I am 35 years old and am having difficulty achieving pregnancy. I am also a type 2 diabetic and struggle with my weight. Is there a way to determine how many eggs I have left?
In women 35 years and older, an infertility evaluation should be sought after 6 months of unprotected intercourse. On the other hand, for those under the age of 35, infertility evaluation is recommended after 12 months of unprotected intercourse unless there are other underlying factors for infertility. These factors may include:
- Congenital or acquired reproductive tract changes
- Prolactinoma
- Endometriosis
- Polycystic ovarian disease
In your case, if you have been attempting to conceive for the past 6 months without success, consider scheduling an appointment with an infertility specialist.
Some women with a BMI greater than 27 may not be ovulating regularly. Weight loss of even 5-10% may restore normal ovulation in these women. Even though this finding may not be true for all women, weight loss is generally recommended for its overall positive effects on your general health and decreased risk during pregnancy.
There are actually specific tests to estimate how many eggs remain. These are tests for "ovarian reserve." Most commonly this can be done through a simple blood test for anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH). You should seek counsel from an infertility specialist who can determine the best evaluation and treatment plan. It is important to investigate certain underlying causes of infertility as it may direct specific treatments.
All My Best,
Speaking of Women's Health Nurse
March 5, 2015 at 2:59pm