Category
Dec 4, 2025
Receiving an infertility diagnosis can feel like a verdict. Words like "low reserve" or "endometriosis" often come loaded with fear. But in modern reproductive medicine, a diagnosis is not a full stop; it is the necessary starting point to map out the route to your baby.
At Institut Marquès, we know that every woman is unique. In this article, we break down the most common causes that make pregnancy difficult and, most importantly, the personalized strategies we use to overcome them.
It is the most frequent consultation in our clinic today, often related to delayed motherhood.
What is Low Ovarian Reserve? Ovarian reserve is the quantity of viable eggs remaining in the ovaries. A "low reserve" means that the number of available eggs is lower than expected for the patient's age, which can make it difficult to respond to stimulation in an IVF cycle.
How is it measured? (The AMH Test) The most reliable indicator is Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), which is measured with a simple blood test.
High AMH: Indicates a good reserve (common in PCOS).
Low AMH: Warns us that time is a critical factor.
The Solution: In cases of low reserve, we customize stimulation protocols to maximize the quality of the few available eggs. Our lab technology, including Music in Incubators, helps support these delicate eggs during development. If the reserve is exhausted, we may suggest Egg Donation.
Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women, and many suffer in silence for years before being diagnosed.
Definition: Endometriosis It is a chronic condition where the tissue lining the uterus (endometrium) grows outside of it, on the ovaries or fallopian tubes. This causes inflammation, cysts (often called "chocolate cysts"), and can affect egg quality and implantation.
Can I get pregnant? Yes. Although endometriosis can hinder natural conception (due to blocked tubes or an inflammatory environment), IVF is highly effective because we "bypass" the tubes and optimize the uterine environment before the transfer.
It is the most common endocrine cause of infertility.
Definition: PCOS PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that causes irregular or absent menstrual cycles (anovulation). The ovaries often have many small follicles that do not mature or release an egg.
The Problem and the Solution: The main problem is that "the egg doesn't come out." Fortunately, PCOS usually has a very good prognosis. With controlled ovarian stimulation, we often achieve an excellent response and a high number of eggs. At Institut Marquès, safety is paramount; we use specific protocols to prevent Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), ensuring a safe process.
For a natural pregnancy, the fallopian tubes must be permeable. If they are blocked, sperm and egg never meet.
Definition: Hydrosalpinx It is a blockage of the fallopian tube accompanied by fluid accumulation. This fluid can be toxic to the embryo and hinder implantation.
IVF or Surgery? In most cases, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is the first choice, as we retrieve eggs directly from the ovaries, making tubal function unnecessary. In cases of severe Hydrosalpinx, treating the tube before transfer may be recommended to improve success rates.
Does having low reserve mean I can't have children with my own eggs? Not necessarily. It means it will be harder to get a large number of eggs in one cycle. We often use "oocyte accumulation" strategies or mild protocols to achieve pregnancy. Only if quality is very compromised do we recommend egg donation.
Does PCOS get worse with ovarian stimulation? Patients with PCOS are at higher risk of ovarian hyperstimulation because their ovaries respond very strongly. At Institut Marquès, we use specific antagonist protocols to almost completely eliminate this risk and guarantee your safety.
Does endometriosis affect egg quality? It can. Chronic inflammation may decrease oocyte quality. However, by performing IVF, we select the best eggs and embryos in the lab, largely overcoming this obstacle.
