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As a patient embarking on the IVF journey, over the age of 40, understanding and addressing the nuances of egg quality is extremely important for achieving a successful cycle. In this blog, we delve into the factors impacting egg quality, exploring signs of reduced egg quality and debunking myths around improving egg quality as well as detailing the impact of age on fertility.
How to detect reduced egg quality:
Althought there are no direct tests which measure or detect the quality of the egg; we can indirectly measure the quantity and estimate the quality based on multiple factors. Reduced egg quantity can be indicated through fertility testing which takes place at an initial scan. Booking an initial scan and consultation at IVI UK can allow our fertility experts a comprehensive view of your ovarian reserve ( egg quantity and quality) in order to provide specialist insights into the best treatment options for your needs.
Signs of reduced Ovarian reserve: Egg Quality and Quantity:
- Changes in the length of Menstrual Cycles: Menstrual cycle length or frequency, in individuals over fourty, can be an indicator of hormonal imbalances affecting ovulation and therefore egg quality. Gradual shortening of the menstrual cycle or missed periods, may indicate that your body needs to produce more hormones to recruit a follicle that will lead to ovulation.
- Low Response to Ovarian Stimulation: Limited egg retrieval yields during IVF cycles are often an indication of lower ovarian reserve, which is common in older patients who will have a reduced egg quality.
- Delayed conception:Difficulties concieving naturally becomes common with age and may indicate that released eggs during ovulation dont result in a healthy embryo.
- Pregnancy Loss: Mostly attributed to chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo, are often associated with low egg quality in advanced maternal age.
Age-Related Variability in Egg Quality:
With age, the reproductive landscape undergoes significant changes, leading to altered hormone profiles, reduced ovarian reserve, and a decline in egg quality. While the age is the strongest factor impacting the egg quality, it may be also impaired due to additional causes, such as exposure to toxins, medications, environmental pollution, cigarette smoke, alcohol, radiotherapy or inflammatory diseases in the pelvic area. While egg quality may be impaired due to different reasons, sustained lifestyle modifications and targeted interventions can potentially help to reduce age-related declines in fertility.
How to Enhance Egg Quality Naturally?
Although there aren’t any proven methods to enhance egg quality, lifestyle changes and interventions can help to improve overall health and increase the chances of successful IVF treatment. Some strategies to increase the chance of successful IVF treatment include naturally include:
- Nutritional Optimization: Emphasize a diet rich in antioxidants, micronutrients, and omega-3 fatty acids to combat oxidative stress and support reproductive health. Our specialists at IVI have provided a guideline of the ideal diet for IVF, to assist you in your goals.
- Regular Physical Activity: Incorporate moderate-intensity exercise to enhance blood flow to the ovaries, promoting hormone balance and follicular development.
- Stress Mitigation Techniques: Implement stress-reducing practices such as mindfulness meditation or acupuncture to alleviate psychological stressors that can negatively impact ovarian function.
- Supplementation Protocol: Consider supplements like Coenzyme Q10, Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and Myo-inositol to potentially improve egg quality and mitochondrial function.
- Toxin Avoidance: Minimize exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, pesticides, and heavy metals to safeguard egg health and optimize IVF outcomes. Additionally avoiding smoking and vaping eliminates toxins inhaled with cigarette smoke or through vaping that are detrimental to egg quality.
Treatment Approaches for Low Egg Quality:
In cases of egg quality concerns, our fertility specialists may suggest interventions such as:
- IVF (Invitro Fertilisation)
- Genetic testing (PGT-A/PGS)
- Using donor eggs
These options help to overcome egg quality limitations and maximize the chances of successful embryo development and implantation.
Nurturing Follicular Growth in IVF:
Fertility medications prescribed during IVF stimulate follicle growth. Attending monitoring appointments and communicating any concerns with our team of experts is essential for supporting follicle growth during IVF. This communication can allow for strategic adjustments based on individual patient characteristics.
In conclusion, while age may impact egg quality, adopting a proactive approach towards improving overall health and well-being through lifestyle modifications and natural remedies can enhance the chances of successful IVF outcomes, even for patients over 40. Our specialists at IVI UK are here to provide personalized treatment plans based on your individual needs and circumstances. Booking a consultation with our qualified fertility specialists will allow our team to tailor interventions to your individual needs and maximize the chances of success in your IVF journey.
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