One of the most important factors determining fertility in women ovarian reserve. Ovarian reserve refers to the amount of water found in the ovaries. follicle (egg cell precursors) It represents the number.
In the baby in the womb: 6–7 million eggs
At birth: 1–2 million
During adolescence: 300-500 thousand
Around 37 years old: Approximately 25,000
During menopause: A very small number
As age progresses, both the number and quality of eggs decrease. This reduces both the chances of natural pregnancy and the success rates of IVF treatment.
How is ovarian reserve measured?
Antral follicle count (AFC): During days 2–4 of the menstrual cycle, small follicles visible in the ovaries are counted using ultrasound.
AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): This hormone, measured in the blood, is one of the most reliable indicators of egg reserve.
High: Above 3.5 ng/ml (may indicate polycystic ovary syndrome)
Normal: 1.1–3.5 ng/ml
Low: Below 1.1 ng/ml
FSH and Estradiol (E2): This test is performed on days 2–4 of the menstrual cycle. High FSH and low E2 indicate decreased reserves.
Factors that Reduce Ovarian Reserve
Advancing age
Genetic predisposition, family history of early menopause.
Cigarettes and tobacco products
Endometriosis
Ovarian surgeries, torsion
Chemotherapy and radiotherapy
Reduced Ovarian Reserve and Chance of Pregnancy
When egg reserve decreases, both the likelihood of pregnancy naturally and the success rates of IVF treatment decrease.
Bologna Criteria: Risk factors include being over 40 years old, developing fewer than 3 eggs in a previous IVF treatment, and low AMH or AFC values.
Poseidon Classification: Yaş, yumurta sayısı ve AMH değerlerine göre dört gruba ayırır. Bazı gruplarda canlı doğum şansı %45’e kadar çıkarken, ileri yaş ve düşük rezerv grubunda %10’un altına inebilir.
Treatment and Support for Decreased Egg Reserve
Medical approaches: High or low dose ovarian stimulation, personalized medication protocols.
Supplements: There are studies showing that supplements such as DHEA, Coenzyme Q10, and growth hormone may be beneficial.
Experimental treatments: PRP and exosome applications are still in the research phase.
Genetic screening: PGT-A can select genetically normal embryos, increasing the chance of a live birth.
✨ Remember:
Regular menstruation doesn't always mean you have sufficient egg reserves. Having annual gynecological checkups and ultrasounds to monitor your ovarian reserve is crucial for managing your time effectively.
