When a cycle occurs without the release of an egg.
What is Anovulation?
Anovulation is the medical term for when the ovaries do not release an egg during a menstrual cycle.
Can you have a period without ovulating?
Yes. This is called a "Withdrawal Bleed" or "Anovulatory Bleed." The uterine lining can still build up and shed due to estrogen fluctuations even if no egg was released and no progesterone was produced.
Common Causes:
- PCOS: The most common cause of chronic anovulation.
- Stress: High cortisol can shut down the signal for the brain to release an egg.
- Perimenopause: As the body nears menopause, cycles become increasingly anovulatory.
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