Ovarian Reserve Testing

Ovarian reserve testing relates to the tests undertaken to understand a woman's ovarian reserve. In particular, there are two key tests when undertaking ovarian reserve testing; antral follicle count and AMH blood tests. Together these two tests provide an accurate assessment of the female reproductive potential. Ovarian reserve is extremely helpful in fertility treatment planning as it is important as it can indicate what the response will be to the stimulation of the ovaries and the potential for success.

Antral Follicle CountAMH Blood Test
Ultrasound assessment during a fertility consultation

Antral Follicle Count

The antral follicle count is the number of antral follicles that are present at the beginning of the cycle and have the potential to grow and become competent follicles (antral follicles are small follicles (2-9 mm) that we can see, measure and count. These can, with reasonable accuracy, be counted through an internal vaginal ultrasound examination. The sum of the antral follicles in the ovaries can indicate what the fertility potential is of the woman and importantly what the response will be to treatment involving stimulation of the ovaries, particularly for egg freezing and in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Therefore, this is an important test in planning fertility treatments and understanding the success potential.

AMH Blood Test

Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) Blood Test

Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) hormone is a hormone produced by the ovarian follicles, therefore levels of AMH often relate to the number of antral follicles in the ovary but AMH levels in isolation depict the remaining lifespan of the ovaries, i.e. how much time is there left. The level of AMH in the blood can thus indicate how many egg-containing follicles are available in the ovaries with the potential to ovulate. In other words, the AMH level can tell us the size of the ovarian reserve.

AMH declines naturally with age and high levels can suggest polycystic ovaries, which is important when considering fertility treatments such as IVF.

Who Is Ovarian Reserve Testing Suitable For?

For Women Considering Future Pregnancy

Since fertility naturally declines with age, we strongly recommend ovarian reserve testing for: Women over 35 (whether planning pregnancy now or later) and anyone wanting to understand their current fertility status.

Those with Known Fertility Issues

Women diagnosed with or suspected of having fertility-related conditions can greatly benefit from these tests to pinpoint underlying issues.

Family Planning

Ovarian reserve testing is also suitable for women who wish to understand their fertility timeline better.

Treatment Planning

Women undergoing fertility treatments like IVF may need ovarian reserve testing to optimise treatment protocols.

What's Included

Fertility Plus offers a complete package for ovarian reserve testing (initial egg count package) either to determine your fertility potential and how much time there is left or to help with fertility treatment planning.

  • Up to 45 minute consultation with consultant fertility specialist
  • AMH blood test
  • An ultrasound scan to assess the follicles in your ovaries
  • Results review with consultant fertility specialist