What is hypogonadism (hypo-hypo)?
Hypogonadism is a condition that results from insufficient hormone production by the brain, preventing the ovulation cycle from occurring. Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (Hypo Hypo) is a common cause of infertility in women.
This condition develops as a result of insufficient GnRH hormone secreted from the hypothalamus and insufficient FSH and LH hormones secreted from the pituitary gland. Because the necessary hormonal signals for ovulation cannot be generated, the eggs do not mature and pregnancy cannot occur.
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What causes hypogonadism?
Hypogonadism is classified into two main groups:
primary (congenital) and secondary (acquired) hypogonadism.
Primary Hypogonadism (Congenital Hypogonadism)
- It is due to congenital genetic or structural defects.
- It is often seen in association with genetic syndromes such as Kallmann syndrome or Charge syndrome.
- The ovaries are unable to respond to hormone signals and cannot produce enough sex hormones.
Secondary Hypogonadism (Acquired Hypogonadism)
- It results from dysfunctions in the brain or pituitary gland.
- Brain tumors, radiation exposure, head trauma, anorexia, excessive stress, excessive exercise, or long-term steroid/opioid use can all cause brain tumors.
It can cause secondary hypohypo syndrome.
In this type of pregnancy, ovulation does not occur because hormone production is not sufficiently stimulated by the brain.
What are the symptoms of hypohypo?
Symptoms of hypogonadism typically appear during puberty or the reproductive years.
| Symptom | Explanation |
| Absence of menstruation (amenorrhea) | This is the most common symptom. |
| Delayed puberty | Absence of breast development or sparse hair growth. |
| Decreased sexual desire | It occurs when hormone levels drop. |
| Infertility | Pregnancy does not occur because ovulation does not happen. |
| Bone loss and weakness | It can occur in cases of long-term hormone deficiency. |
Hypohypo should be suspected in women who do not menstruate during puberty or whose menstrual cycle does not begin after childbirth.
How is hypogonadism diagnosed?
The following tests are performed to make a diagnosis:
- Hormone Tests (GnRH, FSH, LH, E2):
Low levels indicate hypothalamic or pituitary problems. - MRI Imaging:
These checks for any structural problems in the brain and pituitary gland. - Genetic Analysis:
Genetic causes such as Kallmann or Charge syndrome are investigated.
These tests determine whether the type of hypogonadism is primary or secondary.
How is Hypo Hypo Treatment Performed?
The goal of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism treatment is to restore hormonal balance and induce ovulation.
Treatment is carried out in collaboration between a gynecologist and an endocrinologist.
Hormone Therapy
- Ovulation can be restarted with FSH and LH hormone injections.
- Hormone replacement therapy helps regulate the menstrual cycle and egg development.
In-vitro fertilization (IVF)treatment
- In cases of long-term hypohypo syndrome, in-vitro fertilization (IVF) is recommended.
- Women with a sufficient egg reserve achieve a high pregnancy success rate.
- At FertiJin IVF Center, success rates are increased through personalized hormone protocols.
Types of Hypogonadism
| Type | Explanation |
| Primary Hypogonadism | The ovaries cannot produce hormones despite receiving signals from the brain. |
| Secondary Hypogonadism | Hormone signals cannot be sent from the brain or pituitary gland. |
Both cases involve ovulation problems, but the treatment methods are different.
Is hypogonadism genetic?
Yes, primary hypogonadism can have a genetic basis.
- Kallmann Syndrome: Characterized by loss of sense of smell.
- CHARGE Syndrome: May be associated with disorders of the eyes, heart, and genital system.
- Turner Syndrome: Develops in women due to a missing or defective X chromosome.
In women with these syndromes, the chance of pregnancy can be preserved with early diagnosis and appropriate hormone therapy.
Hypo Hypo Treatment with FertiJin IVF Center
FertiJin Women’s Health and IVF Center in Istanbul offers treatments for hypohypohypo and hormone-related infertility:
- Comprehensive hormone tests,
- Personalized ovulation protocols,
- In vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine microinjection (ICSI) procedures,
- It offers high success rates with advanced embryo laboratory technologies.