Determining poor egg quality isn't straightforward, as there's no single definitive test. However, several indicators suggest potential issues. Difficulty conceiving, especially for women over 35, is a major sign. This is supported by numerous sources. Other factors point towards reduced egg quality:
Signs of Poor Egg Quality
- Difficulty Conceiving: Struggling to get pregnant, particularly after trying for an extended period, is a strong indicator. This is a common symptom of poor egg quality.
- Irregular or Elongated Menstrual Cycles: Inconsistent periods can suggest hormonal imbalances affecting egg maturation. This is another sign of potential issues.
- Recurrent Miscarriages: Poor egg quality can lead to embryos that fail to implant or result in miscarriage. A poor-quality egg struggles to develop a healthy embryo.
- Advanced Maternal Age: Egg quantity and quality naturally decline with age. Egg quality diminishes with age. Women over 35 are more likely to experience difficulties.
- Low Ovarian Reserve: Tests such as AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) levels and antral follicle count can indicate a lower than average number of eggs or reduced egg quality. Low AMH reflects decreased ovarian cell function related to egg production, while a low follicle count directly indicates fewer available eggs. Low estradiol levels also signal issues, as estradiol is crucial for egg maturation. Oestradiol is key in egg maturation and the menstrual cycle. These tests, however, don't directly measure egg quality, but rather the ovarian environment that supports egg production and development.
- Abnormal Chromosome Number: Chromosomal abnormalities in eggs can lead to fertilization problems or embryo failure. This is a significant marker of poor oocyte quality.
Important Note:
While these signs suggest potential problems, definitive diagnosis requires medical evaluation. There is no single test to directly assess egg quality. Fertilization attempts and subsequent embryo development provide the most direct assessment. There's no direct test for egg quality. Consult a fertility specialist for a proper assessment and guidance.
