Q: Good day Doc. I have been married for 2yrs now with no issue. I have been to many hospitals but none found out what the problem is. My hubby is ok. Just last month, I went for follicular tracking and I found out that there is evidence of un-ruptured luteinized follicle which I understand means that my eggs just get big but don’t break. Please advise me on what to do this month. Thanks.

Q: Infertility is a common gynecological problem. I empathize with you on your health concerns, and I’m glad you are doing something positive about it. I understand your fears, and the need to get a solution, however moving from one doctor to another may not be a good idea. It helps if you stick to one specialist, as he would be able to follow-up on your management and provide you with a continuing, comprehensive care.

In normal healthy females, ovulation with rupture of a mature ovarian follicle and release of the eggs occurs every month, following the rise/surge of luteinizing hormone (LH). However, in a small percentage of women, the follicle does not rupture and the eggs are therefore not released.

It occurs more frequently in women taking fertility drugs and those who have had Pelvic Inflammatory disease, endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome (a condition which presents with irregular menses, male pattern hair growth, facial hair, acne, and cysts in the ovaries). Luteinizing un-ruptured follicle syndrome (LUFS), is quite difficult to diagnose because it presents with no symptoms or signs. Diagnosis is made only from serial ultrasound (follicle tracking).

Treatment involves the injection of a hormone called Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG). This is monitored by an ultrasound scan to see if ovulation occurs; intercourse or artificial insemination should be timed accordingly. If ovulation still does not take place then, a repeat injection is given, with an increased dose. If ovulation still doesn’t occur, then IVF is the best solution. All these can only be done by a specialist in a good centre.
I strongly recommend you see a gyneacologist, who can mange you appropriately and give you the necessary support. Hope God grants you your heart’s desires and makes you rejoice with your own bundle of joy soon. Best Wishes!

****This post was contributed by a guest doctor blogger.

Have a great night, y’all 😀