permanent problem. In some women it is intermittent: some months ovulation occurs, and some months it doesn't. There are various causes of ovulation problems including:
- Early (premature) menopause.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This can also cause excess hair growth, acne, menstrual problems and is associated with obesity. See separate leaflet called 'Polycystic Ovary Syndrome' for more detail.
- Hormone problems. For example, too much prolactin hormone produced by the pituitary gland that lies just beneath the brain, or too little or too much thyroxine hormone produced by the thyroid gland in the neck.
- Being very underweight or overweight. This can affect your hormone balance which can affect ovulation. In particular, women with anorexia nervosa often do not ovulate.
- Excessive exercise such as regular marathon running can affect your hormone balance which can affect ovulation.
- Chronic (long-term) illnesses. Some women with severe chronic illnesses such as uncontrolled diabetes, cancers and kidney failure may not ovulate.
- A side-effect from some medicines is a rare cause. Medicines that sometimes cause this include anti-inflammatory painkillers and some chemotherapy medicines. Some street drugs such as cannabis and cocaine can also affect your ability to ovulate.
- Smoking. This may also be a factor.
- Insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides may be a factor in some women.
- Various other problems with the ovary such as certain genetic problems.
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