Egg reserve, also known as ovarian reserve, is a critical factor in a woman’s fertility. As women age, their egg reserve naturally declines, leading to decreased fertility starting in the early 30s and accelerating after age 35. However, a recent discussion by Dr. Anjali Kumar, an expert in women’s health, revealed that some women could experience a more rapid decline.
Causes Of Premature Decline of Egg Reserve
Declining egg reserve, medically known as Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR), is primarily caused by the natural aging process; women are born with a finite number of eggs. Other contributing factors include genetic predispositions, medical treatments like chemotherapy or radiation, conditions such as endometriosis and PCOS, lifestyle choices like smoking or high stress, and exposure to environmental toxins.
Signs Of Declining Egg Reserve
Dr. Kumar shared key signs that might indicate a rapid decrease in egg reserve. Recognizing these signs is crucial for those trying to conceive or optimizing their fertility:
1. Irregular or Missed Periods
One of the first signals of egg reserve decline is irregular or skipped periods. As egg count decreases, hormonal imbalances can disrupt the regularity of menstruation. Dr. Kumar noted that a consistent cycle might change, making periods unpredictable. If you’re experiencing early, late, or missed periods, it’s advisable to discuss this with your gynecologist.
2. Hot Flashes or Night Sweats
Hormonal fluctuations due to reduced egg reserve can cause symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats, often associated with menopause. Dr. Kumar noted that these symptoms can also manifest during early stages of egg reserve decline.
3. Fatigue and Low Energy
Those experiencing unusual fatigue or low energy may see this as a signal from their egg reserve. Hormonal changes connected to reduced egg reserve can disrupt sleep quality and contribute to overall low energy levels.
4. Trouble Conceiving
Challenges in conceiving can indicate declining egg reserves. Even with a regular cycle, a low egg count can hinder pregnancy efforts. Women trying to conceive for over six months without success should consult a fertility expert for ovarian reserve assessment.
5. Family History of Early Menopause
Family history significantly influences the timeline of egg reserve decline. Dr. Kumar noted that if a woman’s mother or grandmother experienced early menopause, she might be at higher risk as well.
What Can You Do?
If you notice these signs, seeking professional advice is crucial. Dr. Kumar recommends testing and screenings to clarify reproductive health and support informed decisions about fertility. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—eating well, managing stress, and exercising—can also support reproductive health.
Bottomline
Even though some factors like genetics are beyond control, being proactive about fertility health empowers women to navigate their personal journeys. Whether you’re beginning to consider family planning or facing fertility challenges, resources and support are available to you.
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