Ovarian dysfunction and reproductive treatments

What is ovarian dysfunction?

Ovarian dysfunction in women is a set of pathologies associated with disorders of the functioning of the female sex glands (ovaries). This disorder has a significant impact on reproductive health, leading to infertility and difficulties in natural conception. In modern reproductive medicine, especially in in vitro fertilization (IVF) programs, timely diagnosis and treatment of ovarian dysfunction play an important role.

Causes of ovarian dysfunction

Disruption of ovarian function, responsible for hormone production and the ovulation process, can be caused by many factors, including the following:

• Endocrine diseases (diabetes mellitus, obesity, pituitary tumors, thyroid pathologies);
• Non-inflammatory diseases of the reproductive organs;
• Artificial termination of pregnancy;
• Inflammatory diseases of the genital tract (adnexitis, endometritis, salpingo-oophoritis);
• Stress, hypothermia, change of climate zone;
• Age-related changes associated with the natural decline of ovarian function;
• Severe fluctuations in body weight.

Symptoms of ovarian dysfunction

The clinical picture of ovarian dysfunction includes the following symptoms:

• Pain in the lower abdomen, radiating to the lower back and pelvis, especially in the second half of the menstrual cycle;
• Scanty periods or blood spotting between cycles;
• Heavy uterine bleeding after 1 to 2 weeks of missed periods;
• Severe premenstrual syndrome;
• Difficulties in conception, natural absence of pregnancy.

Diagnostic methods

If ovarian dysfunction is suspected, it is necessary to consult a reproductive medicine specialist, gynecologist, or endocrinologist. As part of the preparation for IVF, special attention is paid to a comprehensive diagnosis of the hormonal background, the functional state of the ovaries, and the identification of possible obstacles to successful conception.

The gynecologist or reproductive specialist performs an examination and ultrasound of the pelvic organs. They then prescribe the necessary laboratory tests, including the determination of sex hormone levels, analysis of thyroid gland function, and other endocrine organs. At the "Natuvitro" clinic, you can also consult a therapist and an endocrinologist, perform an ultrasound of the thyroid gland and mammary glands, which will give you a complete analysis of your reproductive health status.

Treatment methods for ovarian dysfunction

The choice of treatment is determined based on the identified causes and the nature of the disorders. The main objectives of therapy are as follows:

• Relief of painful symptoms;
• Elimination of the causes of dysfunction;
• Normalization of the hormonal background and ovulation;
• Restoration of the menstrual cycle;
• Prevention of recurrences.

In cases of acute uterine bleeding, urgent medical care must be provided in a hospital.

A set of therapeutic measures for ovarian dysfunction may include:

• Normalization of body weight, avoidance of bad habits, regular physical activity;
• Medication therapy aimed at restoring hormonal balance by eliminating inflammatory processes, strengthening the body, and taking vitamins;
• Surgical intervention (for example, cyst or tumor removal) using minimally invasive techniques.

IVF in cases of ovarian dysfunction

When planning a pregnancy and IVF, patients suffering from ovarian dysfunction may be prescribed ovulation stimulation and correction of hormonal balance, taking into account the individual characteristics of the body. In cases where the patient's own eggs cannot be used, IVF with egg donation may be performed.

Additionally, if certain factors exclude the use of both the patient's eggs and the partner's sperm, IVF with double donation may be recommended. These techniques can significantly increase the chances of a successful pregnancy and the birth of a healthy child.

The specialists at the "Natuvitro" clinic will choose the optimal treatment scheme and reproductive technologies aimed at achieving a successful pregnancy even in the presence of this pathology.