Understanding Your Ovarian Reserve: A Comprehensive Guide
Most women start to consider their fertility when they plan to conceive, often discovering the critical role of ovarian reserve after the age of 30. This guide explains the significance of ovarian reserve in fertility, linking it to egg quality and the antral follicle count, ensuring all your questions are answered comprehensively.
The Basics of Ovarian Function
Every woman is born with up to 6 million egg cells. By birth, this number drops by about 80%, leaving about 2-3 million eggs. This count diminishes by approximately 1,000 eggs monthly until menopause. Post-35, the decline in both the quantity and quality of eggs accelerates, significantly impacting fertility.
AMH Levels: A Key Indicator
AMH, or anti-mullerian hormone, reflects the number of eggs remaining in the ovaries. It's assessed via blood tests, offering insights into the ovarian reserve but not egg quality. Understanding AMH levels helps tailor fertility treatments to enhance conception chances.
Antral Follicle Count
This count, determined through transvaginal ultrasound, reveals the number of potential eggs in your ovaries, providing a snapshot of your fertility potential.
AMH and Antral Follicle Count: Are They Reliable?
Together, AMH levels and antral follicle counts provide the most reliable indicators of ovarian reserve. Despite normal AMH levels, an ultrasound might show insufficient active follicles, and vice versa, guiding appropriate fertility interventions.
Enhancing Egg Quality
While aging decreases egg quality, lifestyle adjustments like a balanced diet, regular exercise, and managing stress can improve your reproductive health. Although no tests can pinpoint egg quality directly, maintaining optimal health can support better outcomes.
Medical Insights
It’s advised for women over 35 to seek fertility evaluation if pregnancy doesn't occur within six months of trying. Various tests, including antral follicle counts and hormonal profiles, offer comprehensive insights into one’s fertility landscape.
Understanding Low Ovarian Reserve
A low ovarian reserve doesn't outright prevent natural conception but does influence the response to fertility treatments. The best approach depends heavily on individual health and age.
Conclusion
Your ovarian reserve is a pivotal aspect of your reproductive health. Comprehensive testing and expert guidance at Nicosia Fertility can map out your fertility options, from natural conception to advanced reproductive technologies like IVF and egg donation.
For personalized advice and further discussion, don’t hesitate to contact us through our consultation form or schedule a direct appointment to explore your options in depth. Every woman’s fertility journey is unique, and at Nicosia Fertility, we're here to provide tailored support and expert care every step of the way.
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