Is AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) Testing Necessary to Assess Ovarian Reserve?
AMH testing may sound unfamiliar to some people, but it is highly beneficial for couples undergoing fertility treatment.
For women planning a pregnancy, one of the most important assessments is the Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) test. This test helps determine the remaining ovarian reserve—essentially how many eggs are still available—allowing clinicians to estimate a woman’s reproductive potential.
The AMH test is commonly recommended during fertility planning or for women who wish to evaluate their reproductive health earlier. AMH is also present in men and plays an essential role in early reproductive system development.
What Is the Function of AMH for Fertility?
In Men
AMH is produced by the testes from infancy until puberty. Its main function is to prevent the development of female reproductive organs during fetal development. After puberty, AMH levels in men gradually decline as the male reproductive system matures.
In Women
AMH is produced in small amounts by the ovarian follicles from infancy until puberty. A significant increase in AMH levels occurs after puberty, coinciding with the maturation of reproductive function. As women age—and especially approaching menopause—AMH levels naturally decline.
AMH is closely tied to fertility because it reflects the number of remaining eggs in a woman’s ovaries.
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Higher AMH: Indicates a larger ovarian reserve, meaning more eggs are available for fertilization.
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Lower AMH: Suggests a diminished ovarian reserve, which may impact the chances of conception either naturally or through assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF.
Because of this, AMH testing is an important indicator for assessing a woman’s reproductive potential.
What Is the Purpose of AMH Testing in Fertility Treatment?
The AMH test is commonly recommended for women undergoing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). It is crucial for evaluating ovarian reserve—both the quantity and expected functional quality of the remaining oocytes.
This information enables clinicians to predict the likelihood of success during IVF.
If the AMH result shows sufficient ovarian reserve with good expected response, the chances of success in assisted reproductive treatments such as IVF can increase.
Additionally, AMH testing is also useful for:
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Identifying causes of premature menopause
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Evaluating menstrual disorders, including amenorrhea
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Assisting in the diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), where AMH levels are typically elevated
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Supporting the diagnosis of congenital abnormalities in genital development in children
This makes AMH testing an essential step in understanding a woman’s overall reproductive health.
How Is AMH Testing Performed?
The AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) test is a blood test used to measure AMH levels, which are produced by follicles in the ovaries. It is simple, safe, and requires no special preparation.
Procedure Steps
1. Consultation with a Physician
Although no preparation is required, it is recommended that women consult a doctor beforehand. The clinician will ask about medical history, menstrual patterns, and ongoing fertility treatments, including IVF.
2. Blood Sample Collection
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm. The process takes only a few minutes.
No fasting is required, and the test can be performed at any time—AMH levels are not influenced by menstrual cycle phase.
3. Laboratory Analysis
The blood sample is analyzed to measure serum AMH levels. Results typically return within a few days, depending on the laboratory.
4. Interpretation by a Physician
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High AMH: Indicates good ovarian reserve.
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Low AMH: Suggests diminishing ovarian reserve, which may affect fertility outcomes.
Are There Any Side Effects of AMH Testing?
The AMH test is very safe because it only requires a blood draw. Side effects are rare and mild, including:
• Mild Pain at the Injection Site
A slight stinging or discomfort may occur, which typically resolves within hours.
• Bruising or Redness
A small bruise may appear due to minor blood vessel injury. Cold compresses can help.
• Dizziness or Fatigue
This may occur if the patient is anxious or has not eaten. Resting briefly after the procedure often helps.
• Infection (Very Rare)
Although extremely uncommon, infection at the puncture site can occur. Seek medical attention if swelling, severe pain, or fever develops.
Overall, the AMH test carries very minimal risk and does not disrupt hormonal balance. Women with specific medical concerns should consult a doctor beforehand.
Next Steps After Receiving AMH Test Results
AMH levels play a crucial role in determining the next steps in a fertility plan. The test helps clinicians understand ovarian reserve and tailor treatment strategies accordingly.
If AMH Levels Are Normal or High
This indicates a healthy ovarian reserve. Possible recommendations include:
• Natural Conception Attempts
If no other fertility issues exist, doctors may suggest trying to conceive naturally through cycle monitoring and regular intercourse.
• Mild Ovarian Stimulation
Even with good AMH, light fertility medication may be recommended to increase the chances of ovulation and fertilization.
• Ovulation Monitoring
Using ovulation tests or transvaginal ultrasound to track follicle development.
If AMH Levels Are Low
Low AMH indicates declining ovarian reserve. Women can still conceive, but a faster or more targeted approach may be recommended:
• Intensive Ovarian Stimulation
Higher-dose hormonal medication may be used to encourage the development of more follicles.
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
Recommended if the fallopian tubes are open and sperm quality is good.
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Often suggested for women under 35 or those with very low ovarian reserve, as IVF provides higher success rates by retrieving available eggs directly.
• Egg Freezing Discussions
If pregnancy is not planned soon, freezing eggs while the ovarian reserve is still adequate may be advised.
Additional Evaluations
Regardless of AMH results, doctors may recommend:
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Hysterosalpingography (HSG) to check fallopian tube patency
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Semen analysis for paternal fertility evaluation
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Hormonal tests, including FSH, LH, and estradiol
AMH is just one part of the full fertility picture. Understanding ovarian reserve allows clinicians to determine the most effective and personalized fertility strategy.
Source:
- Punchoo, R., & Bhoora, S. (2021). Variation in the measurement of anti-Müllerian hormone – what are the laboratory issues? Frontiers in Endocrinology, 12, 619381.
- Rudnicka, E., Kunicki, M., Suchta, K., Machura, P., Grymowicz, M., Smolarczyk, R., & Meczekalski, B. (2021). Anti-Müllerian hormone in pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of PCOS. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 22(22), 12384.
- Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) test.
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). In vitro fertilization (IVF).
- WebMD. (2021). What to know about anti-Müllerian hormone levels.







