The Basics of IVF
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When a decrease in ovarian reserve is identified in women interested in building a family, the degree of decline is assessed using blood tests measuring anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), along with ultrasound evaluation of antral follicles in the ovaries. Treatment recommendations depend on severity and age, ranging from intrauterine insemination (IUI) for mild cases to in vitro fertilization (IVF) for more severe cases or older patients. In cases of very low ovarian reserve or advanced age (e.g., over 45), egg or embryo donation may be considered as options for family building.
Ovarian Reserve: The quantity of eggs remaining in the ovaries, which decreases with age and can affect fertility.
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH): A hormone measured in the blood that indicates the number of remaining eggs in the ovaries.
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH): A hormone involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle, measured to assess ovarian function.
Antral Follicles: Small follicles in the ovaries seen on ultrasound, counted to help assess ovarian reserve; often compared to 'chocolate chips' in appearance.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): A fertility treatment that places sperm directly into the uterus to facilitate fertilization, often used when ovarian reserve is mildly decreased.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): An assisted reproductive technology involving fertilization of an egg outside the body, recommended for more severe ovarian reserve decline or older patients.
Egg Donation: A process where eggs from a donor are used to help build a family, considered in cases of very low ovarian reserve or advanced maternal age.
Embryo Donation: Using embryos donated by others to assist with family building when own egg quality or quantity is insufficient.