Reduced Ovarian Reserve
Reduced ovarian reserve can significantly impact fertility and cause emotional distress.
Dr Salem El Shawarby, an expert in reproductive medicine and infertility, offers comprehensive care and support for individuals facing diminished ovarian reserve in Abu Dhabi. By addressing both physiological challenges and emotional well-being, Dr Salem provides personalised and individualized treatment plans to optimise ovarian function and enhance fertility potential.
Understanding Reduced Ovarian Reserve
Reduced, diminished or low or poor ovarian reserve refers to a decrease in the quantity of a woman’s oocytes (eggs).
This condition signifies a reduced potential for conception and decreased fertility due to a decreased quantity and sometimes compromised quality of eggs.
This condition can impact the fertility of a woman as it may:
- Make it difficult to conceive naturally
- Lower the success rate with fertility treatment
- Increase the risk of miscarriage
- Lead to an early onset of menopause
Causes of Diminished Ovarian Reserve
As women age, the number and quality of eggs naturally decline. This decline accelerates after the age of 35
Some women may have a genetic predisposition to earlier depletion of ovarian follicles.
Certain surgeries like ovarian cyst surgeries such as endometriosis or medical treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy for cancer treatment can affect ovarian function and reduce ovarian reserve.
Conditions like autoimmune ovarian insufficiency and some thyroid and adrenal problems may diminish ovarian reserve.
Exposure to specific toxins or chemicals in the environment may impact ovarian function.
Smoking has been linked to earlier menopause and low ovarian reserve.
If you suspect you have diminished ovarian reserve at 30 or above, it’s important to consult with a fertility expert to determine the underlying cause and discuss potential treatment options.
Symptoms of Diminished Ovarian Reserve
Diminished ovarian reserve may not show noticeable symptoms in its early stages. As it progresses, some women may notice signs that require attention. These symptoms can overlap with other reproductive or hormonal issues, underscoring the need for a medical consultation for an accurate diagnosis.
Common low ovarian reserve symptoms include:
- Irregular menstrual cycle or shorten time between cycles as compared to before
- Fertility struggles
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood changes
Diagnosis: Ovarian Reserve Test
Ovarian reserve testing involves both blood tests and ultrasound to assess the size of your ovarian egg pool.
- Blood Tests: These are the most common methods to evaluate ovarian reserve by measuring specific hormone levels in the blood. It includes:
- Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) Test: Measures AMH levels in the blood, indicating the number of potential eggs remaining in the ovaries.
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test: Checks FSH levels on day 2 of the menstrual cycle; elevated levels may indicate reduced ovarian reserve.
- Ultrasound: A transvaginal or trans-abdominal (e.g in virgins) ultrasound early in your cycle measures the number of small fluid-filled pockets (antral follicles) in your ovaries, each containing an egg. This count helps assess your egg supply for fertility evaluation.
Diminished Ovarian Reserve Treatment
Treatment for diminished ovarian reserve typically focuses on improving chances of conception and may include:
This involves using medications, such as pills or injectable hormones, to stimulate the ovaries and increase the number of recruited eggs produced per cycle, raising the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.
IVF is a more advanced fertility treatment that uses fertility medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. These eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilized and then implanted into the uterus. This process can be particularly beneficial for women with diminished ovarian reserve as it maximises the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.
Genetic Testing permits the examination of embryos for genetic anomalies before their implantation.
promising and early days, as PRP treatment is under ongoing clinical research
Seeking guidance from a reproductive and fertility expert like Dr. Salem is important for creating a personalized treatment plan. He can evaluate individual circumstances, recommend appropriate interventions, and provide continuous support throughout the fertility journey.
Dr Salem El Shawarby - Overcoming Reduced Ovarian Reserve for Future Fertility
While diminished ovarian reserve can pose challenges in achieving pregnancy, modern fertility treatments offer hope and potential solutions.
If you are experiencing symptoms of diminished ovarian reserve or have concerns about your fertility, consulting with an experienced fertility consultant is essential. Dr Salem El Shawarby, a reproductive medicine consultant with almost 30 years of expertise, has dedicated more than 10 years to advancing fertility care in Abu Dhabi. His unwavering commitment to improving patient outcomes firmly establishes his role as a trusted advisor in the field.
