Infertility - Hormonal deficiencies

Hormonal Deficiencies

Hormones regulate the development and release of the ovum from the ovary and prepare the uterine wall for reception of the fertilized egg. Low levels of certain hormones can disrupt any one of the numerous stages of the menstrual cycle. Hormonal problems affect one third of all infertile women.

Anovulatory cycles are menstrual cycles in which no egg is released. Amenorrhea is when there is no menstruation, with or without ovulation. Inadequate endometrium is when the lining of the uterus is not sufficient for the fertilized egg to lodge on. All of these conditions can be treated with synthetic hormones. Many couples are able to conceive after hormonal treatment. The physician determines the hormone levels through a series of exams. Urine testing, mucous testing, and biopsies will give the different hormone levels for the various hormones required for successful fertilization.