Understanding Diminished Ovarian Reserve: What It Means and What You Can Do
Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR) is a medical term used to describe a decrease in the number and quality of eggs in a woman’s ovaries. While it’s a natural part of ageing, some women experience this decline earlier than expected—often making it more difficult to conceive naturally.
At Fertility Solutions, we understand how confronting and confusing this diagnosis can be. That’s why we’re committed to providing you with accurate information and access to expert fertility specialists across South Africa.
What Causes Diminished Ovarian Reserve?
Several factors can contribute to diminished ovarian reserve, including:
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Age: Fertility starts to decline significantly after the age of 35.
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Genetic factors: Conditions like Turner Syndrome or Fragile X syndrome.
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Medical treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation, or pelvic surgery.
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Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol use, and obesity.
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Autoimmune disorders: In some cases, the body may attack ovarian tissue.
It’s important to note that DOR can also occur in women with no identifiable risk factors.
Common Symptoms and Diagnosis
Many women with diminished ovarian reserve may not experience noticeable symptoms until they try to conceive. However, potential signs include:
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Irregular menstrual cycles
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Shorter cycles than usual
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Difficulty falling pregnant
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Elevated FSH or low AMH levels on blood tests
A fertility specialist may perform a combination of blood tests and ultrasounds to evaluate your ovarian reserve.
To better understand the testing process, read our article on female fertility assessments.
Treatment Options for Diminished Ovarian Reserve
Although DOR can make conception more challenging, it doesn’t mean pregnancy is impossible. Treatment options may include:
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Ovulation induction and timed intercourse: Best for mild cases.
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Intrauterine insemination (IUI): Sometimes used with fertility medications.
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In vitro fertilisation (IVF): Often recommended, sometimes with donor eggs.
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Fertility preservation: For women not yet ready to conceive but concerned about future fertility.
You can explore more about fertility treatments on our article: Understanding IVF and its Success Rates.
When to See a Fertility Specialist
If you’re under 35 and haven’t fallen pregnant after a year of trying—or over 35 and have been trying for six months—it may be time to consult a fertility specialist. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a significant difference.
We also recommend reviewing our piece on how age impacts fertility to better understand the time-sensitive nature of ovarian reserve.
If you suspect you may have diminished ovarian reserve or are seeking expert guidance on your fertility journey, we encourage you to consult one of the experienced fertility specialists listed on our website.
👉 Visit www.fertilitysolutions.co.za to find a fertility specialist near you and take the next step with confidence.
