Ovarian reserve is a term used to describe the number of eggs still remaining in the ovaries. This varies among women and although women are born with similar numbers of eggs, the rate at which the numbers of eggs declines varies between women. Advancing age will automatically reduce ovarian reserve, but there are other factors which can cause the reserve to be lower than expected such as:

• Previous chemotherapy or radiotherapy
• Family history of premature menopause
• Smoking
• Endometriosis
• Ovarian cysts
• History of pelvic surgery
• History of autoimmune disease

Who should have Ovarian Reserve testing?

At the Womens Health Clinic we offer the following tests for ovarian reserve

• Anti Mullerian Hormone (AMH)

The cost of this consultation with blood tests included is €120

AMH levels are thought to be a direct reflection of the size of a woman’s remaining egg supply. This test can be done on any day of the cycle. AMH testing is done at the Womens Health Clinic on Friday mornings before 11 am.

It is important to remember that you will receive a result from this test – and it may not be good news. You will be counselled about this at the time of consultation, and you may need support in interpreting the results and planning the way forward.