If you have been told your AMH is low, your ovarian reserve is diminished, or that your chances of IVF success are limited, you are not alone. For many patients, receiving that kind of news is disorienting and discouraging.
But there is more to consider than a single lab value.
What Diminished Ovarian Reserve Actually Means
Diminished ovarian reserve, often abbreviated as DOR, refers to a reduced number of eggs remaining in the ovaries. It is typically identified through blood tests, including AMH and FSH, along with an antral follicle count measured via ultrasound.
“A low AMH tells us something about how many eggs we can expect to work with. It does not tell us everything about egg quality, and it certainly does not determine what we can achieve together.”
— Dr. Lyndon Chang, Hanabusa IVF
Why Egg Quantity Is Not the Whole Story
There is a common assumption in fertility treatment that more eggs equal better outcomes. For some patients and some situations, a higher yield does offer more options. But this is not universally true.
When it comes to IVF with diminished ovarian reserve, the conversation often has to shift from quantity to quality.
“We take the time to understand each patient’s biology before we choose a protocol. More medication is not always the right answer.”
— Dr. Lyndon Chang, Hanabusa IVF
Real Outcomes: De-Identified DOR Case Examples
| Patient Profile | AMH Range | Age Range | Eggs Retrieved | Blastocysts Formed | PGT Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DOR Case Example 1 | <0.35 | 35–39 | 8 | 3 | 3 euploid |
| DOR Case Example 2 | <0.20 | 39–42 | 4 | 2 | 2 euploid |
| DOR Case Example 3 | <0.40 | 40–43 | 3 | 3 | 1 euploid |
| DOR Case Example 4 | <0.30 | 40–42 | 2 | 1 | 1 euploid |
| DOR Case Example 5 | <0.35 | 43–45 | 7 | 2 | PGT not performed / pending |
| DOR Case Example 6 | <0.20 | 43–45 | 1 | 1 | 0 euploid |
These examples are not intended to predict individual outcomes or represent a comprehensive success-rate report.
How Hanabusa IVF Approaches Complex Fertility Cases
Hanabusa IVF has deep experience treating patients who have been told their chances are low, who have experienced failed IVF cycles elsewhere, or who are navigating fertility challenges with diminished ovarian reserve, primary ovarian insufficiency, or advanced maternal age.
“When a patient has very few eggs to work with, every decision we make in the lab matters even more.”
— Dr. Diana LeBlanc, Hanabusa IVF
What Patients With DOR or Low AMH Should Know Before Starting IVF
- A lower AMH does not automatically mean you need maximum stimulation.
- The number of eggs retrieved is not the only measure of a successful cycle.
- PGT-A testing can provide useful information, but it is not right for every patient.
- Previous failed IVF cycles do not close the door.
- Your age matters, but it is one factor among several.
Who May Benefit From Individualized Fertility Care at Hanabusa IVF
- Patients with low AMH or diminished ovarian reserve at any age
- Patients with primary ovarian insufficiency
- Patients pursuing fertility treatment after 40
- Patients who have had one or more failed IVF cycles
- Patients who experienced a poor response to stimulation
- Patients with high FSH or other markers of reduced ovarian reserve
Book a Consultation
If you are trying to understand which fertility approach may be right for you, Hanabusa IVF can help you explore a plan built around your body, your goals, and your next step.
Related Resources
- Diminished Ovarian Reserve at Hanabusa IVF
- Mini IVF at Hanabusa IVF
- Fertility Treatment After 40
- Failed IVF: Exploring a Different Approach
- Book a Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still do IVF if my AMH is very low?
Yes. A low AMH indicates reduced ovarian reserve, but it does not mean IVF is not possible.
How many eggs do I need for IVF to be successful?
There is no single number that guarantees or rules out success. Outcomes depend on egg quality, fertilization, blastocyst development, chromosomal health, and other factors.
What is an individualized IVF protocol and why does it matter for DOR?
An individualized IVF protocol is designed around a patient’s biology, ovarian reserve, age, and history, rather than a standardized formula.
I had a failed IVF cycle with poor response. Is it worth trying again?
For many patients, a different protocol or clinical approach produces different results.
What is PGT-A and is it recommended for patients with diminished ovarian reserve?
PGT-A screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities before transfer. It can provide useful information, but it is not appropriate for every patient or every cycle.
Is mini IVF the right approach for patients with low ovarian reserve?
Mini IVF may be well-suited for some patients with low ovarian reserve, but it is not the right fit for everyone.
