anovulation /an′ovyəlā″shən/ , a failure of the ovaries to produce, mature, or release ova. The condition may result from ovarian immaturity or postmaturity; altered ovarian function, as in pregnancy and lactation; primary ovarian dysfunction, as in ovarian dysgenesis; or disturbed interaction of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovary caused by stress or disease. Oral contraceptives suppress ovulation. Anovulation may also be an adverse side effect of medications prescribed in the treatment of other disorders. −anovular, anovulatory, adj.
