Having one ovary removed can raise concerns about fertility, especially for women who want to conceive. The good news is that you can still get pregnant naturally after having one ovary removed, provided the remaining ovary is functioning well and there are no other fertility-related problems.
The ovaries play an important role in reproduction by releasing eggs and producing hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone. Although having two ovaries provides a reserve of eggs, one healthy ovary can often support ovulation, menstruation, and pregnancy.
How Does Having One Ovary Affect Fertility?
“A woman can conceive with one ovary because the remaining ovary can continue releasing eggs during the menstrual cycle. If the fallopian tube, uterus, and other reproductive functions are healthy, fertilisation and pregnancy can occur naturally,” shares Dr Rakhi Rai, Director, Department of Fertility at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals in Noida and Gaur City.
The remaining ovary may ovulate regularly, allowing an egg to be released and fertilised by sperm. The fertilised egg can then travel to the uterus and implant, leading to pregnancy.
However, fertility depends on several factors, including age, egg quality, ovarian reserve, sperm health, and the condition of the fallopian tubes. Having one ovary does not automatically mean that a woman will have difficulty conceiving, but it may affect her reproductive potential in some cases.
Can You Get Pregnant Naturally With One Ovary?
Yes, many women with one functioning ovary conceive naturally without fertility treatment.
A single ovary can release an egg during a menstrual cycle, so having two ovaries is not necessary for pregnancy.
However, the chances of conception may vary depending on why the ovary was removed. For example, if surgery was performed because of an ovarian cyst, endometriosis, or an ovarian tumour, the underlying condition may also influence fertility.
If the remaining fallopian tube is healthy and functional, natural conception is possible. Even if the ovary and fallopian tube are on opposite sides, pregnancy may still occur because the fallopian tubes can sometimes pick up an egg released by the opposite ovary.
Also Read: Egg Quantity vs Egg Quality: What You Should Know Before Planning a Baby
Does Removing One Ovary Affect Egg Quality or Menopause?
Removing one ovary reduces the total number of eggs available in the ovaries, known as the ovarian reserve. However, it does not mean that the remaining eggs are necessarily of poor quality.
Age remains one of the most important factors affecting egg quality and fertility. Egg quality generally declines as women get older, particularly after the age of 35.
According to a comparison report published in the journal 'Human Reproduction Open', some women who have undergone removal of one ovary may experience menopause earlier than women with both ovaries. However, this is not inevitable, as the remaining ovary can continue producing reproductive hormones.
Menstrual periods may continue normally after surgery, although temporary changes can occur during recovery.
Can You Get Pregnant Through IVF With One Ovary?
Yes. Women with one ovary can undergo in vitro fertilisation (IVF) if they need fertility treatment.
During IVF, medicines stimulate the remaining ovary to produce eggs. These eggs are collected and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryo is then transferred into the uterus.
The number of eggs collected may be lower in some women with one ovary, but successful pregnancy is still possible. The outcome depends on factors such as age, ovarian reserve, egg quality, sperm health, and the reason for the surgery.
A fertility specialist may recommend tests such as anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), an antral follicle count, and other assessments to understand ovarian reserve and plan treatment.
Also Read: Trying to Conceive? 7 Everyday Habits That May Be Working Against You
When Should You See a Fertility Specialist?
Women with one ovary should consider discussing their fertility plans with a gynaecologist, particularly if they are planning a pregnancy soon or have a history of endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or other reproductive conditions.
A fertility evaluation is generally recommended if pregnancy has not occurred after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse for women under 35, or after six months for women aged 35 or older. Women over 40 or those with known fertility concerns may benefit from seeking advice earlier.
Final Word
Having one ovary removed does not mean you cannot become a mother. Many women conceive naturally and have healthy pregnancies with one functioning ovary. Understanding your reproductive health, seeking timely medical advice, and addressing any underlying fertility problems can help you make informed decisions about pregnancy.
FAQ
Are you less fertile if you only have one ovary?
Having only one ovary affects your ovarian egg reserve, which may impact your chances of conceiving. However, this doesn't make a woman less fertile.Which ovary is more important for pregnancy?
While both ovaries are equal in terms of functionality, however according to few studies the right ovary has a slightly higher chance of ovulating as compared to the left ovary but this is inconclusive.
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Current Version
Oct 31, 2026 17:38 IST
Published By : Chanchal Sengar
Reviewed By : Dr Rakhi Rai