That one gets a period every month is not a sign that you are ovulating normally. There are situations whereby the menstrual cycle occurs without ovulation. Where this happens, it is termed an anovulatory or non-ovulatory cycle.
Many females experience anovulatory cycle at one time or another during their menstruating lifetime. This condition is more common among girls during the early stages of their menstrual cycle and among women nearing menopause.
If you are trying to conceive, it is time to pay extra attention to your cycle. Remember that in the absence of ovulation, there will be infertility.
The following may be reasons for an anovulatory cycle:
•Hormonal imbalance
•Ovarian cysts or other hormone-secreting tumors
•Strenuous exercise or extremely active lifestyle
•Rapid weight loss and gain
•Excessive stress (emotional and mental)
•Medications – hormone therapy and oral contraceptives
•Chronic disease, illness, and various infections
•Eating habits and thyroid problems
•Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
•Breastfeeding
Diagnosing an anovulatory cycle involves checking progesterone levels, lining of the uterus, blood (for the presence of certain antibodies), and performing an ultrasound for a closer look at the uterus and ovaries.
Treatment of anovulatory cycles will depend greatly on the findings of the administered tests.
The following remedies and recommendations may help correct that anovulatory cycle:
Stinging nettle – the species is one of the most effective herbs for ovulation. It is rich in antioxidants and calcium, which affects women’s ability to conceive. This herb is also rich in vitamins A, C, D and K, potassium, phosphorus, iron, and sulphur. Consuming nettle leaves helps to ensure good reproductive health. Infuse a tablespoon in a teacup of boiled water for 15 minutes, sieve, and add honey, if desired. Take 2 X daily.
Vitex (Chasteberry)- our local equivalent is V. doniana (uchakoro) in Igbo.
This herb promotes ovulation and improves the timing of the menstrual cycles. Vitex is mainly used for raising progesterone levels and balancing progesterone to estrogen ratio. The new leaves and fruits may provide a solution to your ovulation problem. The leaves can be chewed fresh, squeezed in hot water, and drunk. You can also purchase the capsule form. The benefits of this herb are noticeable after 3 months of continuous usage.
Yarrow (ite kwo nwa-Igbo, eyin olobe-Yoruba): has been shown to help regulate menstrual and ovulation cycles in women who are having issues. The herb also helps to bring on menstruation and increases the muscular activity of the uterus.
Stachytarpheta indica (iru alangbe-Yoruba; odu ngwele-Igbo; tsarkiyar kusu-Hausa): this simple herb has helped many women. For better results, add equal quantity of Ocimum gratissimum (nchuanwu-Igbo; effirin-Yoruba; daidoya ta gida-Hausa). Take as an infusion, 1 teacup 2-3 x daily for a minimum of 3 months. This will help you conceive and even relieve scanty periods.
Passion flower (Passiflora edulis)– if your anovulatory cycle is linked with stress, try this relaxing herb. This can have an amazing calming effect that ameliorates all the major symptoms. 1 teaspoon is to be infused in boiled water for 15-30 minutes and taken before bedtime. Be sure not to exceed the recommended dosage. The strength needed will vary from person to person.
Parsley-this attractive leaf garnish is majorly used as spice in soups, stews, and salads. Surprisingly, this herb is more than a garnish! Because of its high vitamin C content, parsley has long been used for women struggling with ovulation and menstruation issues. This herb is quite common and a simple herb to find. To consume, simply add it to your smoothies, salads, and meals or just chew a few.
Green tea- is another effective herbal remedy to induce ovulation. It is a powerful antioxidant that improves reproductive health. Take a teabag daily. Be sure to get an organic brand.
Ginseng- is a popular herb that we all know, but did you know it could be used for ovulation problems as well? It is said that ginseng can greatly help to stimulate the ovaries and help them produce estrogen. Ginseng generally helps to balance the reproductive hormones. It comes as tinctures, in capsule and powdered forms.
Evening primrose- take evening primrose oil supplements, an omega 6 fatty acid for hormonal fluctuations. 500-1000mg daily is usually recommended.
While taking herbal remedies to correct your anovulatory cycle, you should also beware of xeno-hormones, which mimic estrogen in the body. Xeno-estrogens are found in plastics, many beauty supplies and pesticides. And once in the body, they throw the system into confusion, thereby disrupting the hormone balance. Using glass instead of plastic will go a long way in reducing your exposure to chemical hormones.
Also:
Regulate your eating habits and lifestyle: eat healthier; avoid overly processed, fried, or sugary foods as much as possible. Also, limit alcohol and caffeine use as well.
Exercise regularly without overdoing it, and try to make time for relaxation and stress relief.
Making changes to your weight (gaining or losing weight as directed by your physician) may also be enough to jump-start stalled ovulation.
Get to know your body: Your body gives off a few clues as it prepares for ovulation. Around your most fertile days, for instance, your cervical mucus should take on an egg white consistency, and your cervix will feel high, soft, and more open than normal. If you pay attention to these signs and more, over the course of a few months, you may begin to recognize the indications of ovulation.
