Summary
The Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) plays a central role in assessing a woman’s egg reserve and estimating how much time she likely has left for family planning. This article explains what AMH is, how it is measured, what the values mean, and the factors that can influence AMH levels.
What is the Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)?
The Anti-Müllerian Hormone is produced by the small follicles (follicles) in the ovaries. Its value provides insights into the number of eggs remaining but does not indicate their quality. A high AMH level suggests a good egg reserve, while a low AMH level indicates that the egg reserve may have already decreased.
How Does the AMH Test Help in Fertility Diagnosis?
AMH levels are directly related to the egg reserve. This is important for women who want to actively manage their family planning, as the AMH level provides an estimate of how much time is left for having children. Women considering egg preservation (social freezing) often use this test as a guide. For a more accurate prediction, doctors combine the AMH test with a vaginal ultrasound to check the size and number of follicles, allowing a more comprehensive fertility assessment. Additionally, this helps rule out conditions like fibroids and endometriosis.
AMH Levels and the Impact of Age on Fertility
AMH levels naturally decrease with age. While AMH levels are typically higher in women in their 20s, they begin to noticeably decline by the mid-30s. Women in their late 30s usually have lower AMH levels, indicating a reduced egg reserve. However, it’s important to emphasize that a low AMH level does not automatically mean infertility, but rather that fertility is decreasing.
What can affect AMH Levels?
Age: The most significant factor. As women age, their egg reserve and AMH levels decrease.
Genetics: Some women genetically have a higher or lower egg reserve.
Lifestyle: Factors such as smoking, being overweight, and vitamin deficiencies (e.g., vitamin D) can negatively impact AMH levels.
Medical Conditions: Conditions like endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can influence AMH levels by altering ovarian function.
Hormonal Contraception: The use of hormonal contraceptives, like the pill, can temporarily lower AMH levels. After stopping the pill, the levels typically return to normal.
How is the AMH Test Conducted?
The AMH test is a simple blood test, usually done at a doctor’s office or a fertility clinic, consisting of the following steps:
Step 1: A doctor or nurse draws a small amount of blood from a vein in the arm.
Step 2: The collected blood is analyzed in a hormone laboratory, a process that usually takes a few days.
Step 3: Once the results are available, the doctor discusses the AMH level and its significance with the patient. The AMH value provides insight into the egg reserve but does not indicate egg quality. Therefore, the test is often supplemented by a vaginal ultrasound to count antral follicles (small, immature follicles) for a more accurate fertility assessment.
Conclusion
The AMH level is a valuable indicator of the egg reserve, but it is important to consider it in conjunction with other factors like an ultrasound and overall health. Women should always seek medical advice to get a complete picture of their fertility.