Limited ovarian reserve refers to a reduced number of eggs in the ovaries. The supply of eggs decreases with increasing age. This is a natural process. Also, not all women have the same number of eggs in their ovaries. Some women have small ovaries with fewer eggs and still become mothers without any problems. Apart from the natural decline in the ovarian reserve, genetic factors, chronic illnesses, ovarian surgery or certain medical therapies, such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy, can also lead to a premature reduction in the ovarian reserve.
According to current knowledge, a woman's ovarian reserve is limited from birth. The ovaries do not produce any new eggs in the course of a woman's life. The so-called egg reserve - the ovarian reserve - is therefore finite. This biological fact makes it clear why age and the individual ovarian reserve play such a central role in the assessment of fertility.
To determine a woman's ovarian reserve, the number of maturing follicles (known as antral follicles) is counted as part of an ultrasound examination. In addition, the concentration of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in the blood is measured. Both values - the number of follicles in the ultrasound and the AMH value - together with the patient's age, provide important information as to whether there is an age-appropriate ovarian reserve or a restriction.
In fertility diagnostics, it is helpful to determine the ovarian reserve before starting treatment. The information obtained allows our medical team to better assess the functionality of the ovaries and to make a more realistic assessment of egg quality and the chances of success of a possible treatment. Depending on the ovarian reserve, the treatment protocol can be adapted accordingly.
The diagnosis of a limited ovarian reserve can be emotionally challenging for affected women. At our fertility center in Olten and Basel, we therefore not only attach great importance to a sound medical assessment, but also to personal and empathetic care. Together with our patients, we develop individual solutions to make the best possible use of their remaining fertility and accompany them on the path to fulfilling their desire to have children with professional expertise and human closeness. After all, quality is at least as important as quantity.