A normal Antral Follicle Count (AFC) typically falls within the range of 5-17 in healthy females with proven natural fertility.
While the range of AFC can vary, depending on the individual and the context (e.g., fertility issues), an AFC between 5 and 17 is generally considered normal for women with a history of natural conception. This range indicates a healthy ovarian reserve.
Here's a breakdown of what AFC signifies and why it's important:
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What is AFC? Antral Follicle Count (AFC) is a measure of the number of small follicles (2-10mm in diameter) visible in both ovaries during a transvaginal ultrasound, typically performed during the early follicular phase (days 2-5) of the menstrual cycle.
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Why is AFC Important? AFC provides an estimate of a woman's ovarian reserve, which refers to the quantity and quality of her remaining eggs. It's a key factor in assessing fertility potential.
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Normal Range: As stated above, for women with proven natural fertility, an AFC between 5 and 17 is generally considered normal. The median value for this group is often around 13.
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AFC and Infertility: Lower AFC values might indicate diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), which is associated with decreased fertility potential. For women presenting with infertility complaints, the AFC range is often 5-20, with a median value of 9. This suggests that women with infertility may have, on average, lower AFC values than those with proven fertility.
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Higher AFC Values: While less common, very high AFC values can be associated with conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
In summary, a "normal" AFC for a woman with proven fertility generally falls between 5 and 17. However, interpretation should always be done in conjunction with other fertility markers and a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional.
