Anovulatory Syndrome

Anovulation occurs whenever the ovarian function is counteracted by specific events that alter the correct progression of the follicle maturation and rupture. Such situation is usually due to a lot of factors that directly or indirectly alter the endocrine control of the reproductive axis. Changes in the neuroendocrine control of the hypothalamic functions as well as impairments of the thyroid or adrenal functions can modify the ability of the ipophyseal hormones to induce follicle recruitment and then ovulation. The simple changes of nutritional state are able to interfere and negatively modulate reproductive axis. Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea or obesity and PCOS are simple examples of such physiopathological conditions that induce anovulation. This chapter aims to describe and give insights on the common causes of such impairment of the ovulatory ability.