Fertility

Several Medical Conditions Can Cause Missed Periods that Affect Fertility

Irregular or absent menstrual periods often indicate a woman is not ovulating, a condition medically known as anovulation. And, obviously, if a woman is not releasing eggs, she cannot become pregnant.

Irregular or abnormal ovulation is a significant factor in infertility cases, accounting for 30 to 40 percent of all instances. Numerous illnesses and medical conditions can lead to irregular or missed periods and abnormal ovulation, making it crucial for women experiencing difficulty conceiving to consult with a fertility doctor like Dr. Chadi Haddad, MD, a board-certified OBGYN serving the Dearborn, MI area.

Many disorders interfering with ovulation are not readily apparent and require specific testing for identification. Dr. Haddad’s expertise in reproductive health allows him to provide comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans for women facing fertility challenges in the Dearborn, MI area.

In this article Dr. Haddad discusses some of the most common causes of missed periods that can affect fertility. However, he emphasizes the importance of scheduling a consultation and testing to diagnose, rule out, and/or treat any underlying medical conditions that may be causing anovulation.

Thyroid Issues & Fertility

Thyroid disorders can significantly impact fertility by disrupting the delicate hormonal balance necessary for regular ovulation. Dr. Haddad explains that both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and fertility problems.

Hypothyroidism often results in longer, heavier periods and can interfere with ovulation. The condition may also increase the risk of miscarriage and pregnancy complications. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism typically causes lighter, less frequent periods and can also prevent ovulation.

For most women experiencing fertility issues, Dr. Haddad in the Dearborn, MI area recommends comprehensive thyroid function testing because thyroid issues are so common. According to the American Thyroid Association, women are five to eight times more likely than men to develop thyroid disease. And more than 12 percent of women will develop a thyroid disorder of some kind during their lifetime.

Once diagnosed, thyroid disorders can often be effectively managed with medication, which can often potentially restore regular ovulation and improve fertility outcomes. And if thyroid issues are ruled out, then testing for other causes of the patient’s missed periods can be conducted.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) & Fertility

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of infertility in women. This hormonal disorder is characterized by excess androgen (male hormone) production, and can lead to irregular or missed periods, and the development of small cysts on the ovaries. Dr. Haddad notes that women with PCOS often experience infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods and often have difficulty ovulating regularly – which compromises their ability to become pregnant.

The hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS can interfere with the growth and release of eggs from the ovaries, leading to very severe fertility challenges. Additionally, PCOS is often associated with insulin resistance, which can further complicate fertility and pregnancy.

For women in the Dearborn, MI area diagnosed with PCOS, Dr. Haddad offers a range of treatment options. These may include lifestyle modifications, medications to induce ovulation, and in some cases, assisted reproductive technologies. With proper management, many women with PCOS can achieve successful pregnancies.

Endometriosis & Fertility

Endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, can significantly impact fertility. Dr. Haddad explains that endometriosis can cause missed, irregular, or heavy periods – as well as severe menstrual pain. While some women with endometriosis may not experience obvious symptoms, the condition can still affect fertility.

Endometriosis can interfere with fertility in several ways, including altering the pelvic anatomy, causing inflammation, and affecting egg quality. The severity of endometriosis doesn’t always correlate with the degree of fertility impairment, making it crucial for women in the Dearborn, MI area experiencing fertility issues to undergo thorough evaluation with Dr. Haddad.

Treatment options for endometriosis-related fertility problems may include medications, surgical interventions to remove endometrial growths, or assisted reproductive technologies. Dr. Chadi Haddad in the Dearborn area works closely with each woman to develop a personalized treatment plan based on the severity of the condition and individual fertility goals.

Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) & Fertility

Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI), also known as premature ovarian failure, occurs when a woman’s ovaries stop functioning normally before the age of 40. Dr. Haddad explains that women with POI may experience irregular or missed periods and may have difficulty conceiving due to decreased egg production.

POI can be caused by genetic factors, autoimmune disorders, or toxin exposure, among other reasons. In some cases, the exact cause remains unknown. Women with POI often experience symptoms similar to menopause, including hot flashes and vaginal dryness, in addition to fertility challenges.

For women in the Dearborn, MI area diagnosed with POI, Dr. Haddad offers compassionate care and discusses various fertility preservation and treatment options. While spontaneous pregnancy is possible for some women with POI, many may require assisted reproductive technologies or consider egg donation to achieve pregnancy.

Ovarian Cysts & Fertility

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside the ovaries. While many ovarian cysts are harmless and resolve on their own, some types can interfere with normal ovulation and fertility. Dr. Haddad identifies three types of ovarian cysts that can impact fertility: follicular cysts, luteinized unruptured follicle cysts, and corpus luteum cysts.

Follicular cysts occur when a follicle fails to release an egg during ovulation and continues to grow. Luteinized unruptured follicle cysts form when a mature follicle fails to rupture and release the egg. Corpus luteum cysts develop after ovulation when the ruptured follicle seals off and fills with fluid instead of breaking down as it should.

These cysts can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and interfere with regular ovulation. Dr. Haddad in the Dearborn, MI area emphasizes the importance of regular gynecological check-ups for women to monitor for ovarian cysts and address any potential fertility impacts promptly.

Adrenal Disease & Fertility

Adrenal gland disorders can have a significant impact on fertility by disrupting the balance of hormones necessary for regular ovulation and menstruation. Dr. Haddad explains that conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome (overproduction of cortisol) and Addison’s disease (underproduction of adrenal hormones) can lead to irregular periods and fertility challenges.

Cushing’s syndrome can cause weight gain, skin changes, and irregular periods. The excess cortisol production can interfere with the release of hormones necessary for ovulation. Conversely, Addison’s disease can lead to fatigue, weight loss, and disrupted menstrual cycles due to insufficient hormone production.

For women experiencing fertility issues potentially related to adrenal disorders, Dr. Haddad in the Dearborn, MI area recommends comprehensive hormonal evaluations. Treatment for adrenal diseases often involves hormone replacement or medications to regulate hormone production, which can help restore regular menstrual cycles and improve fertility.

Fertility  Doctor | Dearborn Area

Understanding the medical causes of missed periods and their impact on fertility is crucial for women who are trying to conceive. Dr. Chadi Haddad, MD, in the Dearborn, MI area offers expert care and comprehensive evaluations for women facing fertility challenges.

By identifying and addressing underlying medical conditions, many women can improve regular ovulation and improve their chances of achieving a successful pregnancy. If you are experiencing missed or irregular periods or difficulty conceiving, schedule an appointment with Dr. Haddad in the Dearborn, MI area to explore personalized fertility evaluation options and take proactive steps towards building the family you want.

Dearborn Area Fertility Doctor: 313.724.3759