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Fertility Glossary

Anovulation

The absence of ovulation in a menstrual cycle.

Fertility basics

Anovulation means an egg is not released during a menstrual cycle. It can present as absent periods, very irregular cycles, or apparently regular cycles that are not actually ovulatory. Common causes in India include PCOS, thyroid disorders, high prolactin, significant weight change or excessive exercise, and premature ovarian insufficiency. Anovulation is one of the most treatable causes of infertility, often responding well to ovulation induction with medicines such as letrozole.

Also known as: not ovulating, no ovulation, anovulatory cycles

Related India guides

Sources

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (icmr.gov.in)
  • Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (fogsi.org)

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

Related terms

Ovulation

The release of a mature egg from the ovary, usually mid-cycle.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

A common hormonal condition causing irregular ovulation, and often excess androgens and polycystic-appearing ovaries.

Ovulation induction

Using medicines to stimulate the ovary to release one or more mature eggs.

Letrozole

An aromatase-inhibitor medicine commonly used off-label for ovulation induction in India.

Prolactin

A pituitary hormone that, when raised, can suppress ovulation.

Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)

The pituitary hormone used to screen for thyroid problems affecting fertility.

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