Some diseases can negatively affect ovarian function, making conception more difficult, since this is where eggs mature and begin their journey through the fallopian tubes to meet sperm for fertilization. This is a complex process followed by implantation of the embryo in the uterus.
At the same time, the ovaries play another important role — they synthesize essential hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle, endometrial growth, and preparation of the uterus for a possible pregnancy.
During the reproductive period of life, most primordial “dormant” follicles are lost as a result of physiological processes, and only one, less often two, reaches maturity during a menstrual cycle. Thus, ovarian reserve represents the number of available eggs depending on age. The older you become, the lower this number.
Although a woman has two ovaries, they will not both release an egg every month. In some cycles, one ovary may be more active than the other. This fact itself indicates that the presence of both organs is not a mandatory condition for conception.
One ovary: is pregnancy possible?
Yes, but it is also important to understand the woman’s health status, the reason for having only one ovary, age, and ovarian reserve. There are several reasons why a woman may have only one functioning ovary.
Surgical removal (oophorectomy): necessary for removing cysts, tumors, ovarian torsion, or severe endometriosis. Premature ovarian insufficiency: even if the glands are present, they may lose their function, one more abruptly than the other. This condition occurs when the ovaries stop functioning before age 40, which sharply reduces ovarian reserve. Congenital anomalies: in rare cases, some women are born with one ovary. Iatrogenic damage: medical procedures such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy may damage the ovaries, reducing their ability to produce eggs.
In essence, the remaining ovary is often able to compensate for the absence of the other, produce a dominant follicle, and also produce hormones for both, ensuring a normal menstrual cycle and ovulation. Finally, if ovarian reserve is high in the single ovary and ovulation is regular, egg quality does not necessarily deteriorate due to the absence of the second one.
One ovary and fertility: what factors influence it?
As mentioned above, the menstrual cycle is regulated by a complex hormonal balance controlled by the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and the ovaries themselves. The absence of one ovary can sometimes disrupt this balance, but it is not an obstacle to conception.
The determining factor remains maternal age, regardless of whether one or two ovaries are present, since ovarian reserve naturally declines with age. Condition of the fallopian tubes: obstruction or other dysfunctions may lead to infertility. Irregular menstruation is evidence of hormonal disorders that can negatively affect ovulation.
Endometriosis, adhesions in the pelvic area, or other gynecological diseases also negatively affect fertility, regardless of the number of ovaries.
What should you do?
Who should you contact if, despite all your attempts, pregnancy has not occurred? Regardless of the cause, it always makes sense to seek help from reproductive medicine specialists who can guide you and your partner throughout the entire process: from diagnosis to treatment and, possibly, assisted reproductive technologies.
At MC “Bogolyuby”, you can receive comprehensive support from a team of professionals specializing in the evaluation and treatment of infertility, offering individualized programs that take into account your gynecological, metabolic, and endocrine history. Even with only one ovary, thanks to comprehensive diagnostics and specialized treatment, it is possible to increase the chances of natural conception or use assisted reproductive technologies.
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