Mien experienced irregular periods since puberty, with cycles sometimes lasting two to three months. After marriage, she took menstrual regulation medication suggested by friends, but her condition did not improve. An ultrasound of her uterus and ovaries at Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, revealed small ovarian follicles and a thin endometrium, suggesting a pituitary abnormality leading to ovulation disorder. Specialized blood tests confirmed her estrogen levels were low, below 50 pmol/L, with a deficiency in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

Master, Doctor Tran Nguyen Quynh Tram, Associate Head of the Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, explained that the deficiency of these hormones causes sparse, light periods and undeveloped ovarian follicles. Ovulation disorder occurs when ovulation regulation is disrupted in the hypothalamus-pituitary axis or the ovaries, affecting the menstrual cycle.

Dr. Tram consults with Mien on her treatment. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Mien was prescribed pituitary hormone replacement therapy and ovulation-stimulating injections. "Mien's chance of pregnancy is very low because her pituitary insufficiency has been prolonged and treatment was sought late", Dr. Tram stated. She added that if detected early, women with pituitary insufficiency can still conceive and give birth by using hormone replacement to stimulate ovulation and restore reproductive function, under close monitoring by endocrinologists and obstetricians to prevent risks.

Non-specific symptoms of pituitary insufficiency, such as fatigue, weight loss, and decreased libido, are often overlooked for months or even years. Women with pituitary insufficiency may experience sparse periods, amenorrhea, leading to a low chance of pregnancy, infertility, and an inability to produce milk postpartum.

Women with this type of endocrine disorder have a low chance of pregnancy and a higher risk of pregnancy complications, including miscarriage, anemia, and gestational hypertension.

Mien's doctor advised her to strictly adhere to her treatment regimen, attend regular check-ups, and follow scheduled health examinations for effective disease management. Patients should maintain a healthy diet rich in nutrients, green vegetables, and fresh fruits, limit caffeine, sugar, and processed foods, and reduce stress.

Bach Duong

*Patient's name has been changed