Ovulation Issues: Key Questions for Women's Health - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Share to:

Ovulation issues


My cycle averages around 32-40 days, sometimes extending to 50 days.
This time, my period started on May 25.
On June 6, I had a transvaginal ultrasound, which showed the left follicle measuring 1.27 cm, the right about 0.9 cm, and the endometrial lining at 0.5 cm (13 days into the cycle).
On June 10, I had another ultrasound, and the left follicle decreased to 0.9 cm, the right increased to 1.1 cm, and the endometrial lining remained at 0.5 cm (17 days into the cycle).
From November last year to January this year, I took ovulation medication, but the results were not satisfactory, with cycles averaging about 32-35 days.
While taking the ovulation medication, I experienced night sweats, waking up 2-3 times a night to change clothes due to sweating.
Since February of this year, I stopped taking the ovulation medication and switched to traditional Chinese medicine powder.
The night sweats have ceased, but ovulation results are still not very good.
The last cycle was similar to this one, with follicle sizes around 1.0 cm on day 15.

I have several questions:
1.
Will the follicles continue to grow?
2.
Does a longer cycle indicate infertility?
3.
Is there still hope for this cycle?
4.
Is calculating the ovulation date most accurately done by counting 14 days before the next period?
5.
Do I still have a chance of conceiving?
6.
What foods can stimulate ovulation and promote follicle growth?
7.
How long after ovulation does a corpus luteum cyst typically form? (Is it possible for a cyst over 4 cm to appear the day after ovulation?)

Xiao Yue Er, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/11

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


The menstrual cycle averages around 32-40 days, sometimes extending to 50 days.
The first day of this menstrual period was on May 25, and on June 6, a transvaginal ultrasound was performed, showing a left follicle measuring 1.27 cm, a right follicle approximately 0.9 cm, and a uterine lining of 0.5 cm (day 13 of the cycle).
On June 10, another ultrasound was conducted, revealing the left follicle reduced to 0.9 cm, the right follicle measuring 1.1 cm, and the uterine lining remaining at 0.5 cm (day 17 of the cycle).
From November last year to January this year, I took ovulation medication, but the results were not satisfactory, with cycles averaging about 32-35 days.
Due to the medication, I experienced night sweats, waking up 2-3 times a night to change clothes because of excessive sweating.
Since February of this year, I stopped taking ovulation medication and switched to traditional Chinese medicine powder.
The night sweats have ceased, but ovulation results are still not very good; the last cycle was similar to this one, with follicles measuring around 1.0 cm on day 15.

1.
Will the follicles grow larger?
Answer: Yes, they can grow larger.


2.
Does a longer cycle indicate infertility?
Answer: Not necessarily.


3.
Is there hope for this cycle?
Answer: Possibly.


4.
Is calculating the ovulation day most accurately done by counting 14 days before the next menstrual period?
Answer: Yes.


5.
Do I still have a chance to conceive?
Answer: Yes.


6.
What can I eat to stimulate ovulation and promote follicle growth?
Answer: There doesn't seem to be anything specific that can stimulate ovulation and promote follicle growth.


7.
How long after ovulation does a corpus luteum cyst typically form?
Answer: It forms right after ovulation.

Reply Date: 2019/06/11

More Info


Understanding ovulation issues is crucial for women's reproductive health, especially when experiencing irregular menstrual cycles and difficulties with ovulation. Based on your description, it seems you have been tracking your menstrual cycle and ovulation closely, which is a positive step towards understanding your reproductive health. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Will the follicles continue to grow?
Follicles can grow and develop in response to hormonal signals, primarily from the pituitary gland and ovaries. Typically, a dominant follicle will emerge and continue to grow until ovulation occurs. However, if you are experiencing irregular cycles and have been on ovulation-inducing medications without success, it may indicate an underlying issue with your ovarian function or hormonal balance. Regular monitoring through ultrasound can help determine if the follicles are maturing adequately.

2. Does a long cycle mean infertility?
A longer menstrual cycle can be associated with irregular ovulation, which may impact fertility. However, not all women with longer cycles are infertile. It is essential to evaluate other factors, such as the quality of the eggs, the health of the reproductive organs, and the presence of ovulation. Consulting with a fertility specialist can provide more personalized insights.

3. Is there hope for this cycle?
Each cycle is unique, and while your current cycle may present challenges, it does not mean there is no hope. If you are ovulating, even if the follicles are smaller than expected, there is still a chance for conception. Monitoring ovulation signs, such as basal body temperature and cervical mucus changes, can provide additional insights.

4. Is calculating ovulation based on 14 days before the next period accurate?
The "14 days before the next period" rule is a general guideline for women with regular cycles (typically around 28 days). However, for those with longer or irregular cycles, ovulation may occur later. Tracking ovulation through methods like ovulation predictor kits or ultrasound can provide more accurate timing.

5. Do you still have a chance to conceive?
Yes, there is still a chance to conceive, especially if you are ovulating, even if the follicles are not as large as expected. Factors such as sperm health, timing of intercourse, and overall reproductive health also play significant roles in conception.

6. What can stimulate ovulation and help follicles grow?
Several lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments can support ovulation. Maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats, and antioxidants can be beneficial. Some women find that supplements like inositol, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids may help with ovulation. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

7. When do corpus luteum cysts typically form?
Corpus luteum cysts form after ovulation when the follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. These cysts usually develop within a few days after ovulation and can vary in size. It is unlikely for a corpus luteum cyst to appear the day after ovulation; typically, they are identified about a week post-ovulation. If you notice a cyst that is 4 cm, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider for monitoring and management.

In summary, while you are experiencing challenges with your menstrual cycle and ovulation, there are still avenues to explore for improving your reproductive health. Consulting with a fertility specialist can provide tailored advice and treatment options based on your specific situation. Regular monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, and possibly further medical intervention may enhance your chances of conception. Remember, every woman's body is different, and what works for one may not work for another, so personalized care is essential.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Infertility: Common Concerns and Next Steps for Couples

Hello Dr. Jan, I got married this February, but since we got engaged in January, my husband and I have been trying to conceive. Due to our busy work schedules, we have intercourse about once a week. My menstrual cycle is quite regular (27-30 days), and I notice significant change...


Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Low estrogen, high prolactin, and high androgens cannot be determined by a single blood test. Particularly for prolactin, it is best to test on the second or third day of the menstrual cycle for more accurate results. If androgens are elevated, it is important to consider whether...

[Read More] Understanding Infertility: Common Concerns and Next Steps for Couples


Understanding Ovulation Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello Doctor: I have a regular ovulation cycle every month, approximately 26 days. Last month, I tried ovulation medication but did not get pregnant. This month, on Day 7, I noticed egg white cervical mucus. On Day 8, the test line was close to the control line, and on Day 9, it ...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, ovulation typically occurs 14 days before the next menstrual period. If it happens earlier, it may indicate early ovulation. It is recommended to consult a gynecologist for ovulation medication and monitoring. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Understanding Ovulation Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice


Understanding Fertility Challenges: Ovulation and Pregnancy Concerns

I have been married for three years, and there has been no progress in my pregnancy journey. After visiting the hospital for examinations, it turns out my husband has no issues, but I have chocolate cysts on both ovaries (the right side had surgery for a cyst before but has recur...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, ovulation occurs around the time of low temperatures. Engaging in intercourse before and after ovulation does not have a specific time point. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Understanding Fertility Challenges: Ovulation and Pregnancy Concerns


Understanding Ovulation: Signs, Timing, and Fertility Concerns

On the eighth day of the menstrual cycle, if the body temperature drops, could that day be considered ovulation day (with a little menstrual bleeding still present)? Is it possible to conceive? The menstrual period typically starts and then stops after four days, with a small amo...


Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello! 1. Measuring body temperature may not accurately reflect ovulation; it is necessary to measure over several months to identify patterns. Additionally, correlating with blood test results or ultrasound findings is essential for accurately determining ovulation days. If it i...

[Read More] Understanding Ovulation: Signs, Timing, and Fertility Concerns


Related FAQ

Ovulation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Ovulation Period

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Ovulation Bleeding

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Anovulatory Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Ovulation Medication

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menstrual Abnormalities

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menstrual Regulation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menopause

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Pms

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)