Ovarfunktion und fertilität

Abstract

The main task of the ovaries is to periodically provide a mature oocyte for fertilization. In addition the ovaries provide nidation of the fertilized oocyte by developing a competent and receptive endometrium thus forming the basis of female fertility. The ovarian follicle pool, out of which only few oocytes reach selection and ovulation stages in the course of the reproductive phase, is already formed early in embryogenesis. The sensitive interaction between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and ovaries can easily be disturbed by several factors potentially resulting in constraint of ovarian function and overall fertility. The age-related depletion of the ovarian reserve is characterized in particular by a high level of follicle atresia and degenerative effects. The anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is widely deemed the best marker of the ovarian reserve. Beyond that the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level and antral follicle count (AFC) also represent useful indicators of ovarian function and reserve. © Springer-Verlag 2011.