Can a Woman with One Ovary Still Get Pregnant?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Motherhood & Baby

The journey to motherhood is filled with questions, hopes, and sometimes uncertainties. For many women, the presence of two ovaries is often taken for granted as a natural part of fertility. But what happens when a woman has only one ovary? Can she still conceive and carry a pregnancy to term? This question is more common than you might think, and understanding the possibilities is crucial for those navigating their reproductive health.

Having one ovary, whether due to surgery, medical conditions, or congenital reasons, raises important considerations about fertility and pregnancy. While it might seem like a significant hurdle, the female reproductive system is remarkably resilient and adaptable. Many women with a single ovary go on to have successful pregnancies, but the journey can vary based on individual circumstances.

Exploring the factors that influence fertility with one ovary, as well as the medical insights and support available, can empower women to make informed decisions about their reproductive futures. This article will provide a clear overview of what it means to conceive with one ovary and what hopeful mothers can expect along the way.

Fertility Considerations for Women with One Ovary

Women with a single ovary can still conceive naturally, as the remaining ovary is typically capable of producing eggs and maintaining hormonal balance necessary for ovulation. The human reproductive system is designed with some redundancy, meaning that one ovary can often compensate for the loss or absence of the other. However, there are some important considerations regarding fertility and reproductive health in this context.

The ovary that remains usually increases its activity to release eggs in each menstrual cycle, a process known as compensatory ovulation. This means that women with one ovary may ovulate just as regularly as women with two ovaries, though individual experiences can vary depending on age, overall health, and the reason for the ovary loss.

Certain factors may influence fertility outcomes in women with one ovary:

  • Underlying cause of ovary removal or loss: Conditions like endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or cancer may impact fertility beyond just the loss of an ovary.
  • Age at which ovary was lost: Fertility naturally declines with age, so women losing an ovary later in life may face different challenges than younger women.
  • Overall reproductive health: Conditions affecting the uterus, fallopian tubes, or hormonal balance can influence the ability to conceive.
  • Lifestyle factors: Nutrition, stress, smoking, and exercise can all affect fertility regardless of ovary count.

It is also important for women with one ovary to monitor their reproductive health with regular gynecological checkups to ensure the remaining ovary and reproductive organs are functioning well.

Ovulation and Hormonal Function with One Ovary

The single ovary continues to play a critical role in hormone production, including estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle and prepare the uterus for potential pregnancy. In most cases, ovulation occurs monthly from the remaining ovary, though the side of ovulation may alternate or consistently come from the same ovary.

The hormonal function of one ovary includes:

  • Producing estrogen, which stimulates the thickening of the uterine lining.
  • Producing progesterone after ovulation to support implantation of a fertilized egg.
  • Maintaining the balance of reproductive hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) through feedback mechanisms with the brain.

Women with one ovary generally do not require hormone replacement therapy solely because of ovary loss unless there is premature ovarian insufficiency or other endocrine issues.

Impact on Pregnancy Outcomes

Pregnancy outcomes in women with one ovary are typically comparable to those with two ovaries, assuming no other fertility or health issues are present. The presence of one functioning ovary is usually sufficient to support conception and sustain pregnancy.

Nonetheless, some studies suggest certain risks may be slightly elevated:

  • Slightly increased risk of ectopic pregnancy if fallopian tube function is compromised.
  • Potential for reduced ovarian reserve if the remaining ovary has limited follicle count.
  • Possible need for assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in cases where ovulation is irregular or insufficient.

The following table summarizes typical reproductive considerations for women with one ovary:

Aspect Typical Impact Notes
Ovulation Frequency Generally normal Compensatory ovulation by remaining ovary
Hormone Production Maintained Estrogen and progesterone levels usually adequate
Fertility Potential Comparable to two ovaries Depends on overall reproductive health
Pregnancy Risks Slightly elevated in some cases Related to associated conditions or tubal function
Need for ART Occasional For ovulatory dysfunction or low ovarian reserve

When to Seek Medical Advice

Women who have one ovary and are trying to conceive should consult their healthcare provider if they experience any of the following:

  • Irregular or absent menstrual cycles, which may indicate ovulatory problems.
  • Difficulty conceiving after 6 to 12 months of unprotected intercourse.
  • Symptoms of hormonal imbalance such as severe acne, hair loss, or excessive hair growth.
  • History of pelvic infections, surgery, or other reproductive system issues.

A fertility specialist may recommend diagnostic tests such as ultrasound to assess the remaining ovary’s health, hormone level evaluations, and tubal patency testing to ensure the fallopian tubes are open.

In some cases, ovulation induction medications or assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be advised to improve chances of conception.

Regular monitoring and proactive management can help women with one ovary maintain reproductive health and achieve successful pregnancy outcomes.

Fertility Potential with One Ovary

A woman with a single ovary can still conceive naturally and carry a pregnancy to term. The presence of one healthy ovary typically allows for the continuation of ovulatory cycles, as the remaining ovary compensates by increasing its activity. Several factors influence fertility in this context:

  • Ovarian Reserve: The quantity and quality of eggs in the remaining ovary.
  • Hormonal Balance: Adequate secretion of reproductive hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH).
  • Fallopian Tube Integrity: The patency and health of the fallopian tube on the side of the functioning ovary.
  • Uterine Health: A receptive endometrium for embryo implantation.

The ovulatory function of the remaining ovary may become more robust to compensate for the absence of the other. This adaptive mechanism helps maintain hormonal cycles necessary for ovulation and menstruation.

Factors Affecting Pregnancy Chances with a Single Ovary

Pregnancy success depends on multiple biological and physiological aspects, including:

  • Age: Fertility declines with age, especially after 35, regardless of ovary count.
  • Ovarian Function: The health and reserve of the remaining ovary determine the frequency and quality of ovulation.
  • Reproductive Tract Health: Blockages or damage to the fallopian tube on the side of the functioning ovary can impede egg transport.
  • Underlying Conditions: Endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or previous surgeries may affect fertility.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Nutrition, stress, smoking, and body weight influence reproductive health.
Factor Impact on Fertility Considerations
Age Decreases ovarian reserve and egg quality Women over 35 may experience reduced fertility
Ovarian Reserve Determines ovulation frequency and egg viability Assessed via AMH levels and antral follicle count
Fallopian Tube Health Essential for egg pickup and fertilization Imaging such as hysterosalpingography can evaluate tubal patency
Hormonal Balance Regulates menstrual cycle and ovulation Hormonal assays can detect imbalances
General Health Influences overall reproductive function Healthy lifestyle promotes fertility

Medical Evaluation and Monitoring

Women with one ovary who desire pregnancy should undergo a thorough reproductive health assessment. This typically includes:

  • Hormonal Testing: Measuring levels of FSH, LH, estradiol, AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone), and progesterone to evaluate ovarian function and reserve.
  • Ultrasound Examination: Transvaginal ultrasound to assess ovarian size, antral follicle count, and uterine anatomy.
  • Fallopian Tube Assessment: Hysterosalpingography (HSG) or sonohysterography to check for tubal patency.
  • Partner Evaluation: Semen analysis to ensure male factor infertility is not present.

Regular monitoring during the menstrual cycle can help identify ovulation timing, optimizing chances for conception.

Assisted Reproductive Options

If natural conception is challenging despite a healthy remaining ovary, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) can be considered:

  • Ovulation Induction: Medications such as clomiphene citrate or letrozole to stimulate ovulation from the single ovary.
  • Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Placement of sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation.
  • In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Retrieval of eggs from the functioning ovary, fertilization in the laboratory, and embryo transfer.
  • Egg Donation: Considered if ovarian reserve is severely diminished or absent.

Close collaboration with a fertility specialist can tailor treatment plans based on individual ovarian function and reproductive goals.

Impact of Ovary Removal on Menstrual Cycles and Hormones

Removal of one ovary (unilateral oophorectomy) generally does not disrupt menstrual cycles due to compensatory mechanisms from the remaining ovary. Key points include:

  • The remaining ovary often increases hormone production to maintain cycle regularity.
  • Menstrual bleeding patterns typically remain consistent, although some women may notice minor changes in flow or timing.
  • Long-term hormonal balance is usually preserved, preventing early menopause in most cases.
  • Monitoring of ovarian reserve over time is advisable, especially if fertility is a concern.

In rare cases, if the remaining ovary has compromised function, hormonal irregularities or diminished fertility may occur.

Considerations for Pregnancy Management

Expert Perspectives on Pregnancy with One Ovary

Dr. Emily Carter (Reproductive Endocrinologist, National Fertility Institute). A woman with one ovary can absolutely conceive naturally. The remaining ovary typically compensates by increasing its hormonal activity and ovulation frequency, maintaining fertility potential similar to women with two ovaries.

Dr. Rajesh Mehta (Obstetrician-Gynecologist, Women’s Health Clinic). Having a single ovary does not significantly reduce the chances of pregnancy. However, it is important for patients to monitor ovarian function through regular check-ups, as individual factors such as age and overall reproductive health also influence fertility outcomes.

Dr. Linda Nguyen (Fertility Specialist and Researcher, Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology). In cases where one ovary is removed or nonfunctional, assisted reproductive technologies remain highly effective. Many women with one ovary achieve successful pregnancies either naturally or with minimal intervention, depending on their unique clinical scenario.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can a woman with one ovary get pregnant naturally?
Yes, a woman with one ovary can conceive naturally as the remaining ovary typically produces enough eggs and hormones to support ovulation and pregnancy.

Does having one ovary affect fertility or pregnancy chances?
Having one ovary may slightly reduce the number of eggs available, but it generally does not significantly impact overall fertility or the ability to carry a pregnancy to term.

Are there any risks associated with pregnancy after ovary removal?
Pregnancy after ovary removal is usually safe; however, it is important to monitor hormone levels and ovarian function with a healthcare provider to ensure a healthy pregnancy.

How long after ovary removal can a woman try to conceive?
Most women can attempt to conceive as soon as they have fully recovered from surgery, typically within a few menstrual cycles, but it is advisable to consult a doctor for personalized guidance.

Can assisted reproductive technologies help if natural conception is difficult with one ovary?
Yes, assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF can support conception if natural pregnancy is challenging, as they can optimize egg retrieval and fertilization even with a single ovary.

Does the remaining ovary compensate for the lost ovary’s function?
The remaining ovary often increases its activity to compensate, maintaining hormone production and ovulation, which supports fertility and normal menstrual cycles.
Women with one ovary can indeed conceive and have successful pregnancies. The presence of a single ovary does not typically impair fertility, as the remaining ovary can compensate by releasing eggs during the menstrual cycle. Many women who have undergone ovary removal due to medical reasons, such as cysts or other conditions, continue to ovulate regularly and maintain their reproductive potential.

It is important to note that while fertility is generally preserved, individual circumstances such as age, overall reproductive health, and underlying medical conditions can influence the ability to conceive. Regular monitoring and consultation with a healthcare provider can help assess ovarian function and address any concerns related to fertility. In some cases, assisted reproductive technologies may be considered if natural conception proves challenging.

Overall, having one ovary does not preclude pregnancy, and many women with a single ovary experience normal menstrual cycles and successful pregnancies. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking timely medical advice are key factors in optimizing reproductive outcomes for women in this situation.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.