What Is Ovarian Reserve?

Ovarian reserve refers to the number of eggs present in a woman’s ovaries. Unlike other cells in the body, a woman’s egg reserve is finite and starts to decline with age, particularly after 35 years old. However, the rate of decline varies from woman to woman.

• Some women over 40 may still have a normal ovarian reserve.
• Others, even at a younger age, might experience a faster decline in their ovarian reserve.

This is why it’s essential to assess ovarian reserve individually to determine fertility potential.

How Is Ovarian Reserve Measured?

1. Antral Follicle Count (AFC)

• An ultrasound is performed at the beginning of the menstrual cycle to count antral follicles (small follicles between 2 and 9 mm in size).
• Observing 8 or more follicles generally indicates a good ovarian reserve.
• The higher the number of antral follicles, the better the ovarian reserve is expected to be.

2. Hormonal Profile

Hormonal blood tests measure key hormones that indicate ovarian reserve:

• Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH): A key marker of ovarian reserve.
• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): High levels may indicate a lower reserve.
• Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Estradiol: Provide additional insights into ovarian function.

While these tests are highly informative, they are most reliable when combined with a woman’s medical history and an observation of how her ovaries respond to hormonal stimulation.

I Have Low Ovarian Reserve—Can I Get Pregnant?

Natural Pregnancy

With a low ovarian reserve, the chances of achieving a natural pregnancy may decrease, but it’s not impossible. Each case is unique and requires individual assessment.

Assisted Reproduction

Even with a low ovarian reserve, pregnancy rates through assisted reproduction do not necessarily drop. Some women with fewer eggs may still produce high-quality eggs capable of resulting in a successful pregnancy.

Is There a Solution for Low Ovarian Reserve?

While there is currently no technique to improve a confirmed low ovarian reserve, assisted reproduction offers several options:

• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Can maximize the chances of using your own eggs.
• Egg Donation: An effective solution for women whose eggs may not be viable.

Your Journey at Sakalli IVF

At Sakalli IVF, we specialize in diagnosing and treating cases of low ovarian reserve. Our experienced team offers:

• Comprehensive diagnostic studies to assess your ovarian reserve.
• Personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.
• Support and care at every step of your fertility journey.

If you have any questions or need guidance, contact Sakalli IVF today. Let us help you achieve your dream of building a family.