Latest news with #Anti-MüllerianHormone
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
More than just irregular periods: How PCOS affects fertility and why it's easier to manage than you think
Many women in India believe irregular periods are just how their body works – something that will 'get better with time'. For years, they live with unpredictable menstrual cycles, sudden acne, unexplained weight gain or thick facial hair. Some might even know that this is due to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome ( PCOS ) but don't realise its actual impact till they try to conceive and start facing issues. PCOS affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age and 70-80% of those women face fertility challenges due to hormonal imbalances. Clearly, it is one of the most prevalent hormonal disorders in women but also heavily misdiagnosed. The connection between PCOS and fertility PCOS impact ovulation – release of an egg from the ovary – in multiple ways. At the root of PCOS is a hormonal imbalance , often driven by insulin resistance and increased visceral fat. This metabolic disruption leads to higher levels of insulin and androgens (male hormones), both of which interfere with normal ovulation and menstrual cycles. Without routine ovulation, it becomes harder to predict fertile windows or conceive naturally. The hormonal disturbances due to PCOS can also have consequences on egg quality and maturation. All of this makes it more difficult to conceive naturally. And if pregnancy does happen, women with PCOS are at slightly increased risk for complications such as miscarriage, gestational diabetes, and high blood pressure. But prompt treatment and ongoing monitoring can minimise these risks immensely. The symptoms of PCOS aren't merely cosmetic or emotional concerns – they are your body's signals informing you of a hormonal imbalance. PCOS may also creep up on metabolic health and long-term cardiovascular well-being. Why early awareness is a game-changer Being aware of your reproductive health and fertility in your 20s and early 30s helps you plan better and make informed decisions at the right time. Early tests like AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) to determine ovarian reserve, Antral Follicle Count (AFC) by ultrasound and insulin and testosterone levels can provide valuable information for timely action. Managing PCOS is easier than you think The good news about PCOS is that it is one of the most manageable reproductive conditions, especially when identified early, and approached with the right support. Here's what works 1. Even a 5-10% weight loss restores ovulation 2. Hormonal control is provided by a low-glycemic index diet 3. Exercise and sleep are foundational as both reduce insulin resistance 4. Mental health support is crucial, as PCOS is often linked with anxiety and low mood 5. For women trying to conceive, ovulation induction medications, folic acid supplements, IUI, or IVF can significantly improve chances, especially when supported by a personalised treatment plan. The real power? Knowledge + action PCOS may feel complex but it's not a permanent roadblock to your dreams, especially if you don't ignore the signs early on and consult in a timely manner. It's important that reproductive health be treated as a regular focus to improve life instead of an emergency when planning a family and things aren't working out. Reproductive health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being. Authored by: Dr Rakhi Goyal, Fertility Specialist, Birla Fertility & IVF, Chandigarh The link between PCOS and insulin resistance One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Time of India
24-04-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Bengaluru doctors see rising cases of low ovarian reserve in women in their 20s & 30s
Bengaluru: Fertility specialists across Bengaluru are raising a red flag: Low ovarian reserve , a condition traditionally seen in women nearing their 40s, is now increasingly being diagnosed in much younger women. More women in their 20s and early 30s, who are planning their pregnancies, are walking into fertility clinics only to discover their egg count is significantly lower than expected for their age. Low ovarian reserve usually doesn't present with any or unnoticeable symptoms. Doctors warn this shift could have serious implications for fertility planning and reproductive health. You Can Also Check: Bengaluru AQI | Weather in Bengaluru | Bank Holidays in Bengaluru | Public Holidays in Bengaluru Dr Manjunath, deputy medical director at Birla Fertility and IVF, told TOI he sees at least 40 cases a month. "Every alternate patient, in the age group of 20 to 30 years we see now, has a low egg reserve. The number rose exponentially in the last two decades." He explained a woman is born with all the eggs she'll ever have — about 1 to 2 million. By puberty, it drops to 3–4 lakh. And by 30? Just around 70,000. From there, the decline picks up speed. "Now, more young women are now facing egg depletion faster than expected, even when they're years away from planning a pregnancy. While age remains the most significant factor, it is a mix of urban lifestyle choices, environmental exposure, and delayed family planning. The biological clock is set. We can't reset or slow it," he said. Dr Priyanka Das, consultant obstetrician, gynae laparoscopic surgeon & infertility specialist, Altius Hospital, sees about 10 to 15 such cases every month. "Stress, pollution, processed diets, and hormonal disruptors in plastics and cosmetics may all be contributing," she said. The Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) level is a key marker for egg reserve. A healthy range is between 2 and 4 ng/mL. Anything below 1 is considered critically low. The Antral Follicle Count (AFC)—the number of egg follicles seen on an ultrasound—is also used. A normal AFC ranges between 6–10 follicles per ovary. "When AMH drops below 1, and AFC shows 2 to 5 follicles, we call that severely diminished reserve," said Dr Meghana Nyapathi, cluster head at Milann Fertility Hospital. "We see 30 patients a month who now present with this." This isn't just about getting pregnant. The quality of eggs also declines, increasing the risk of miscarriage and chromosomal issues. Dr Manisha Singh, additional director - gynaecologist & subspecialist in reproductive medicine & surgery at Fortis Hospital, explained, "Only one egg ovulates each month. The rest die unused. And with age or damage from things like smoking or surgeries, the remaining ones may be poor in quality." She added there is an increase in the rise of conditions like endometriosis that lead to cyst formation in the ovary, which can also compromise the egg reserve. Dr Meghana Nyapathi, cluster head - reproductive medicine at Milann Fertility Hospital, said, "Approximately 30% of patients each month present with low ovarian reserve, leading to difficulties in conceiving. Sadly, a poor ovarian reserve is generally not reversible." Precautions: Quit smoking Limit alcohol intake Follow a balanced diet Maintain healthy body weight Manage stress Plan pregnancy before 35
Business Wire
21-04-2025
- Health
- Business Wire
During National Infertility Awareness Week, New Survey Uncovers Fertility Care Knowledge Gaps
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week, HRC Fertility, one of the largest providers of advanced fertility care, has released new data underscoring the important need for better fertility education and more inclusive care. The March 2025 nationwide survey, commissioned by HRC Fertility in partnership with Propeller Insights, polled more than 1,000 U.S. adults ages 18–44 to understand their fertility care knowledge, treatment preferences and care expectations. The findings reflect a population eager to learn more, yet underserved when it comes to accurate information, access and culturally competent support. Support Beyond the First Cycle 78% of survey respondents said they would be interested in a complimentary second IVF cycle if the first was unsuccessful. This highlights the emotional and financial weight families carry when undergoing fertility treatment and the importance of inclusive packages. For many families, access to compassionate care isn't enough. Predictable pricing and peace of mind are also key. Programs like HRC Fertility's Promise Package and its popular Dream Package help reduce the emotional burden of uncertainty while reinforcing HRC Fertility's commitment to real-world support. 'With our various all-inclusive packages, and sites accessible from San Diego and Orange County, to Pasadena, Encino, Beverly Hills and the Bay Area, our goal at HRC Fertility is to educate and provide options for all walks of life when considering family building options for the future or to start their families now,' shares Kerry Ayazi, administrative President at HRC Fertility. 'These latest survey results illuminate the need for more fertility education and access and we are glad to support both.' AMH Testing Remains Underrecognized The survey found that 63% of adults have never heard of Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) testing, a standard blood test that helps assess ovarian reserve and fertility potential. Yet 70% said they would attend a free informational session about AMH if given the opportunity. This widespread interest reflects a gap in basic fertility education and a clear opportunity for proactive outreach. Complimentary AMH testing is being added to educational events that are increasingly offered through HRC Fertility, which stands behind its commitment to expanding access to fertility care education. Fertility Benefits are Largely Unknown When it comes to employer-sponsored fertility coverage, more than half of survey respondents reported not knowing what fertility benefits they currently have or whether their insurance plan covers reproductive services at all, including through plans offered by their employer. This lack of transparency can prevent patients from accessing care when they need it most. HRC Fertility works directly with patients to navigate insurance questions, providing support from initial pre-authorization through claims submission and follow-up. 'I could not agree more on our commitment to access within reach and a transformation of family planning,' said Dr. John Wilcox, MD, Chair of HRC Fertility. 'We are ready to support patients coming to us both under existing plans as well as the new California mandated coverage plans to come; we also aim to bring this vision to Nevada soon too, with our new Las Vegas site slated to open this year, led by our own Dr. Bradford Kolb, MD.' Methodology HRC Fertility commissioned the nationwide Propeller Insights survey of more than 1,000 U.S. adults, aged 18 to 44, to assess their knowledge and attitudes about fertility, treatment options, benefits access and inclusive care. The survey was conducted in March 2025. About Propeller Insights Propeller Insights is a full-service market research firm based in Los Angeles. Using quantitative and qualitative methodologies to measure and analyze marketplace and consumer opinions, they work extensively across industries such as travel, brand intelligence, entertainment/media, retail and consumer packaged goods. About HRC Fertility HRC Fertility is one of the largest providers of advanced fertility treatments, boasting locations across the Bay Area as well as Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties, with its Las Vegas location coming soon. Welcoming individuals, couples and families from all walks of life, HRC Fertility is dedicated to helping preserve family building options for the future or start a journey towards family building now. For detailed information about HRC Fertility's services, locations and providers, please visit:
Associated Press
21-04-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
During National Infertility Awareness Week, New Survey Uncovers Fertility Care Knowledge Gaps
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Apr 21, 2025-- In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week, HRC Fertility, one of the largest providers of advanced fertility care, has released new data underscoring the important need for better fertility education and more inclusive care. The March 2025 nationwide survey, commissioned by HRC Fertility in partnership with Propeller Insights, polled more than 1,000 U.S. adults ages 18–44 to understand their fertility care knowledge, treatment preferences and care expectations. The findings reflect a population eager to learn more, yet underserved when it comes to accurate information, access and culturally competent support. Support Beyond the First Cycle 78% of survey respondents said they would be interested in a complimentary second IVF cycle if the first was unsuccessful. This highlights the emotional and financial weight families carry when undergoing fertility treatment and the importance of inclusive packages. For many families, access to compassionate care isn't enough. Predictable pricing and peace of mind are also key. Programs like HRC Fertility's Promise Package and its popular Dream Package help reduce the emotional burden of uncertainty while reinforcing HRC Fertility's commitment to real-world support. 'With our various all-inclusive packages, and sites accessible from San Diego and Orange County, to Pasadena, Encino, Beverly Hills and the Bay Area, our goal at HRC Fertility is to educate and provide options for all walks of life when considering family building options for the future or to start their families now,' shares Kerry Ayazi, administrative President at HRC Fertility. 'These latest survey results illuminate the need for more fertility education and access and we are glad to support both.' AMH Testing Remains Underrecognized The survey found that 63% of adults have never heard of Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) testing, a standard blood test that helps assess ovarian reserve and fertility potential. Yet 70% said they would attend a free informational session about AMH if given the opportunity. This widespread interest reflects a gap in basic fertility education and a clear opportunity for proactive outreach. Complimentary AMH testing is being added to educational events that are increasingly offered through HRC Fertility, which stands behind its commitment to expanding access to fertility care education. Fertility Benefits are Largely Unknown When it comes to employer-sponsored fertility coverage, more than half of survey respondents reported not knowing what fertility benefits they currently have or whether their insurance plan covers reproductive services at all, including through plans offered by their employer. This lack of transparency can prevent patients from accessing care when they need it most. HRC Fertility works directly with patients to navigate insurance questions, providing support from initial pre-authorization through claims submission and follow-up. 'I could not agree more on our commitment to access within reach and a transformation of family planning,' said Dr. John Wilcox, MD, Chair of HRC Fertility. 'We are ready to support patients coming to us both under existing plans as well as the new California mandated coverage plans to come; we also aim to bring this vision to Nevada soon too, with our new Las Vegas site slated to open this year, led by our own Dr. Bradford Kolb, MD.' Methodology HRC Fertility commissioned the nationwide Propeller Insights survey of more than 1,000 U.S. adults, aged 18 to 44, to assess their knowledge and attitudes about fertility, treatment options, benefits access and inclusive care. The survey was conducted in March 2025. About Propeller Insights Propeller Insights is a full-service market research firm based in Los Angeles. Using quantitative and qualitative methodologies to measure and analyze marketplace and consumer opinions, they work extensively across industries such as travel, brand intelligence, entertainment/media, retail and consumer packaged goods. About HRC Fertility HRC Fertility is one of the largest providers of advanced fertility treatments, boasting locations across the Bay Area as well as Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties, with its Las Vegas location coming soon. Welcoming individuals, couples and families from all walks of life, HRC Fertility is dedicated to helping preserve family building options for the future or start a journey towards family building now. For detailed information about HRC Fertility's services, locations and providers, please visit: View source version on CONTACT: Caroline Kamerschen [email protected] KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA CALIFORNIA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: MEN GENERAL HEALTH HEALTH PARENTING CHILDREN FAMILY BABY/MATERNITY CONSUMER SOURCE: HRC Fertility Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 04/21/2025 09:03 AM/DISC: 04/21/2025 09:03 AM
Yahoo
18-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Consider freezing your eggs if you're in your 20s - it's less expensive than you think
Many women are having children later in life due to factors such as prioritising careers, not being read and the cost-of-living crisis. Last year, the UK fertility rate fell to the lowest it's been since 1970. But, as most women are aware, there's a significant decline in a female's fertility from the age of 30, so it can become more difficult to get pregnant after this point. Nothing like a ticking biological clock to add to your mental load. Love Island star Anna Vakili, 34, has raised awareness of future-proofing fertility by documenting her egg harvesting process on social media, admitting she "regrets" not starting the process sooner. "There is so much I didn't know about fertility in my 20s which I wish I did, but I'm still so grateful that I am able to do this now," she wrote on Instagram. Elsewhere, Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison shared her egg freezing journey at 35 and received overwhelming backlash as a result of her honesty over not wanting children yet. "People were saying 'why don't you just have a baby now you've got a boyfriend?' It is so toxic and outdated. I know so many people who had children with the wrong men because they were scared that they were running out of time," she told the BBC. "Why aren't we celebrating women who say 'this isn't the right time and I want to give my future children the best start in life'? It is so important we all know there are many different routes to motherhood." Actor Florence Pugh underwent the same process last year at age 27, after she was diagnosed with PCOS and endometriosis and encouraged to get her 'egg count' checked. "And I was like, 'No, what do you mean? I'm so young. Why do I need an egg count?'", she said, before adding: "I learned completely different information, at age 27, that I need to get my eggs out and do it quickly, which was just a bit of a mind-boggling realisation." TV presenter Kirsty Allsop has encouraged women to have children during their 20s in the past, writing in a tweet: "If you want kids, if you are in your late 20s and if you are in a solid relationship and if you can afford it have kids. It does NOT get easier the later you leave it." Women are born with all the eggs they will ever have (around 1-2 million), but this declines over time to around 400,000 by puberty and less than 100,000 by their late 30s. In your 20s, there are more eggs available to harvest and lower chromosomal abnormalities for instance Down syndrome risk increases from 1 in 1,250 at 25 to 1 in 100 at 40. "Eggs retrieved before 30 have fewer chromosomal abnormalities, increasing the likelihood of successful fertilisation," Dr Deepali Misra-Sharp, NHS GP and women's health specialist explains. "As women age, eggs accumulate DNA damage, increasing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and miscarriage. Freezing eggs at a younger age captures them in their best condition." One of the ways ovarian reserve is measured is by the level of Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AHM) women have in their body. They have the highest level during their 20s, before this hormone declines in the mid-30s so by around age 37, 90% of women's eggs are depleted. Dr Misra-Sharp explains that this means "younger women typically have higher AMH levels and better ovarian response, meaning more eggs can be retrieved in one cycle." With the better egg quality and hormone health in your 20s, there's also a correlation with the likelihood of IVF being a success with these eggs. Dr Misra-Sharp continues: "When frozen eggs from a woman in her 20s are used later, success rates mirror those of a younger woman. By age 40, the miscarriage rate is around 50%, compared to 10-15% in the 20s." In your 30s, fertility starts to decline for a host of reasons such as lower levels of AMH so less ovarian reserve and producing less quality eggs each month, so freezing your eggs in your 20s leaves lots of options open. "Freezing eggs reduces the pressure of a 'biological clock', allowing women to focus on careers, relationships, or health before having children," Dr Misra-Sharp adds. One of the main deterrents of egg freezing is the cost, but prices vary from clinic to clinic. On average it costs around £3,350 to have your eggs collected and frozen and then it's around £125 to £350 to store the eggs per year, according to Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Acting early may also mean you're entitled to up to three rounds of free IVF on the NHS, which is capped at the age of 35 in some parts of the UK. Compared to a house deposit, which averages around £36,000 in the UK according to Zoopla, the cost of egg harvesting is a much smaller savings goal that's also an investment in your future. Dr Misra-Sharp adds: "For women considering egg freezing, the earlier, the better in terms of success rates. However, it is not a guarantee of future pregnancy, and individual factors like ovarian reserve, medical history, and personal circumstances should be considered. "If egg freezing is an option, consulting a fertility specialist early can help assess AMH levels, ovarian reserve, and the likelihood of success." Read more about egg freezing and fertility: Fertility rate in England and Wales falls to lowest level since records began in 1938 (Sky News, 2-min read) Plunging birth rate makes London UK's fastest-ageing city (The Telegraph, 3-min read) Why Young People Need To Learn About Fertility Now More Than Ever (Huff Post, 4-min read)
