What is diminished ovarian reserve?

Ovarian reserve refers to the number of follicles in a woman's ovaries and determines her fertility potential.

Diminished ovarian reserve is a condition in which a woman has a low number of high-quality eggs in her ovaries.

Diminished ovarian reserve can reduce the chances of natural conception and may increase the need for assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF.

Causes of Diminished Ovarian Reserve

• Aging: As women age, their ovarian reserve naturally begins to decline. This decrease can be more pronounced in women over the age of 35.
• Genetic Factors: Some women may naturally have a lower ovarian reserve due to genetic factors.
• Cancer Treatment: Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy can negatively affect ovarian reserve.
• Ovarian Surgery: Previous ovarian surgeries can damage the ovaries and lead to a decrease in ovarian reserve.

Signs of Low Egg Reserve in Women

• Emotional changes such as irritability and depression
• Irregularities in the menstrual cycle or amenorrhea (absence of menstruation)
• Decreased sexual desire
• Vaginal dryness
• Difficulties in the process of becoming pregnant

Women with Low Ovarian Reserve Undergoing IVF Treatment

Women with a low ovarian reserve may have difficulties conceiving naturally. IVF or other assisted reproductive techniques can increase the chances of pregnancy by utilizing the limited number of high-quality eggs.

Treatment of Low Ovarian Reserve in Women

Treatment option for women with low ovarian reserve: In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

How is the AMH Test for Ovarian Reserve Performed?

The AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) blood test is used to determine ovarian reserve. This test measures the level of AMH in the blood to estimate the number of follicles in a woman's ovaries. A blood sample is taken, and the AMH level is analyzed in a laboratory setting.

When is the Ovarian Reserve Test Performed?

The ovarian reserve test is performed on a specific day of a woman's menstrual cycle. It is usually done on the 2nd or 3rd day of menstruation.

During this period, hormone levels are more stable, allowing for a more accurate evaluation.

What Should the AMH Level Be in the Ovarian Reserve Test?

The AMH level may vary depending on the measurement unit used by the laboratory.

In general, a low AMH level may indicate a low ovarian reserve. However, the number of eggs seen on ultrasound may sometimes appear better or worse and not correspond exactly with the AMH value.

Every woman’s ovarian reserve is different, and AMH level alone is not a definitive criterion. Other factors should also be taken into consideration.

Normal AMH Hormone Levels

AMH levels may vary depending on the measurement units used by the laboratory. Generally, younger women have higher AMH levels, while levels decrease with age and diminishing ovarian reserve.

• High (AMH > 4 ng/ml)
• Normal (AMH 1.5-4 ng/ml)
• Low (AMH < 1.1 ng/ml)
• Very Low (AMH < 0.5 ng/ml)

How Many Eggs Are Needed to Get Pregnant?

Although there is no specific number of eggs required to get pregnant, generally, at least one healthy egg is sufficient for conception. However, the chance of pregnancy and fertility potential vary from person to person, and having multiple healthy eggs can increase the likelihood of pregnancy.

Can Women with Low Ovarian Reserve Get Pregnant?

Yes, women with low ovarian reserve can still get pregnant. Even with a low reserve, there is still a chance to produce a healthy egg and achieve fertilization. However, women with low ovarian reserve may face more difficulties conceiving naturally and might have a higher likelihood of needing assisted reproductive techniques.

How Is Decreased Ovarian Reserve Diagnosed?

• Irregularities in the menstrual cycle or amenorrhea (absence of menstruation)
• Delayed or Irregular Ovulation
• High FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) Levels
• Low AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) Levels
• Detection of Abnormal or Low Number of Follicles on Ultrasound