How Ovarian Reserve Is Measured and Evaluated
Both biochemical blood tests and ultrasound imaging of the ovaries are part of ovarian reserve tests. Basal Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol, Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and Antral follicle count (AFC) are widely used for the assessment of ovarian reserve.
FSH and estradiol: FSH and estradiol levels in the blood are measured at the start of the menstrual cycle (day 2 or 3). Hormone levels show the way of working of ovaries and the pituitary gland together. The pituitary gland releases FSH, which helps to grow the follicle. Usually, FSH levels are low at the start of the menstrual cycle and then increase causing a follicle to grow and the egg to mature. During this time follicle releases estradiol. Higher levels of estradiol stimulate the pituitary gland in turn to make less FSH.
A high FSH level indicates reduced ovarian reserve and therefore a reduced chance to conceive. A diagnosis of depletion of eggs or sterility will need additional more reliable tests to confirm, such as Anti-Mullerian hormone and Antral follicle count.
Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is considered to be one of the most accurate tests to evaluate ovarian reserve. Elevated level of AMH is associated with increased numbers of mature oocytes, embryos and ultimately a higher clinical pregnancy rate.
Antral follicle count (AFC) refers to the number of follicles measuring 2-10 mm in diameter as assessed by transvaginal ultrasound scan. The number of antral follicles indicates the number of eggs available and the likely response to hormonal stimulation medications.
What Ovarian Reserve Test Results Indicate About Fertility
These tests predict a woman’s response to fertility treatment and chances of getting pregnant compared to other women of the same age. An abnormally low ovarian reserve test indicates the diminished fertility potential of a woman.Ovarian reserve tests are used to develop a treatment plan for the patient undergoing IVF.
Key Takeaways on Ovarian Reserve Testing and Reproductive Planning
Ovarian reserve is the quantity of eggs a woman is left with in the ovaries at any age. The quality of the eggs decreases with reducing quantity. It therefore represents a woman’s ability to conceive either naturally or with assisted conception.
If there is a risk of prematurely reduced ovarian reserve, you may be advised to consider fertility preservation.
At ART fertility clinics, our experienced doctors can guide you when to test for ovarian reserve and advise you of the best way forward if your ovarian reserve is reduced.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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How do doctors check a woman’s egg count?
Doctors assess ovarian reserve using biochemical blood tests and ultrasound imaging. Key methods include measuring Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels, which can be checked at any point in the cycle, and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Estradiol levels at the start of the menstrual cycle. Additionally, an Antral Follicle Count (AFC) is performed via transvaginal ultrasound to visualize the number of active follicles, providing a clear indication of the remaining eggs available for fertilization.
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What is the AMH test, and what does it measure?
The Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) test is a blood assessment used to evaluate a woman’s ovarian reserve. It measures the levels of AMH produced by small, growing follicles in the ovaries. Higher AMH levels typically correlate with a greater yield of eggs during fertility treatments.
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When should women consider getting their ovarian reserve tested?
Women should consider testing if they are over 35, have been trying to conceive unsuccessfully for over 6 months, or have a family history of early menopause. Testing is also vital for those with medical conditions like endometriosis or prior ovarian surgery, as well as those undergoing medical treatments like chemotherapy. It serves as a proactive step for reproductive planning and helps guide decisions regarding fertility preservation.
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How much does ovarian reserve testing typically cost in clinics?
The cost of ovarian reserve testing in the UAE depends on the location and the specific evaluation option chosen. Testing can be done through a standalone Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) test, a Female Fertility Assessment package (which includes an ultrasound scan, an AMH blood test, and a specialist consultation), or a Couple Fertility Screening package. For current pricing, promotional offers, and insurance coverage details, please visit the ART Fertility Clinics Pricing & Offers Page.
