Dr Sabia Mangat https://drsabiamangat.in Wed, 29 Oct 2025 05:23:18 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://drsabiamangat.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/cropped-favicon-1-32x32.png Dr Sabia Mangat https://drsabiamangat.in 32 32 Understanding Diminished Ovarian Reserve: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options https://drsabiamangat.in/diminished-ovarian-reserve-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/ https://drsabiamangat.in/diminished-ovarian-reserve-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/#respond Thu, 18 Sep 2025 14:31:41 +0000 https://drsabiamangat.in/?p=1865

Understanding Diminished Ovarian Reserve:

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Fertility challenges can feel overwhelming, especially when terms like diminished ovarian reserve come into the picture. This condition is increasingly recognized among women trying to conceive, both in their 20s and 30s. But with advanced medical care and a better understanding of ovarian health, it is possible to manage and even overcome this challenge.

In this blog, we will explain what diminished ovarian reserve means, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and the treatment options available for women hoping to achieve pregnancy.

 

What Does Diminished Ovarian Reserve Mean?

Diminished ovarian reserve means that a woman has fewer eggs in her ovaries than expected for her age. Every woman is born with a fixed number of eggs, which gradually decline in quantity and quality with time. But for some women, this decline happens earlier or faster than usual.

It’s very important to note that diminished ovarian reserve vs premature ovarian failure are not the same. In diminished reserve, the ovaries still function and ovulation may occur, whereas premature ovarian failure means the ovaries stop functioning entirely before the age of 40.

Causes of Diminished Ovarian Reserve

It is important to understand the causes of diminished ovarian reserve for timely diagnosis and treatment. Some of the contributing factors are:

  • Age: Natural decline is expected after 35, but in some cases, it occurs earlier.
  • Genetics: A diminished ovarian reserve genetic link has been observed, meaning family history may increase risk.
  • Medical Treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation, and ovarian surgeries can accelerate decline.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, obesity, and chronic stress can negatively affect ovarian health.
  • Autoimmune Conditions: Sometimes, the body mistakenly attacks ovarian tissue.

Diminished Ovarian Reserve Symptoms & Signs

Many women don’t realize they have this condition until they begin fertility testing. Still, there are subtle signs of diminished ovarian reserve to watch for:

  • Shorter menstrual cycles
  • Lighter or irregular periods
  • Difficulty conceiving despite regular attempts
  • Low ovarian hormone levels

Typical diminished ovarian reserve symptoms overlap with natural age-related fertility decline, which is why professional diagnosis is important.

Diminished Ovarian Reserve Criteria & Diagnosis

Doctors use diminished ovarian reserve criteria to evaluate ovarian health. This is done through both blood tests and imaging.

The standard diminished ovarian reserve diagnosis includes:

  • AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) Test: Low diminished ovarian reserve AMH levels indicate fewer remaining eggs.
  • FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) Test: Elevated levels on Day 3 of the cycle may signal reduced ovarian function.
  • Ultrasound (Antral Follicle Count): Fewer follicles seen during a scan may suggest lower ovarian reserve.

These diagnostic tools provide a clearer picture of egg count and reproductive potential.

 

Diminished Ovarian Reserve Criteria & Diagnosis

Doctors use diminished ovarian reserve criteria to evaluate ovarian health. This is done through both blood tests and imaging.

The standard diminished ovarian reserve diagnosis includes:

  • AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) Test: Low diminished ovarian reserve AMH levels indicate fewer remaining eggs.
  • FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) Test: Elevated levels on Day 3 of the cycle may signal reduced ovarian function.
  • Ultrasound (Antral Follicle Count): Fewer follicles seen during a scan may suggest lower ovarian reserve.

These diagnostic tools provide a clearer picture of egg count and reproductive potential.

AMH and Its Role in Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is a key hormone produced by small follicles in the ovaries. It reflects the number of eggs a woman has left, making it one of the most reliable markers of diminished ovarian reserve.

  • Low AMH Levels: A low AMH result often signals a reduced egg supply. However, it’s important to note that AMH alone does not determine fertility potential, it simply indicates the number of eggs, not their quality.
  • AMH and Age: Naturally, AMH levels decline with age, but in women with diminished ovarian reserve at 30 or even in their 20s, levels may drop earlier than expected.
  • AMH in Diagnosis: Along with other tests like FSH and antral follicle count, AMH helps fertility specialists establish the diminished ovarian reserve criteria and create the most suitable treatment plan.

AMH and Treatment Options: Women with diminished ovarian reserve AMH levels that are lower than average may benefit from tailored protocols such as mild stimulation IVF or treatments supported by supplements and lifestyle changes.

Diminished Ovarian Reserve at 30 and in the 20s

Hearing about diminished ovarian reserve at 30 can be distressing, especially for young women. While ovarian reserve usually declines in the mid-30s, some women experience this condition much earlier.

Even rarer, diminished ovarian reserve in 20s can occur, often linked to genetics or medical treatments. Early detection and fertility planning in such cases are essential.

Can You Get Pregnant Naturally with Diminished Ovarian Reserve?

A common concern is whether diminished ovarian reserve natural pregnancy is possible. The answer is yes, in some cases. Women with diminished reserve can still ovulate and release eggs, though the chances may be lower. Remember, natural conception is not out of reach. With lifestyle modifications, supplements, and timely medical support, it can be made possible.

Fertility Treatments for Diminished Ovarian Reserve

If natural pregnancy doesn’t occur, fertility treatment for diminished ovarian reserve offers hope. Some effective strategies include:

  • IVF: A customized diminished ovarian reserve IVF protocol may involve higher stimulation doses or mild stimulation cycles to optimize egg retrieval.
  • ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): Improves fertilization rates by directly injecting sperm into the egg.
  • Egg Donation: In some cases, donor eggs offer the best chance for pregnancy.

Many women achieve diminished ovarian reserve success with advanced fertility treatments, especially when guided by an experienced specialist.

When to Seek Help from a Specialist

Early intervention makes a big difference. If you’re under 35 and have been trying to conceive for over a year, or over 35 and trying for six months, it’s time to consult a fertility specialist. Women with irregular cycles, known signs of diminished ovarian reserve, or family history of early menopause should not delay testing.

The sooner you seek help, the more treatment options remain open, increasing your chances of success.

FAQs

It means the number of eggs in the ovaries is lower than expected for a woman’s age.

 The main causes include aging, genetic factors, medical treatments, and lifestyle influences.

 Yes, though they are different conditions. PCOS affects ovulation patterns, while diminished reserve reduces egg quantity.

 While stress alone does not directly cause diminished reserve, it can affect hormone balance and overall reproductive health.

 Doctors use AMH, FSH, and ultrasound follicle counts as part of the diagnostic process.

Yes, IVF with tailored protocols often provides the best chance of success for women with diminished reserve.

 Consult a fertility specialist, undergo tests, consider supplements, and explore fertility treatments early.

 Generally, AMH levels below 1.0 ng/mL suggest diminished reserve, though interpretation varies with age.

 Yes, some women can conceive naturally, though chances may be reduced. Timely planning is essential.

DHEA, CoQ10, and Vitamin D are commonly recommended, but supplements should be taken under medical supervision.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Time Decide for You

A diagnosis of diminished ovarian reserve can feel discouraging, but it does not mean the end of your fertility journey. With early detection, appropriate medical care, lifestyle adjustments, and personalized treatments, many women go on to experience healthy pregnancies.

At Dr. Sabia Mangat’s clinic, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care for women facing fertility challenges. Whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, or beyond, there are options and hope for building your family.

]]> https://drsabiamangat.in/diminished-ovarian-reserve-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/feed/ 0 What Is the Best Age for IVF Treatment? https://drsabiamangat.in/what-is-the-best-age-for-ivf-treatment/ https://drsabiamangat.in/what-is-the-best-age-for-ivf-treatment/#respond Mon, 28 Jul 2025 17:25:42 +0000 https://drsabiamangat.in/?p=419

What Is the Best Age for IVF Treatment?

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What Is the Best Age for IVF Treatment?

The decision to start a family is something deeply personal. It’s often influenced by career aspirations, personal relationships, and health conditions. Thanks to progress in assisted reproductive technologies such as In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), numerous individuals and couples are considering these methods to achieve their parenting dreams. A key question that often comes up in this process is: What is the best age for IVF treatment?

At Dr. Sabia Mangat’s fertility clinic in Chandigarh, we understand that timing can be everything. This detailed guide is designed to help you understand the relationship between age and IVF, regardless of whether you are in your late 20s or early 40s. It covers how age affects your chances, the scientific insights, and the options available to you.

Why Age Matters in IVF

Age is a key factor in fertility, both naturally and with IVF. As women get older, the quantity and quality of their eggs decrease. This reduction impacts:

  • Egg Quality: Older eggs are more likely to have chromosomal issues.
  • Embryo Implantation: The uterine lining becomes less welcoming as women age.
  • Miscarriage Rates: The likelihood of miscarriage rises with the mother’s age.
  • IVF Success Rate: The overall probability of achieving a successful pregnancy diminishes with age.

Knowing the best age for IVF treatment can help you make informed and realistic decisions about family planning.

What Is the Best Age for IVF Treatment?

Experts believe that the best age for IVF treatment is from 25 to 35 years. In this time frame:

  • Ovarian Reserve: More viable eggs available.
  • Egg Quality: Best quality for fertilisation.
  • Uterine Health: Improved receptivity for embryo implantation.
  • Hormonal Balance: More stable hormonal conditions.

Women in their 20s and early 30s usually respond positively to ovarian stimulation and tend to have a greater number of healthy eggs collected during the IVF process. This greatly enhances the likelihood of successful fertilisation and implantation.

 

IVF Success Rate by Age:

Age Group

IVF Success Rate (per cycle with own eggs)

 

 

<35

50% to 60%

35–37

45% to 55%

38–40

35% to 45%

41–42

10% to 20%

>43

5% or lower

This data shows how the IVF success rate by age declines gradually after 35 and sharply after 40.

Age Limit for IVF with Own Eggs

The age limit for IVF with own eggs differs by country and clinic. In India, many fertility clinics recommend that women under 45 pursue IVF with their own eggs. Nevertheless, the success rates decrease notably after the age of 38. Women over 40 might be advised to look into using donor eggs for better success rates.

Maximum Age for IVF in India

According to the National ART Registry of India (NARI), the legal age limit to undergo IVF is 50 years for women and 55 years for men. However, most ethical clinics, including ours, recommend IVF with own eggs up to age 42–45 only. After this age, the quality of eggs starts to decline drastically.

What Is the IVF Age Limit India Punishment?

Many individuals look for information on the IVF age limit India punishment, but there are no legal consequences for attempting IVF beyond a specific age. Nonetheless, clinics are advised against offering IVF to women over 50 using their own eggs because of health and ethical issues.

The ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) guidelines aim to safeguard both the mother and the child. Breaching these age guidelines could lead to the clinic losing its license or registration.

IVF After 35 – Is It Still Possible?

Yes, IVF after 35 is feasible and becoming more common. Many women today successfully conceive in their late 30s and early 40s with medical help.

However, it’s crucial to know:

  • Fewer Eggs Retrieved: The number of eggs declines with age.
  • Higher Risk of Chromosomal Abnormalities: Greater chances of genetic problems.
  • Increased Miscarriage Rate: More likelihood of losing a pregnancy.

To improve results, doctors might suggest genetic testing (PGT-A), embryo freezing, or using donor eggs based on your situation.

When Is the Best Time to Get IVF?

From a medical point of view, the best time to get IVF is when:
  • You are under 35.
  • Your AMH and FSH levels are normal.
  • You’ve been trying to conceive for over a year without success.
  • You have issues like PCOS, endometriosis, or unexplained infertility.
Starting early gives you the best chance, both emotionally and physically.  

Understanding Ovarian Reserve and Its Impact on IVF Success

A woman’s ovarian reserve indicates the number and quality of her remaining eggs. As women get older, these aspects decrease, impacting fertility. By the age of 30, a woman usually has around 12% of her ovarian reserve, which drops to about 3% by age 40.

To evaluate ovarian reserve, fertility experts often check Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels and perform antral follicle counts using ultrasound.

AMH levels give information about the remaining egg supply, aiding in predicting how a woman may respond to ovarian stimulation during IVF. However, it’s important to understand that while AMH is a helpful indicator, it doesn’t ensure IVF success, as other factors such as egg quality and uterine health are also very important.

The Role of Male Age in IVF Outcomes

Although there is a strong focus on the age of women in fertility talks, the age of the male partner also plays a crucial role in the success of IVF. As men get older, the quality of their sperm can deteriorate, resulting in higher DNA fragmentation, which can impact embryo growth and implantation success rates. Studies indicate that men over 40 may see a drop in sperm motility and an increase in sperm DNA fragmentation, which could lower the likelihood of successful fertilisation. Thus, assessing male fertility factors is an essential part of the IVF process, particularly when the female partner is older.

Leveraging Advanced Technologies to Improve IVF Success Rates

Improvements in reproductive technology have greatly enhanced IVF results, especially for older couples. One innovation is the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in choosing embryos. AI-driven systems examine embryo growth patterns to forecast their viability, helping embryologists pick the best embryos for transfer.

Moreover, Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A) enables the examination of embryos for chromosomal issues before transfer. This method is particularly useful for women over 35, as it assists in identifying embryos with the best chances for successful implantation and a healthy pregnancy.

By incorporating these advanced technologies into IVF procedures, clinics can boost success rates, minimise the number of cycles needed, and enhance the chances of a healthy live birth, even for older parents.

These findings highlight the complex nature of IVF treatment and the significance of tailored strategies that take into account both partners’ ages, ovarian reserve, and the advantages of modern technologies.

FAQs

The ideal age is between 25 and 35, as egg quality and ovarian response are optimal.

IVF success rate by age is highest in women under 35.

When you have tried naturally for over a year and are under 35 and you have several failed IUI cycles or have known fertility issues.

Yes, many women conceive through IVF after 35. However, success rates decline with age.

The injections may cause mild discomfort. Egg retrieval is done under sedation and is painless.

Yes. IVF babies are as healthy and normal as naturally conceived babies.

Yes. IVF with donor eggs, especially from young donors, increases success rates significantly.

IVF cost in India ranges from ₹90,000 to ₹2.5 lakh per cycle, depending on medications, lab work, and treatment type.

  1. Ovarian stimulation
  2. Egg retrieval
  3. Fertilisation in the lab
  4. Embryo transfer
  5. Pregnancy test

Generally, 8 to 12 hormone injections are required during ovarian stimulation.

The male partner’s sperm is usually used. Donor sperm is used in specific cases after couple ‘s written and informed consent.

Common side effects include bloating, cramping, mood swings, and mild bruising at injection sites. Serious side effects are rare.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Time Decide for You

IVF brings great hope, but its success is heavily influenced by age. If you are considering fertility treatment, starting sooner increases your chances. At Dr. Sabia Mangat’s clinic, we offer fertility counselling that is appropriate for your age and provide clear care tailored to your specific needs.

Keep in mind, the best age for IVF treatment isn’t merely a figure; it also involves your health, emotional readiness, and the support you have. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sabia today for personalised guidance to take charge of your reproductive future.

If you live in Chandigarh or nearby areas like Mohali, Panchkula, Zirakpur, Kharar, or Baddi, our fertility clinic is ready to assist you in beginning your journey with confidence.

]]> https://drsabiamangat.in/what-is-the-best-age-for-ivf-treatment/feed/ 0 The Process for Fertility Preservation: A Revolution in Reproductive Choice https://drsabiamangat.in/fertility-preservation-revolution-in-reproductive-care/ https://drsabiamangat.in/fertility-preservation-revolution-in-reproductive-care/#respond Sat, 26 Jul 2025 06:11:02 +0000 https://drsabiamangat.in/?p=320

The Process for Fertility Preservation

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The Process for Fertility Preservation: A Revolution in Reproductive Choice
The decision to start a family is something deeply personal. It’s often influenced by career aspirations, personal relationships, and health conditions. Thanks to progress in assisted reproductive technologies such as In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), numerous individuals and couples are considering these methods to achieve their parenting dreams. A key question that often comes up in this process is: What is the best age for IVF treatment?

At Dr. Sabia Mangat’s fertility clinic in Chandigarh, we understand that timing can be everything. This detailed guide is designed to help you understand the relationship between age and IVF, regardless of whether you are in your late 20s or early 40s. It covers how age affects your chances, the scientific insights, and the options available to you.

What is the process of fertility preservation?

In the case of women, it is called Egg Freezing. Technically, it’s a sequence of hormonal stimulation, egg retrieval, and then freezing the mature eggs using a rapid-cooling technique called vitrification. 

Let’s walk through it. Slowly, without skipping any essential parts.

Consultation

First, you meet a fertility specialist. They ask about your lifestyle, your periods, your goals, and maybe even your fears. Then come the tests for starting the process for freezing eggs. It includes blood work to check your hormone levels (AMH, FSH, estradiol), and an ultrasound to count the number of follicles in your ovaries.  It also helps estimate how well your body might respond to the egg freezing process.

Here’s something not everyone knows: According to a study published in Human Reproduction, the number of mature eggs retrieved in a cycle varies widely, but generally, retrieving at least 10–15 mature eggs before age 35 offers a good chance of future pregnancy.

Daily hormone injections

For about 10–12 days, you’ll be receiving  hormone shots. They’re meant to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the usual one which grows naturally in every menstrual cycle . 

Blood tests and ultrasounds happen every few days. This part of the process for freezing eggs requires patience.

Once the follicles are ready, your doctor schedules the egg retrieval. A final injection, called the “trigger shot”, helps your eggs mature in time.

Egg retrieval

You will be sedated for the procedure which takes about 10-15 minutes. Using ultrasound guidance, the doctor gently inserts a needle to collect the eggs from each follicle. After the procedure is done, you will wake up a little groggy but okay. You can rest for a while, have a light meal and go home.

By the next day, you’re back on your feet. Most women report mild cramping or soreness, but it passes quickly.

Meanwhile, in the lab, the embryologist checks how many eggs are mature enough to freeze. Those are vitrified, frozen at lightning speed, and stored safely.

That’s it. Your eggs are officially frozen.If your partner is available for example if the lady is married, retreived eggs can be fertilized with husband ‘s sperms, and resulting embryo s can be frozen.

Why are women freezing their eggs?

The reasons, honestly, are changing.

Earlier, egg freezing was mostly done for medical reasons, before chemotherapy, pelvic radiation, or ovarian surgery. But that’s only part of the story now.

Today, more women are freezing their eggs as a proactive measure. A 2022 report by The Lancet suggested a sharp rise in elective egg freezing worldwide, especially among women aged 29–38. In India too, urban clinics have reported a 50% rise in egg freezing cycles over the past 3–5 years.

The shift isn’t just medical. It’s cultural. It’s economic. And maybe even emotional.

Women want choice. And timing. And some breathing room.

Frozen eggs cost: what should you know?

The cost of the whole process for freezing eggs in India can range anywhere from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh per cycle. That includes medications, monitoring, egg retrieval, and freezing. But it doesn’t always include annual storage fees, those can be ₹15,000 to ₹30,000 per year.

And you may need more than one cycle to bank enough eggs. Especially if you’re over 35 or have a low ovarian reserve.

So yes, egg freezing cost in India can add up. But it might also save you the cost, emotional and financial, of more complex fertility treatments later.

One way to look at it: You’re not buying time. But maybe, you’re renting peace of mind.

Success rates: is it worth it?

According to ASRM (American Society for Reproductive Medicine), the chance of a live birth from frozen eggs depends on age at the time of freezing and the number of eggs stored. For women under 35, using 15–20 frozen eggs may offer up to a 70% chance of a future live birth. For women above 38, the success rate drops.

The earlier you start the process for freezing eggs, the better your odds. But it’s not a guarantee. Just an option. A chance.

Male Fertility Preservation (Semen Freezing)

Semen freezing is also known as sperm cryopreservation. This is a method used to preserve male fertility for future use. It involves collecting a semen sample, evaluating its quality, and then freezing it at extremely low temperatures. This process is commonly recommended before medical treatments like chemotherapy, or for men who want to plan ahead for personal reasons. Stored sperm can later be used in fertility treatments such as IUI or IVF.

FAQs

 Start with a fertility consultation. Then comes hormone stimulation, egg retrieval, and freezing via vitrification.

Not exactly. The injections can sting. The retrieval is done under sedation. Mild bloating or cramps may follow, but it’s manageable.

 Your ovaries are stimulated to produce multiple eggs. Those eggs are retrieved, frozen, and stored for future use in IVF.

 It involves four stages: consultation, stimulation, retrieval, and vitrification.

 It’s a method to preserve fertility by freezing mature eggs or semen for future fertilisation.

Usually ₹1.5–2.5 lakh per cycle, plus yearly storage fees.

It’s Not About Delay. It’s About Design.

If there’s one thing the fertility preservation process represents, it’s choice. The kind that allows couples to design their lives, not race against them.

At Dr. Sabia Mangat’s clinic, we understand how nuanced and deeply personal this decision is. So if you’re planning ahead or dealing with a medical condition that leaves little room for delay, we’re here to guide you through the process for freezing eggs and semen with clarity, empathy, and care.

Because sometimes, it’s not about when. It’s about how well you’re prepared for what comes next.

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