ABIMS Fertility & Andrology

OVARIAN REJUVENATION

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR WOMEN WITH LOW OVARIAN RESERVE This is for women who have been diagnosed with low ovarian reserve, premature ovarian insufficiency, or chronic PCOS, and are exploring options to conceive using their own eggs. The desire to conceive with one’s own eggs is completely valid and deeply personal. However, when ovarian reserve is diminished or absent, options become more limited. One experimental approach currently being explored is known as ovarian rejuvenation. Ovarian rejuvenation refers to a research-based, experimental procedure aimed at stimulating or restoring ovarian function in women with low or absent egg reserves. It is hypothesized to potentially reactivate dormant or aging ovarian tissue, possibly leading to the production of viable eggs. However, it is important to note that this treatment is not yet proven, and its efficacy and safety have not been fully established in large-scale clinical studies. There are three proposed methods of ovarian rejuvenation: 1. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy – Involves injecting PRP directly into the ovaries. It is thought to help stimulate follicle development and improve ovarian function. This is currently the most commonly used technique in countries like Nigeria. 2. Stem Cell Therapy – Involves the use of stem cells (often from the patient’s own bone marrow or adipose tissue) to potentially regenerate ovarian tissue. 3. In vitro Activation – This involves using certain agents or compounds to trigger dormant follicles to resume growth. Before considering any form of ovarian rejuvenation, it is essential to: Undergo a full reproductive hormone panel, including Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) testing, to assess your current ovarian reserve. Consult with a board-certified fertility specialist Patients should be fully informed and cautious, as many clinics may offer these services without sufficient scientific backing or regulatory approval. Final Thoughts: While the idea of ovarian rejuvenation offers hope, it is important not to make decisions based on hype or pressure. Always seek evidence-based advice from qualified medical professionals, and remember that this approach remains investigational at this time. 

Uterine Cramping After Ovulation

Experiencing uterine cramps after ovulation, either continuously until your next menstrual period or several days after ovulation, may be linked to different underlying causes. Two common possibilities include: 1. Incomplete Follicular Maturation or Follicular Persistence In some cases, ultrasound reports may show the presence of dominant follicles; however, some follicles may not have matured fully or may fail to rupture. When eggs do not reach maturity or are not released, these persistent follicles can lead to the formation of ovarian cysts. This process may trigger pelvic discomfort or cramping after ovulation. 2. Progesterone Insufficiency or Impaired Endometrial Response After ovulation, progesterone plays a key role in preparing the uterine lining (endometrium) for implantation. Low progesterone levels can cause uterine contractions or cramping due to inadequate support for implantation. In some cases, a woman may have normal progesterone levels, but the endometrium may not respond effectively to the hormone—a condition sometimes referred to as reduced endometrial receptivity. Why Evaluation is Important If you experience persistent cramping after ovulation, it is important to consult a qualified healthcare professional. Hormonal evaluation, pelvic ultrasound, and endometrial receptivity assessment may be required to identify the cause. Addressing hormonal imbalance, improving follicular development, and enhancing endometrial receptivity can increase the chances of successful implantation and pregnancy.