What is the Origin of Term 16?

The concept is fundamental to reproductive physiology, acknowledging that females are born with a finite, non-renewable pool of primordial follicles. The clinical term arose from the necessity to predict fertility potential and guide reproductive interventions, particularly in the context of delayed childbearing. The measurement of specific hormonal markers provided a quantifiable means to assess this biological timeline.

What is the Mechanism of Term 16?

The size of the ovarian reserve is set before birth, and throughout the reproductive years, a cohort of follicles is continuously recruited for maturation, with only one typically ovulating and the rest undergoing atresia, or programmed cell death. The rate of follicular depletion is largely genetically determined but can be influenced by environmental factors. AMH, secreted by the small antral follicles, acts as a measurable proxy for the size of this remaining pool, while FSH reflects the pituitary's attempt to stimulate a dwindling supply of follicles.

Term 16 ∞ Area

Term 16

Meaning

Ovarian Reserve is a clinical term that refers to the quantity and quality of the remaining oocytes, or egg cells, within the ovaries, which directly correlates with a woman’s reproductive potential and the time remaining until menopause. It is a critical metric in reproductive endocrinology, assessed clinically through biomarkers such as Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) levels, along with an antral follicle count via ultrasound. Declining ovarian reserve is a natural and irreversible part of the aging process, signaling the gradual reduction in reproductive lifespan.