The capacity of the ovary to produce healthy eggs can be considered as an ovarian reserve. This number and quality of eggs would result in a successful pregnancy. However, if the quantity and quality of eggs are lower than expected at a particular age can be termed as a low ovarian reserve.
One could still get pregnant under low ovarian reserve, but at times there would be difficulty in conceiving. The menstrual cycle could either be late or shorter and even there can be a heavy flow. Seldom low ovarian reserve cause miscarriage. However, there are treatments to improve this condition.
Causes
Several factors cause low ovarian reserve, such as:
- Age
- Smoking
- Excess consumption of alcohol
- Endometriosis
- Tubal diseases
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Infections in the pelvic area
- Autoimmune disorders
- Genetic abnormalities
- Mumps
Treatment
There are chances to conceive even with low ovarian reserve, but early diagnosis and treatment could help improve the chances better. Ovarian reserve assessment would be recommended by the doctors to know the functioning and the quality of the ovary. Usually, it is suggested for couples who are planning for a child.
Depending on the condition and the result of ovarian reserve assessment, the doctor would suggest for IVF or other treatments. The most common treatment to improve the low ovarian reserve would be certain medications such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which is a mild androgen. The levels of DHEA decreases with age, but the supplements could help increase fertility.
At Smile Baby IVF, the doctors would perform ovarian reserve assessment for couples who are planning for a baby. Proper treatment will be provided if identified with a low ovarian reserve.