For many women planning to start a family, understanding fertility potential is an essential part of reproductive health. One of the most informative tools available today is ovarian reserve testing. This test helps assess the quantity and quality of a woman’s remaining eggs, which play a vital role in determining fertility.

In this article, we’ll explore what ovarian reserve testing is, why it’s important, the types of tests available, and where you can receive expert reproductive care in Kerala.

What is Ovarian Reserve?

Ovarian reserve refers to the number and quality of eggs a woman has in her ovaries at any given time. Unlike men, who produce sperm continuously, women are born with a fixed number of eggs that decline with age. As the number decreases, so does the potential for conception—making ovarian reserve an important marker of fertility.

Why is Ovarian Reserve Testing Important?

Ovarian reserve testing helps determine how likely a woman is to conceive naturally or with assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like IVF. It is particularly useful for:

• Women over 30 who are trying to conceive
• Women with a history of irregular menstrual cycles
• Those who have had chemotherapy or radiation
• Women with a family history of early menopause
• Planning for fertility preservation (e.g., egg freezing)

Identifying a low ovarian reserve early allows individuals and couples to make informed decisions about fertility treatments, timing, and family planning.

Types of Ovarian Reserve Tests

There is no single test that gives a complete picture of ovarian reserve. Doctors usually recommend a combination of the following:

1. Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) Test
   AMH is produced by the ovarian follicles. A high AMH level usually indicates a good ovarian reserve, while a low AMH level suggests a diminished egg supply. This test can be done at any time during the menstrual cycle.
2. Antral Follicle Count (AFC)
   A transvaginal ultrasound is used to count the number of small follicles in the ovaries at the start of the menstrual cycle. More follicles generally mean better fertility prospects.
3. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test
   FSH levels are checked on day 2 or 3 of the menstrual cycle. High FSH levels may suggest poor ovarian reserve as the body is working harder to stimulate the ovaries.
4. Estradiol Levels
   Estradiol is another hormone tested early in the menstrual cycle. High levels can indicate reduced ovarian function.

Together, these tests provide a comprehensive picture of a woman’s fertility potential.

When Should You Consider Testing?

Most women begin ovarian reserve testing when they encounter difficulty conceiving. However, proactive testing is recommended in the following cases:

• You are over 35 and planning pregnancy soon
• You have undergone pelvic surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation
• You have conditions like PCOS or endometriosis
• You want to delay childbearing but are unsure about future fertility

Early testing can give peace of mind and provide time to explore fertility preservation options like egg freezing.

Where to Get Expert Care for Fertility Testing

For accurate diagnosis and compassionate reproductive care, it is essential to consult a trusted fertility specialist. If you’re in Kerala, consider visiting Samad Hospital—the Best Obstetrics & Gynaecology Hospital in Trivandrum. With advanced diagnostic tools and a dedicated fertility team, Samad Hospital provides comprehensive fertility evaluation and personalised treatment plans. 

Emotional Impact and Support

Fertility challenges can be emotionally taxing. That’s why it’s important to seek not only medical expertise but also emotional support. At leading institutions like Samad Hospital, patients have access to both state-of-the-art care and counselling services, ensuring holistic treatment.

Conclusion

Ovarian reserve testing is a valuable tool in understanding and managing your fertility. By assessing hormone levels and follicle count, you can gain insights into your reproductive timeline and make informed decisions. If you’re considering a fertility evaluation, trust your care to the experts. Samad Hospital in Trivandrum offers comprehensive testing, compassionate guidance, and leading fertility treatments to support your journey to parenthood.

FAQs About Ovarian Reserve Testing

Is ovarian reserve testing painful?

No. Most tests involve a simple blood sample and a transvaginal ultrasound, both of which are minimally invasive.

Can I improve my ovarian reserve?

While the number of eggs cannot be increased, a healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking, and managing stress may support overall reproductive health.

How accurate are ovarian reserve tests?

These tests are good indicators but not definitive predictors of fertility. Results should always be discussed with a fertility specialist.

Can women with low ovarian reserve still get pregnant?

Yes. Many women with low ovarian reserve conceive naturally or with the help of fertility treatments.

Is there a best age to test ovarian reserve?

While ovarian reserve can be tested at any age, it is most relevant for women over 30 who are planning pregnancy or fertility preservation.