Gynecologists don't directly check for eggs during a routine exam. Instead, they assess a woman's ovarian reserve and ovulatory function, which indirectly indicates egg quality and quantity.
Methods to Assess Ovarian Reserve and Function:
- Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound can measure the size and number of follicles (fluid-filled sacs containing eggs) in the ovaries. This helps estimate the ovarian reserve.
- Hormone Testing: Blood tests measure hormone levels like follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), which are indicators of ovarian function and reserve.
- Ovulation Tracking: A gynecologist may recommend tracking ovulation using methods like basal body temperature charting or ovulation predictor kits.
- Other tests: Depending on the situation, other tests like a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) or laparoscopy may be used to assess the reproductive system, though these don't directly check for eggs.
What Gynecologists Can't Do:
Gynecologists can't directly visualize or count eggs within the ovaries. This is because eggs are microscopic and located within the follicles.
Conclusion:
While gynecologists can't directly check for eggs, they use various methods to assess a woman's ovarian reserve and function, which provides indirect information about egg quality and quantity.
