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What is the Anti-Mullerian hormone?

Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is an important biomarker used to measure reproductive health. It is produced by the testes in males and the ovaries in females. In males, it is responsible for sperm and hormonal production, while in females it creates eggs and female hormones. AMH is the most accurate predictor of ovarian reserve (a woman’s egg supply). A higher AMH indicates a greater egg supply.

Why is AMH important?

AMH is a significant marker for reproductive function. This is particularly useful for individuals who are trying to get pregnant.

AMH is critical for the analysis of a variety of issues:

  1. Checking Egg Supply
    • If you’re a woman trying to get pregnant, knowing your AMH levels can give you an idea of your egg supply, or “ovarian reserve.” A higher level usually means you have more eggs, while a lower level might mean fewer eggs.
  2. Fertility Treatments
    • If you’re having trouble getting pregnant and are considering fertility treatments like IVF (in-vitro fertilization), doctors use AMH levels to help decide on the best approach.
  3. Understanding Irregular Periods
    • Sometimes, if a woman has frequently irregular periods, a doctor might check AMH levels along with other hormones to see if a more serious condition is the cause.

AMH testing can also be used to monitor the onset of menopause and help diagnose ovarian problems such as PCOS or ovarian cancer.

How can I better understand my AMH levels?

To better understand your AMH levels, you can use the following reference ranges:

  • Out of range: 0-0.82 ng/mL
  • In-range: 0.82-14.63 ng/mL
  • Out of range: 14.63+ ng/mL

Unlike FSH, LH, and estradiol which should be tested on the third day of your menstrual cycle, AMH can be tested at any time. AMH levels can be expected to peak in females at around 25 years old, followed by a natural decline. While high AMH is generally considered to be good for those who are looking to get pregnant as it is indicative of greater ovarian reserve and fertility, individuals with PCOS may also experience high AMH levels which can make conceiving difficult.

Lower levels of AMH can indicate a shortage of eggs in the ovaries. This could increase the difficulty of pregnancy. Higher levels of AMH can indicate an abundance of eggs in the ovaries. In some cases, it could be a symptom of a more serious condition.

Diminished ovarian reserve usually occurs around menopause, and the average age of menopause is in the early 50s [1]. At this time, low AMH is normal. It is important to understand that while AMH is an indicator of ovarian reserve, it does not provide information on egg quality or health, and does not necessarily correlate with fertility. Females with low AMH may be able to conceive naturally as many factors influence fertility. If you are concerned with your results, please consult with your physician to seek treatment.

How can I maintain optimal AMH levels?

Dietary Changes: Consuming dairy products may decrease the rate of AMH decline and decreasing dietary fat intake may help to increase AMH levels [2][3]. Following a pro-fertility diet (for overweight and obese females) can help as well [4].

Lifestyle Changes: Engaging in regular exercise and quitting smoking can help increase AMH levels [5].

Supplementation: For ovulating females without PCOS, supplementing vitamin D can aid in increasing AMH levels [6].

Where can I learn more?

DISCLAIMER: IF YOU ARE CONCERNED WITH ANY OF YOUR RESULTS, PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN.

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