Struggling with Infertility? Discover the Truth About Decreased Ovarian Reserve
Dr. Marika Raff • September 25, 2024
Infertility can stem from various factors, one of which is decreased ovarian reserve (DOR). If you’ve been diagnosed with DOR, it’s natural to have questions and concerns about what this means for your fertility and the available treatment options. At Caperton Fertility Institute, we are committed to providing you with the information and support you need. In this blog, we’ll explore what decreased ovarian reserve is, its implications for fertility, and how it can be treated.
What is Decreased Ovarian Reserve?
Ovarian reserve refers to the quantity of a woman’s remaining eggs in her ovaries. As women age, their ovarian reserve naturally declines, but for some, this decline occurs more rapidly than expected, leading to decreased ovarian reserve. This condition can affect women of any age, though it is more common as women approach their late 30s and early 40s.
Causes of Decreased Ovarian Reserve
Several factors can contribute to decreased ovarian reserve, including:
- Age: The most significant factor, as egg quantity and quality decline with age.
- Genetics: A family history of early menopause or DOR can increase risk.
- Medical Treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation, or surgeries involving the ovaries can reduce ovarian reserve.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, including the ovaries.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact ovarian reserve.
Diagnosing Decreased Ovarian Reserve
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and specific tests, including:
- Blood Tests: Measuring levels of Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), and Estradiol can provide insights into ovarian reserve.
- Ultrasound: An antral follicle count (AFC) via transvaginal ultrasound evaluates the number of small follicles in the ovaries, indicating ovarian reserve.
Implications for Fertility
Decreased ovarian reserve means there are fewer eggs available, and those that remain may have diminished quality. This can make it more challenging to conceive naturally. Additionally, DOR may result in a shorter reproductive window and lower success rates with fertility treatments.
Treatment Options for Decreased Ovarian Reserve
While decreased ovarian reserve can be a challenging diagnosis, several treatment options can help manage the condition and improve the chances of conception:
- Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a healthy lifestyle by maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol can positively impact ovarian health.
- Ovarian Stimulation: Medications like Clomiphene Citrate or injectable gonadotropins can stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs in a cycle, increasing the chances of successful conception.
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): IVF can be an effective option for women with DOR. The process involves stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, retrieving them, fertilizing them in a lab, and transferring the resulting embryos to the uterus.
- Egg Donation: For some women, using donor eggs may be the best option. Donor eggs typically come from younger, healthy women, which can significantly improve the chances of a successful pregnancy.
- Fertility Preservation: For women who are not yet ready to conceive but are concerned about their ovarian reserve, egg freezing (oocyte cryopreservation) can be a viable option. This involves retrieving and freezing eggs for future use.
Emotional Support and Counseling
Facing a diagnosis of decreased ovarian reserve can be emotionally taxing. At Caperton Fertility Institute, we understand the importance of emotional support throughout your fertility journey. Counseling and support groups can provide valuable emotional support, helping you navigate the challenges and decisions involved.
A diagnosis of decreased ovarian reserve can feel daunting, but it is not insurmountable. Understanding your condition and exploring the available treatment options can empower you to take proactive steps towards achieving your dream of parenthood. At Caperton Fertility Institute, we are here to guide you every step of the way with personalized care and advanced fertility treatments.
If you have been diagnosed with decreased ovarian reserve or are struggling with infertility, we encourage you to contact Caperton Fertility Institute in Albuquerque, New Mexico, or El Paso, Texas. Our dedicated team of specialists is here to provide you with the support and treatment options you need to achieve your reproductive goals.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us today.
Choosing to pursue parenthood on your own is a powerful and deeply personal decision. For many individuals, becoming a single parent by choice is a thoughtful step rooted in intention, readiness, and hope. If you’re considering fertility treatment without a partner, understanding your options can help you begin this journey with confidence. At Caperton Fertility Institute, we proudly provide inclusive fertility care for single parents by choice , supporting patients through every stage of family building. What Does It Mean to Be a Single Parent by Choice? A single parent by choice is someone who decides to pursue pregnancy or parenthood independently, often with the support of fertility treatment. This path may be chosen for many reasons, including personal readiness, life circumstances, or medical considerations. Single parents by choice may include single women, individuals of diverse gender identities, and people from all backgrounds who are ready to build a family on their own terms. Fertility Treatment Options for Single Parents by Choice Fertility care for single parents by choice is highly individualized. Your age, reproductive health, and goals will help guide treatment recommendations. Common fertility options include: Ovulation induction with donor sperm Intrauterine insemination (IUI) with donor sperm In vitro fertilization (IVF) IVF with genetic testing (PGT) Egg freezing or embryo freezing for future family building Your fertility specialist will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your medical needs and long-term goals. Choosing a Sperm Donor For many single parents by choice, selecting a sperm donor is an important early step in the fertility process. Patients may choose: A donor through a licensed sperm bank A known donor (such as a friend or acquaintance) Both options involve medical screening, legal considerations, and counseling requirements to ensure safety and clarity for everyone involved. Your fertility clinic will guide you through donor selection, testing, and next steps. Emotional Considerations When Pursuing Fertility Treatment Alone While becoming a single parent by choice can feel empowering, fertility treatment often brings a wide range of emotions—excitement, uncertainty, grief, and hope may coexist. Many patients find support through: Fertility-focused counseling Support groups or online communities Trusted friends or family members Open conversations with their care team Emotional well-being is an essential part of fertility care, and support is always encouraged. Financial Planning and Practical Considerations Fertility treatment is an investment, and planning ahead can help reduce stress. Important factors to consider include: Treatment and medication costs Insurance coverage and benefits Time off work for monitoring appointments Long-term planning for pregnancy, parental leave, and childcare Your fertility clinic can help review financial options and connect you with resources early in the process. Building a Support System Single parenthood does not mean doing everything alone. Many single parents by choice intentionally create a strong support network that may include family, friends, or chosen community. Thinking ahead about who can support you during treatment, pregnancy, and early parenthood can provide peace of mind and stability. Why Inclusive Fertility Care Matters Choosing a fertility clinic that understands and supports your path to parenthood is essential. Inclusive fertility care means: Respectful, affirming language Individualized treatment planning A care team that supports your goals without assumptions At Caperton Fertility Institute, we are honored to support single parents by choice through compassionate, expert fertility care . Taking the First Step Becoming a single parent by choice is a meaningful and courageous decision. While the fertility journey may feel complex at times, you don’t need to have every answer before you begin. If you’re exploring fertility care for single parents by choice, our team is here to help you navigate your options with clarity, respect, and support—every step of the way.
Introduction The start of a new year often brings a mix of hope, reflection, and pressure—especially for individuals and couples navigating fertility treatment. While social media may be filled with extreme resolutions and wellness “trends,” true reproductive health is built on sustainable, supportive habits , not perfection. At Caperton Fertility Institute, we encourage patients to approach the new year with intention, balance, and compassion . Below are fertility-friendly wellness trends and habits that can support your overall health in the months ahead. 1. Prioritizing Consistent Sleep Over “Hustle Culture” One of the most overlooked wellness trends gaining traction is sleep optimization . Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep Keep consistent sleep and wake times Limit screen exposure before bed Healthy sleep supports hormone regulation, stress reduction, and immune function—all of which play a role in reproductive health. Trend to watch: Sleep tracking and bedtime routines focused on consistency, not perfection. 2. Gentle, Sustainable Movement In recent years, wellness culture has shifted away from extreme workouts toward intentional movement —and that’s a positive change for fertility. Fertility-friendly movement may include: Walking Yoga or Pilates Strength training in moderation Low-impact cardio Exercise should support your body, not exhaust it. Overtraining can increase stress hormones and disrupt ovulation or cycles. Trend to watch: Low-impact fitness and recovery-focused movement. 3. Supporting Mental Health as Part of Fertility Care Mental and emotional well-being is no longer an afterthought—it’s a central part of whole-person health. Ways patients are supporting mental health in the new year: Therapy or counseling Mindfulness or meditation practices Journaling or gratitude exercises Setting boundaries around fertility-related conversations There is no “right” way to feel during a fertility journey. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. 4. Nourishment Without Restriction Rather than focusing on restrictive diets, many wellness experts are encouraging balanced, nourishing approaches to food . Fertility-friendly nutrition trends emphasize: Whole, minimally processed foods Adequate protein and healthy fats Hydration Listening to hunger and fullness cues Nutrition should support your energy, hormones, and overall well-being—not add stress. Trend to watch: Gentle nutrition and food-as-fuel mindsets. 5. Reducing Stress Where Possible (Not Eliminating It) Stress is a part of life—and fertility treatment—but small changes can make a meaningful difference. Consider: Limiting exposure to stressful media or social comparisons Scheduling intentional rest Practicing deep breathing or relaxation techniques Letting go of unrealistic expectations The goal isn’t a stress-free life—it’s learning how to support your nervous system through challenging seasons. 6. Letting Go of “All-or-Nothing” Resolutions One of the most important wellness shifts this year is moving away from perfectionism. Instead of rigid resolutions, try: Setting flexible, realistic goals Focusing on progress, not outcomes Allowing room for rest and adjustment Fertility journeys are rarely linear. Your health habits can evolve as your needs change. Closing: A New Year Rooted in Support As the new year begins, remember that your fertility journey does not need to be rushed, fixed, or forced. Small, consistent acts of care—physical and emotional—can make a meaningful impact over time. At Caperton Fertility Institute, our team is here to support you through every step of your journey, this year and beyond.
For many, the holidays are filled with joy, connection, and celebration. But for individuals and couples navigating infertility, this season can bring unexpected emotional challenges. Family gatherings, well-meaning questions, and constant reminders of what you’re hoping for can make December feel overwhelming. At Caperton Fertility Institute , we understand that the holidays can be bittersweet when you’re on a fertility journey. You are not alone — and there are ways to protect your emotional well-being while still honoring this season in a way that feels right for you. Why the Holidays Can Be Especially Hard During Infertility The holiday season often centers around family traditions and children, which can intensify feelings of grief, stress, or isolation for fertility patients. Common challenges include: Questions like “When are you having kids?” Pregnancy announcements at gatherings Comparing your journey to others Pressure to feel “grateful” or “positive” It’s okay if the holidays don’t feel joyful right now. Your feelings are valid. Set Boundaries That Protect Your Peace You are allowed to decide how much — or how little — you share about your fertility journey. Helpful boundary-setting strategies: Prepare simple responses in advance (e.g., “We’ll share updates when we’re ready.”) Ask a trusted family member to help redirect conversations Limit time at gatherings that feel emotionally draining Give yourself permission to decline events entirely Boundaries are not selfish — they are an act of self-care. Create New, Gentle Traditions If old traditions feel painful, consider creating new ones that focus on rest and connection rather than expectations. Ideas include: A quiet winter getaway A self-care day with a book, movie, or spa treatment Volunteering or giving back in a way that feels meaningful Celebrating small moments with your partner or support system The holidays don’t have to look like they used to. Lean Into Support Infertility can feel isolating, especially during the holidays. This is a time to lean into safe, understanding support. Consider: Talking openly with your partner about how you’re feeling Connecting with a fertility support group or counselor Limiting time on social media if it increases stress Reaching out to your fertility care team when emotions feel heavy At Caperton, we believe emotional well-being is just as important as medical care. Be Kind to Yourself You don’t have to “stay positive” or push through difficult emotions. Give yourself grace this season: It’s okay to feel hopeful and sad at the same time It’s okay to step away from celebrations It’s okay to prioritize your mental health There is no right or wrong way to experience the holidays while navigating infertility. A Message of Hope If the holidays feel heavy this year, know that your journey matters, and support is always available. Whether you’re just beginning to explore fertility care or are in the middle of treatment, Caperton Fertility Institute is here to walk alongside you — during the holidays and beyond. If you’re ready to talk, plan, or simply ask questions, we’re here when you need us.