What is ovarian reserve and why is it so important when planning a pregnancy?

We often talk about age as a major factor in fertility, but actually behind it is something more specific — ovarian reserve. This is one of the most important indicators in reproductive medicine and is the basis for an individual approach to each woman, especially in vitro procedures.

What does “ovarian reserve” mean?

In simple words, this is an indicator of the quantity and quality of eggs that a woman still has. A woman is born with a certain number of eggs — about 1 to 2 million. By puberty, about 300—400 thousand remain. Then, with each ovulation and monthly cycle, the number decreases. But it's not just the quantity — the quality also changes with age.

How is ovarian reserve measured?

The most commonly used markers:
- AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) — the most accurate laboratory indicator. High values = better reserve.
- FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) — measured at the beginning of the cycle. High values = depletion of ovarian reserve.
- AFC (antral follicular count) — ultrasound counts the small follicles in the ovaries at the beginning of the cycle.

Why is ovarian reserve important?

• Determines how the body will react to stimulation in vitro;
• Helps to choose the most appropriate protocol;
• Gives a forecast of the number of eggs that can be extracted;
• It helps to assess whether it is necessary to act earlier;
• With a low reserve — the possibility of freezing eggs before it is completely depleted.

What does Ovarian Reserve NOT Mean?

- It is not a prediction of whether you will get pregnant naturally today;
- Does not predict with certainty the success or failure of IVF;
- Can not estimate the exact quality of the eggs — only approximately.

How does it change with age?

- Up to 30 years — usually women have a good reserve;
- 30—35 years — still stable, but beginning to gradually decline;
- 35—40 years — reduction of eggs and their quality;
- Over 40 years — significantly lower reserve, less chance of genetically healthy embryos.

Important: sometimes the reserve is also low in young women, due to autoimmune, genetic or idiopathic reasons.

What to do if the reserve is low?

- Do not delay treatment - every month counts;
- Discuss with your doctor the possibility of egg freezing;
- If necessary — possibility of donor egg in the future;
- Take care of your lifestyle - stress, smoking and poor nutrition affect further.

Conclusion

Ovarian reserve is a key part of the reproductive picture of every woman. The earlier it is evaluated, the more time and opportunities it has for reaction. In our clinic, we approach this indicator with attention and believe that every woman deserves to be informed so that she can manage her time and decisions on her own.

We believe in an individual approach, in science and in human care. Therefore, in addition to innovative methods and high level of work in the laboratory, we are proud of several charity campaigns that we organized — because giving a chance for life is a privilege, but also a responsibility.

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