Get Started / Causes of Female Infertility / Low Ovarian Reserve
Understanding Diminished Ovarian Reserve
Eggs gradually decline with age and often lead to difficulty conceiving. A diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) refers to a condition where the ovaries produce fewer eggs, or eggs of a lower quality than expected for a female at a certain age. This condition directly impacts the chances of egg fertilization and the odds of successful pregnancy.
Despite challenges, many women with low egg reserves conceive successfully – especially when paired with proactive planning and effective protocols. IVFMD physicians specialize in treating women with very low egg reserves.
What are the symptoms of a low egg reserve?
There are not many obvious symptoms of a low egg reserve, but these symptoms, along with your age and lifestyle, may point to a low ovarian reserve:
Hot flashes
Short cycles (27 days or less)
Early ovulation (on day 10 or earlier)
Frequent skipped menses
How do I know how many eggs I have?
You cannot confirm you are experiencing a low egg reserve without fertility testing. There are several methods to check your ovarian reserve, but we’ve found that your AFC (Antral Follicle Count) and the level of Antimullerian Hormone (AMH) are the most helpful indicators.
Antral Follicle Count (AFC)
This test measures the number of visible follicles early in the menstrual cycle using ultrasound. These follicles can grow with stimulation. Think of antral follicles as your “checking account.”
- Normal AFC: ≥12 follicles total from both ovaries
- Low AFC: Fewer than 10 follicles
Antimullerian Hormone (AMH)
Produced by small, undeveloped follicles, AMH reflects ovarian reserve. These immature follicles are unavailable because they do not respond to stimulation medications. Think of AMH as your egg “savings account.”
- Normal AMH levels: ≥1.5 ng/mL
- Low AMH levels: <1 ng/mL
We can test for both of these numbers when you come in for your fertility assessment. During your assessment, our fertility specialists may suggest additional fertility testing to diagnose other fertility issues.
Can I still get pregnant if I have low ovarian reserve?
Absolutely! Fertility specialists at IVFMD have extensive experience helping women with low egg reserve. Remember, you only need one good egg to have a successful pregnancy. A personalized approach to treatment is essential and treatment options differ depending on how low your egg reserve is:
- IVF Protocols for Diminished Ovarian Reserve: Tailored IVF protocols can maximize your chances of success.
- Mini IVF for Very Low Reserve: This cost-effective option uses fewer medications while still optimizing outcomes.
- Ovulation Induction with IUI: When only 1–2 eggs are available per cycle, IUI treatment may be a better choice than IVF when there are no severe male fertility issues or tubal blockages.
- For severe DOR cases, donor egg IVF provides a highly successful alternative.
Hope on the Horizon
Although low ovarian reserve can be daunting, one healthy egg is all it takes to conceive. If using your eggs proves challenging, other paths to parenthood remain open. By working closely with trusted fertility specialists and exploring tailored fertility treatments, your dream of becoming a parent remains within reach. To discover how we can help you conceive with low ovarian reserve or DOR, contact us today.
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