Ovarian reserve  testing is part of the battery of diagnostic tests to determine the causes of  infertility. It is a 2-part test which includes an ultrasound to look at your egg follicles and a blood test to check Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Assay.  Measured on day 3 of the menstrual cycle, FSH is a hormone responsible for the development of the egg. An elevated FSH is associated with a low chance of pregnancy.

I haven’t polled physicians, but I think one of the reasons they don’t suggest the test is that they don’t want to add any more pressure on women to make babies. Some may also feel that if you have no signs of infertility, why worry about it. We already know that age is still the most influential factor in assessing  fertility. The number of antral follicles can decrease as much as 60% between the ages of 22 and 42 in normal women. Medically speaking, the test only reflects your ovarian health the day you take the test. Lifestyle choices, an unforeseen accident or disease will all affect ovarian reserve.

Generally, insurance companies will not cover the test unless it is part of full diagnostic fetility testing. The test can be expensive but if you are thinking of your life plan, having an idea of your ovarian health would be useful to reconcile work and family priorities or goals. If you take the test before age 32 and a problem is detected, you have a better chance at successful fertility treatment.

Just knowing I could know makes it irresistible.

In general, there is a lack of research and news coverage of women’s health topics today. So we’re bringing it to you…

We want to share the whole story behind the news you’re already reading so you’re empowered to make the best decision regarding your health and care.

…and we want to hear what concerns you. What are YOU Googling?

BTW, we’ll be consulting with our women’s health experts to give you the straight story.

Don’t forget! Any medical decisions should be made after you and your physician discuss your specific health history.