What is ovarian reserve and why is it so important for fertility?
By Dr. Elena Melía — Women's Unit, Ruber International Hospital
At the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital, one of our main goals is to support women throughout all stages of their reproductive health. That's why today I want to talk to you about a fundamental concept when we talk about fertility: ovarian reserve.
What is the ovarian reserve?
The ovarian reserve is the number of oocytes (eggs) that a woman has at a given time in her life. Although we are born with around two million oocytes, this figure naturally decreases over time. By adolescence, when the first menstruation appears, this reserve has already been reduced to about 200.000 oocytes. From the 35 years in the Making, this decline is accelerating, affecting not only the number but also the quality of the eggs. Around the 50 years in the Making, ovarian reserve is usually practically non-existent.
How is ovarian reserve measured?
There are two main ways to assess ovarian reserve:
- Analytical determination: through an analysis of the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), a reliable and stable marker during the menstrual cycle.
- Transvaginal ultrasound: allows you to count the antral follicles, small sacs in the ovaries that contain developing eggs.
Are ovarian reserve and oocyte quality the same thing?
No. Although they are related, they are not equivalent. The quality of the eggs is more closely linked to the edad of the woman than the quantity. Thus, a young woman with a low reserve can still have good quality eggs and, therefore, a chance of pregnancy.
What is oocyte vitrification?
La oocyte vitrification It is a technique that allows eggs to be frozen at their peak quality. It is ideal to do this before the 35 years, when the oocyte quality is optimal. The procedure consists of ovarian stimulation, oocyte extraction and ultra-rapid freezing that preserves until the 90% of eggs after defrosting.
When is vitrification indicated?
Vitrification is an especially useful option for women who:
- They want to postpone motherhood for personal or professional reasons.
- They have one low ovarian reserve at early ages.
- They are going to submit to Medical treatments that may affect your fertility, such as chemotherapy.
Does this guarantee a future pregnancy?
We cannot promise absolute results. While it is estimated that between 8% and 20% of vitrified eggs come to be used, statistics show that if they are vitrified 10 to 15 oocytes before age 35, there are about a 70% chance to achieve pregnancy.
Oocyte vitrification increases the odds of becoming a mother in the future, but it is crucial to keep in mind that it is not only the number of eggs that can be vitrified that matters, but the moment it is doneAt the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital, we're here to help you make informed decisions about your fertility.
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If you found this article interesting and would like to be seen by a professional expert in Gynecology and Obstetrics, the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital has a specialized unit in this area. You can request more information by calling the following numbers: 91 387 51 72/73/74 or make an appointment for an in-person consultation, always with the best specialists.