Can menstruation occur in a month when ovulation does not happen?
May 03, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Not ovulating in a given month usually does not prevent menstruation. Menstruation is typically caused by the shedding of the endometrial lining and resulting bleeding, which is not closely related to ovulation. The absence of ovulation in a cycle is commonly referred to as anovulatory menstruation, frequently seen in adolescent girls and perimenopausal women. It may lead to menstrual irregularities, prolonged periods, or increased menstrual flow. In severe cases, it can cause excessive bleeding and even shock.
Ovulation does not usually affect the occurrence of menstruation, and the absence of ovulation in a given month typically does not disrupt the menstrual cycle. The details are as follows:
Menstruation is generally caused by the shedding of the endometrial lining and resulting bleeding, which is not closely related to whether ovulation occurs. When ovulation does not occur during a menstrual cycle, it is referred to as anovulatory menstruation. This condition is commonly seen in adolescent girls and women in the perimenopausal period. In adolescents, it is due to the immature development of the ovaries and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, while in the perimenopausal period, it results from hormonal imbalances and declining estrogen levels. Anovulatory menstruation may appear similar to normal menstruation on the surface, but patients may experience irregular menstrual cycles, prolonged periods, or increased menstrual flow. In severe cases, it may lead to heavy bleeding or even hemorrhagic shock.
Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
