Only half of one ovary left - can we conceive?

[pk1983]

My wife has had a history of dermoid cysts, and many years ago had one ovary fully removed. 2 years ago, with one full ovary, we were thankfully able to conceive and have a daughter. This only took a couple months of trying. About a year ago, they discovered another cyst on her remaining ovary, and after surgery, she only has about 60% of her remaining ovary left. We have been since trying to conceive for 9 months now with no luck. Her hormonal tests came back fine and it seems like her ovary is functioning ok. We know that only after a year of trying should we consider infertility treatment, but we feel our situation may be a little different since she now only has about half of one ovary left.

As the husband, I will soon get tested myself just to be sure there is nothing on my end that is causing any issues. While we hear that technically she should be able to conceive with only half of one ovary, we have not heard of any actual stories to support that. We don't want to give up yet, but when my wife was on birth control, she never had issues with cysts and they only come up when she's off the pill. This could be a coincidence though it would be a big one since this has happened repeatedly.

Of course her health comes first, so while we want to keep trying, keeping her ovary for her health benefit is a priority. We are not looking into IVF and would look into adopting, so at some point soon we have to make a decision as to when she should get back on the pill. I know no one has a crystal ball, but does anyone have any evidence or examples to provide that may provide some reassurance that we may still be able to conceive soon given our current situation? Thanks!

[old_before_my_time]

I know of someone who conceived twice with only part of one ovary. I myself experienced secondary infertility but with both ovaries. I ended up conceiving after one cycle of shots (don't recall the drug) after Clomid (pills) did nto work. Best of luck to you!

[pk1983]

That is reassuring to know. Thank you.

[AnnieBrooke]

Even in someone with two functional ovaries, nine months of trying without getting pregnant is not considered clinically to be infertility.  I'd give it three more months at least, unless you are super worried she will get another cyst.

[pk1983]

Thank you for taking the time to respond!

[Busyyasi]

I hope both of you are doing great and conceived. Could you plz update your present situation because I am also in the same situation. Thanks

[pk1983]

Thanks for the well wishes. As of now, we have yet to conceive.  All tests so far given to me and my wife indicate that there should be no discernable problem in conceiving, but now we've been trying for 20 months. We began IUI treatment a couple months ago. On the first try, we did conceive but there as an immediate miscarriage. We are taking a couple months off from  treatment and will try again.

[Busyyasi]

Thanks for  your reply. It gives me hope too. I wish you 2 success and baby vibes on your way

[pk1983]

Thank you both for taking the time to respond! I appreciate the helpful and reassuring feedback.