What AMH does and does not show
Anti-Müllerian hormone is secreted by small follicles and is a good marker of the number of remaining eggs (ovarian reserve). However, it:
- does not show egg quality, which depends mostly on age;
- does not on its own predict natural fertility in a woman who ovulates regularly, since one egg a month is enough;
- does not precisely predict the age of menopause.
Studies have shown that women aged 30-44 with low AMH were not markedly less likely to conceive naturally than women of the same age with normal AMH.
Age and AMH together
Low AMH at 30 does not mean the same as low AMH at 40. In younger women egg quality is usually good and success is possible with fewer eggs; later, both number and quality fall and time becomes more decisive.
If your AMH is low
- Do not wait if you want a pregnancy: avoid delaying assessment and treatment.
- Full assessment: antral follicle count on days 2-4, FSH, tubal patency and the partner's semen analysis.
- Individual treatment: IVF dose and protocol are chosen according to reserve; embryo banking over several cycles is sometimes used.
- If delaying pregnancy: discuss egg freezing; the younger, the better the results.
Can AMH be increased?
No medicine or supplement has been proven to increase egg numbers. Stopping smoking and a healthy lifestyle help preserve reserve. Women with a family history of early menopause, previous ovarian surgery or endometriosis benefit from knowing their AMH early.
An AMH result is not a decision on its own; it should always be interpreted with age, ultrasound findings and the couple's history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What AMH level is considered low?
On which cycle day is AMH tested?
Sources
- Steiner AZ, et al. Association Between Biomarkers of Ovarian Reserve and Infertility Among Older Women of Reproductive Age. JAMA, 2017.
- ESHRE Guideline: Ovarian Stimulation for IVF/ICSI, 2019.
The information on this website is for general information only and does not replace a medical consultation.
