Ovarian reserve

Written by Zayn Miah & R KhanomLast updated 17 September 2026Not clinically reviewed

The number and quality of eggs remaining in the ovaries at a given time.

In plain English

It's a general term for how many eggs you have left and how well they're likely to respond to stimulation.

Why it matters

It naturally declines with age and is estimated using tests like AMH and antral follicle count, though no test predicts egg quality directly.

Related terms

Guides that cover this

Written by patients, not clinicians. This page has not yet been reviewed by a named fertility professional, so it explains published guidance and points you to the original source instead of giving medical advice. It is not medical advice. Decisions about your treatment belong with your own clinic. Read our editorial policy and corrections policy.