Anovulation

1 medicine

Anovulation is the absence of ovulation during a menstrual cycle, a common cause of irregular periods and infertility. Treatment often starts with lifestyle changes or the ovulation-inducing medicine clomifene.

Serophene

Clomifene

25/50/100mg

Serophene is a womens health medication containing Clomifene, available as 25/50/100mg tablets.

from $0.39 / tablet View

Key facts

  • Anovulation happens when the ovaries fail to release an egg during a menstrual cycle. It's one of the most common causes of irregular or absent periods and a major contributor to female infertility.
  • The most frequent driver is a hormonal imbalance that disrupts signaling between the brain and the ovaries; polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the leading cause.
  • Other contributors include thyroid dysfunction, elevated prolactin, significant weight changes, extreme exercise, and chronic stress.
  • When medical treatment is needed, clomifene is the standard first approach, prompting the ovaries to develop and release an egg.

Why ovulation stops

The most frequent driver is a hormonal imbalance that disrupts the signals between the brain and the ovaries. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the leading cause. Other contributors include thyroid dysfunction, elevated prolactin, significant weight changes, extreme exercise, and chronic stress. Many women have occasional anovulatory cycles without ever noticing; it's persistent anovulation, showing up as irregular, infrequent, or absent periods over several months, that typically prompts investigation.

Restoring ovulation

When lifestyle factors are involved, addressing body weight and reducing physical or psychological stress often restores normal cycles on their own. Where medical treatment is needed, ovulation induction is the standard approach. Clomifene works by blocking estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, prompting the body to release more follicle-stimulating hormone and trigger egg development. A course usually runs for five days early in the cycle, and response is checked with follow-up blood tests or ultrasound. It sits within the broader women's health category of treatments aimed at correcting hormonal imbalances.

When to see a doctor

Persistent or unexplained anovulation is worth investigating with a gynecologist or reproductive endocrinologist, particularly if periods are irregular or absent for several months or conception isn't happening despite regular unprotected sex.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.