Poor ovarian response (POR) describes a situation where fewer follicles and eggs develop than expected during ovarian stimulation for IVF, despite an adequate dose of fertility medicines. It is more common in women with diminished ovarian reserve or advanced reproductive age, though it can occur unexpectedly in others. Specialists may adjust the stimulation protocol, medicine type or dose in future cycles, or discuss alternative approaches such as mild stimulation or donor eggs, depending on the individual situation. A poor response in one cycle does not always predict the outcome of a future cycle, and it is discussed with realistic, individualised counselling rather than a fixed label.
Also known as: poor responder, low ovarian response
Related India guides
Sources
- ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)
- Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (fogsi.org)
- European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (eshre.eu)
Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.