AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone)
Definition
AMH is a hormone produced by the ovaries in women and the testicles in men. Its level in the blood is measured.
Purpose
- Assessment of ovarian reserve, "checking how many eggs are left in your ovaries"
- Predicting the response to medication before in vitro fertilization (IVF)
- Detecting menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency
- Diagnosis and monitoring of PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), certain ovarian cancers
- Evaluation of undescended testicles or atypical genitalia in infants
Results
- High AMH, a larger egg reserve; a better fertility outlook for women who wish to become pregnant. In PCOS it may support the diagnosis
- Low AMH, a declining egg reserve; difficulty conceiving or approaching menopause
- Undetectable AMH, indicates that menopause has begun
Normal Values
Laboratory-specific; refer to the reference range on your report.
Risks and Limitations
Three limitations that are very important for patient expectations:
The test cannot provide information about the health of the eggs and cannot predict whether you will be able to become pregnant.
1. It does not show egg quality, it only gives an idea of the number 2. It cannot predict pregnancy, low AMH does not mean you cannot conceive 3. It cannot predict the timing of menopause, it only gives an idea of how close it is 4. It cannot diagnose PCOS on its own