Various Ovary Problems Affecting Female Fertility

Some women faces ovary problems that can greatly influence their female fertility. Let us define the various problems involving the ovary:

• Premature Ovarian Failure (POF) - Premature Menopause:

  POF which is also known as premature menopause. It involves the body experiencing a higher than normal rate of egg loss resulting in female infertility. This is a rare condition. Women with such ovary problems may stop menstruating before 40 years of age.

  If you have symptoms of Anovulatory cycles (not ovulating), loss of sexual desire, vaginal dryness, hot flashes and experience pain during intercourse, you may have POF.

  The cause of POF is unknown, but sometimes it could be caused by an auto-immune disorder, a thyroid problem, chemotherapy or pelvic surgery.

  If you suspect you're having POF, consult a doctor immediately before your condition deterioriates, so that you can receive ovulation induction treatment to help you conceive as soon as possible.

  A woman with untreated POF will eventually loose her ability to ovulate because her supply of eggs will run out completely. She'll not be able to be treated with drugs or hormones to induce ovulation because her eggs are gone.

  Only about 5% of POF affected women is known to resume ovulation some time later on their own. The rest of the other women with this condition are deemed to have permanent female infertility. Their only option to conceive a baby is to use donor eggs or embryos.

• Ovarian Cysts:

  Ovarian cysts are small sacs of fluid that develop in or around the ovaries. They are usually benign and rarely ever become cancerous.

  Ovarian cysts may continue to grow or disappear after a few months. They can be a result of another condition called Endometriosis that can lead to female infertility.

  Such cysts can be detected by a transvaginal ultrasound scan. If your doctor finds a cyst that looks like it may rupture soon, or suspect that it may somehow affect your chances to conceive, he can surgically remove it.

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):

  The next type of ovary problems is the PCOS which is more of a multi-system hormonal disorder. It is caused by an excessive production of Androgens which interfere with the balance and function of the other hormones in your body.

  Besides Estrogen and Progesterone, your ovaries also produce a certain amount of Androgens, which is a type of male hormone. Female infertility can result if Androgens is produced in excess. Though you can still develop eggs in your ovaries, you can't ovulate. This can lead to the formation of cysts and lesions in the ovaries where your eggs can never be relased. This can stop your menstrual cycles altogether.

  PCOS comes with symptoms like irregular or occasional heavy periods, obesity, acne, and hair growth on the face, chest or arms. In older women, PCOS may have a link with insulin resistant diabetes.

  If you're overweight with PCOS, losing weight with proper exercise and weight management may help restore your hormone balance and periods. You'll also need other medications to help regulate your menstrual cycle.