What causes you not to ovulate?

There are many possible causes for ovulation dysfunction and anovulation, which can include:

- Hormonal imbalances: Certain levels of hormones, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), are necessary for ovulation to occur. If these levels are too low or too high, ovulation may not happen.

- PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) PCOS affects women of childbearing age and is a common cause of irregular ovulation and infertility. Women with PCOS may have cysts on their ovaries and too high levels of certain hormones which prevents the ovaries to release eggs as they should.

-Hypothalamic dysfunction: The hypothalamus is a part of the brain that plays a role in regulating the menstrual cycle. If the hypothalamus is not functioning properly, it may not send the necessary signals to the pituitary gland to release FSH and LH, which can lead to anovulation.

- Hyperprolactinemia: This condition occurs when there is too much prolactin in the blood. Prolactin is a hormone that stimulates milk production in women who have given birth, but it can also inhibit ovulation in women who are not breastfeeding.

- Thyroid problems: Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can affect ovulation.

- Weight problems: Being very overweight or very underweight can affect hormone levels and lead to ovulation dysfunction.

- Medications: Certain medications, such as oral contraceptives, chemotherapy, and certain other drugs, can interfere with ovulation.

- Premature ovarian failure: This condition occurs when the ovaries stop functioning normally before the age of 40. It can be caused by genetic factors, autoimmune disorders, or certain treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

- Stress: Severe emotional stress can affect the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis, which controls the menstrual cycle and ovulation.

- Age: As women get older, the quality and quantity of eggs produced by the ovaries decline, which can lead to anovulation. Perimenopause, the transition to menopause, can cause irregular ovulation.

_If you are concerned about ovulation dysfunction, it's important to see your doctor for an evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to improve your chances of conception._