It is possible to get pregnant with one ovary, a common concern for individuals who have undergone a unilateral oophorectomy or were born with a single ovary. The remaining ovary often adapts to maintain reproductive function. Conception hinges on the health and compensatory ability of this ovary, as well as other influencing factors.
Ovulation with a Single Ovary
Typically, ovaries alternate in releasing an egg each month. With a single functioning ovary, however, the remaining ovary can often compensate by releasing an egg more frequently, potentially every month, effectively taking over the role of both ovaries. This compensatory mechanism is regulated by gonadotropic hormones produced by the pituitary gland.
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates the growth and development of ovarian follicles, which contain eggs. Luteinizing hormone (LH) then triggers the release of a mature egg from the dominant follicle during ovulation. In individuals with one ovary, the remaining gonad becomes more sensitive to these hormones, leading to an increased rate of follicular development and ovulation to maintain the menstrual cycle. This physiological adjustment allows for the continued production of eggs and the necessary hormones, such as estrogen, which are crucial for fertility.
Factors Affecting Pregnancy Success
While a single ovary can often compensate, several factors influence the likelihood of achieving pregnancy. One significant factor is age, as ovarian reserve, the quantity and quality of eggs, naturally declines over time. For individuals with one ovary, this decline may be more pronounced due to a smaller initial egg pool.
The underlying reason for having only one ovary also plays a role. If removed due to conditions like severe endometriosis, widespread infection, or a large benign cyst, the remaining ovary’s health and function could be compromised. Conversely, if the removal was due to a localized issue or trauma that did not impact the other ovary, the chances of successful pregnancy might be higher.
Overall reproductive health, including the patency of the remaining fallopian tube and the health of the uterus, is also crucial. Conditions like fallopian tube blockages, uterine abnormalities, or hormonal imbalances can significantly hinder conception.
General health and lifestyle choices further impact fertility. Factors such as maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular moderate exercise, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress levels can contribute to improved reproductive health. Being significantly underweight or overweight can also negatively affect ovulation and egg production.
Medical Support and Fertility Options
For individuals with one ovary who are trying to conceive, medical support and fertility treatments can provide valuable assistance. The initial step involves consulting a fertility specialist to assess the overall reproductive health and the function of the remaining ovary. This evaluation often includes hormone level assessments, including Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), which provide insights into ovarian reserve. Ultrasounds visualize the remaining ovary and its follicular activity, while tests for fallopian tube patency, such as a hysterosalpingogram, ensure no blockages.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) offer various pathways to pregnancy. Ovulation induction with medications can stimulate the remaining ovary to produce and release eggs more effectively. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), which places sperm directly into the uterus, may be considered if ovulation is regular and the fallopian tube is open. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) involves retrieving eggs, fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory, and transferring resulting embryos into the uterus. While IVF may require higher hormone doses and yield fewer eggs for women with one ovary, recent meta-analyses indicate a lower chance of success compared to those with two ovaries, with some studies reporting a 30% lower chance of pregnancy and live birth.