AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) has become one of the most important tests for understanding ovarian reserve. Here's what you need to know.
What Is AMH?
AMH is produced by small follicles in your ovaries. It reflects the size of your remaining egg supply (ovarian reserve).
What AMH Tells You
- Higher AMH: Larger ovarian reserve
- Lower AMH: Smaller ovarian reserve
- Very high AMH: May indicate PCOS
AMH Levels by Age
- 25-30: 3.0-7.0 ng/mL typical
- 30-35: 2.5-5.5 ng/mL typical
- 35-40: 1.5-4.0 ng/mL typical
- 40-45: 0.5-2.5 ng/mL typical
Note: These are averages. Individual variation is normal.
What AMH Doesn't Tell You
- Egg quality (that's more related to age)
- Whether you can get pregnant
- When you'll go through menopause
When to Test
AMH can be tested any day of your cycle - it doesn't fluctuate significantly.
Important Considerations
- AMH naturally declines with age
- Very low AMH doesn't mean you can't conceive
- Very high AMH may indicate PCOS
- Birth control may temporarily lower AMH
Other Ovarian Reserve Tests
- Day 3 FSH
- Antral follicle count (ultrasound)
- Day 3 estradiol
References
- Dewailly, D., et al. (2014). The physiology and clinical utility of anti-Mullerian hormone in women. Human Reproduction Update, 20(3), 370-385.
- La Marca, A., et al. (2010). Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) as a predictive marker in assisted reproductive technology (ART). Human Reproduction Update, 16(2), 113-130.
