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A "Double" Surprise In Advanced Age!

Dr. Hsin-Yi Ho

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High-Age Mom Ting Ting: Overcoming Low Ovarian Function and AMH Levels for a Successful Twin Pregnancy

Mom Ting Ting, facing issues with poor ovarian function and low AMH levels, discussed with me the desire to increase her chances of success with IVF through egg collection and embryo creation. Ultimately, with adjustments to her medication, we managed to produce more embryos, and she was thrilled to discover she was pregnant with twins!

Challenges of Low Ovarian Function and AMH Levels


Ting Ting is at an age where ovarian function is a concern, and her AMH levels are not ideal. The doctor had already recommended that she consider IVF. Due to her poor ovarian function, some doctors suggested collecting a certain number of eggs first to improve her chances of success. However, this approach might require several egg retrievals before proceeding to fertilization or even embryo implantation.

When Ting Ting came to my office to discuss this option, I expressed my reservations about the egg collection and embryo creation strategy. I believe that this process does not inherently improve the quality of embryos. If embryos can be obtained, there is a possibility of achieving a successful pregnancy from the first egg retrieval, meaning we could implant embryos immediately without needing multiple collection cycles.

Success After Medication Adjustments: A Pregnancy with Twins


During our first cycle, we only retrieved one embryo for implantation, but unfortunately, it did not lead to a positive outcome. In our second cycle, after adjusting the medication, we were able to retrieve more embryos. This time, not only did we receive good news, but it turned out to be twins (oops... it wasn’t intentional to have twins!).

This scenario is common for older women or those with poor ovarian function. They may experience greater psychological pressure than others, but it’s not necessary to undergo many cycles of egg collection and embryo creation. If embryos are available, implanting them immediately can still lead to positive outcomes in earlier cycles.

Tips for Women with Poor Ovarian Function:

⭐ Egg collection and embryo creation do not necessarily improve embryo quality.
⭐ Current IVF subsidy programs do not encourage egg collection and embryo creation.
⭐ Embryo biopsies do not enhance embryo quality.
⭐ Implanting embryos as soon as they are available is often the fastest path to pregnancy.