In today’s fast-paced world, fertility conversations are shifting. Increasingly, young women in their 20s are facing unexpected challenges, particularly regarding low ovarian reserve, a condition that impacts their ability to conceive naturally. Experts suggest that this rise is influenced by a mix of lifestyle factors, environmental exposures, and societal changes, making early fertility awareness more important than ever.
Dr. Priya SP Patil, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Altius Hospital in Bangalore, highlights a concerning trend: more young women in their 20s are being diagnosed with low ovarian reserve. “This trend is both surprising and worrying,” she says. Beyond stress and lifestyle, she points to early menarche and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in plastics, cosmetics, and processed foods, which may affect ovarian health over time. As low ovarian reserve often presents no symptoms until fertility is affected, Dr. Patil stresses the importance of early screening, such as Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) testing and antral follicle scans.
Fertility isn’t just about age anymore; awareness allows women to make timely choices like egg freezing, giving them the power to plan ahead,” she adds.
This need for early fertility testing is linked to broader societal changes. Dr. Manisha Singh, a Gynaecologist and Reproductive Medicine Subspecialist at Fortis Hospital, Bangalore, points out that delayed childbearing, career planning, and health conditions like PCOS and endometriosis are contributing factors. “Advances in diagnostic technologies have made early detection more accessible,” she says. “But societal shifts, such as women’s empowerment and career priorities, are leading to delayed family planning, making fertility concerns more urgent.”
Dr. Singh emphasizes that early testing allows women to make proactive choices, such as egg freezing, without having to put their career or education on hold. “It empowers them to make informed decisions, especially as egg reserves drop.”
Dr. K U Kunjimoideen, Regional Medical Director at Birla Fertility & IVF in Calicut, notes that the pattern of low ovarian reserve in young women is becoming more common. “What used to be a concern for women in their late 30s is now being seen in those in their 20s,” he explains. The causes are multifaceted, including genetics, environmental pollutants, autoimmune diseases, extreme fitness routines, irregular sleep, and smoking. “Ovarian reserve affects both the quantity and quality of eggs, and when it’s low, natural conception chances decline significantly,” he warns.
Dr. Kunjimoideen stresses that many women only realize they have fertility issues while trying to conceive, making intervention more difficult. He recommends an AMH blood test and pelvic ultrasound to assess reproductive potential. Early detection gives women more options, such as egg freezing, which can preserve fertility for the future. “With awareness and timely action, fertility doesn’t have to be left to chance,” he adds.
The narrative around fertility is evolving. It’s no longer just about reacting to issues when they arise; it’s about gaining knowledge early. With proper testing and informed decision-making, young women can take control of their reproductive futures, balancing personal and professional goals without sacrificing their dreams of motherhood.
In the end, awareness isn’t just empowering — it’s life-changing.
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