AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone)

Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) is also called Mullerian-Inhibiting Hormone (MIH). This hormone plays an important role in the development of reproductive organs. It also supports the proper functioning of reproductive organs in both men and women. In men, AMH is produced by the testes. In women, it is produced by the ovaries. AMH levels and its role in the body change with age and gender.

In women, AMH is the best marker to assess ovarian reserve, which means the number and quality of eggs in the ovaries. Ovarian reserve affects a woman’s ability to get pregnant naturally or through fertility treatments. The number of eggs in the ovaries and AMH levels slowly decrease with age. Therefore, measuring AMH helps assess reproductive health and fertility potential.

The doctor may advise an AMH test in women to:

• Estimate the ovarian reserve, or egg quantity
• Assess the fertility potential
• Assist in diagnosing conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
• Guide fertility treatment decisions (for example, IVF)

An increase in AMH levels in women can be linked to fertility problems, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or conditions that cause anovulation (no ovulation during a menstrual cycle) and irregular periods. Low AMH levels may indicate a diminished ovarian reserve, which can affect fertility, especially in women over 35.

In men, AMH is made in high amounts by the testes before puberty. After puberty, levels decrease. Measuring AMH in men can help assess fertility or testicular issues. In babies, this test can help check unclear or underdeveloped genital organs (ambiguous genitalia).

The doctor may recommend an AMH test in men to:

• Evaluate testicular function and sperm-producing ability
• Assess fertility potential
• Detect testicular or reproductive developmental issues
• Help diagnose conditions such as undescended testes or delayed puberty

No special preparation is needed for the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) test. You can eat and drink normally. Avoid birth control pills before the test, as they may affect results. Be sure to inform your doctor about any hormonal medications, recent ovarian surgery, or chemotherapy, as these can influence the results. AMH is generally stable throughout the menstrual cycle, so it can be measured at any time, though small fluctuations may occur, which doctors consider when interpreting borderline results.

AMH test result ranges may vary across the various laboratories depending on the methodology. Do not self-medicate. Always consult your doctor to understand your test results correctly. 

What Are the Symptoms or Conditions That May Require the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) Test?

You may need the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) test if you have symptoms or conditions such as:

• Irregular or missing periods
• Trouble conceiving (infertility)
• Signs of menopause or early ovarian failure (hot flashes, night sweats)
• Suspected PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)
• Low ovarian reserve when planning for pregnancy

You may also need this test if:

• Your doctor wants to check your ovarian response before fertility treatment
• You have had chemotherapy or radiation that may affect ovarian function
• You are being evaluated for IVF or egg freezing
• You are a male infant with undescended testes or unclear genital development

When Would I Need the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) Test?

You may need the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) test if you are:

• Planning a pregnancy or undergoing fertility treatment to check ovarian reserve.
• Having irregular periods or signs of early menopause.
• Diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
• Monitoring ovarian tumors.
• Checking testicular function in men (e.g., testicular problems or delayed puberty).
• Helping identify undescended or absent testes in infants and young boys.

How Do I Prepare for the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) Test?

Do I need to fast or stop any medications before the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) test?

No, fasting is not required before the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) test. You can eat and drink normally before the test. However iInform your doctor if you are on hormonal contraception. Hormonal contraceptives can lower AMH in some women; your doctor will advise whether to interpret results as is or to repeat testing after discontinuation.

How is the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) done?

• The AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) is done by collecting a small amount of blood from a vein, usually in the arm. 
• The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and generally causes only slight discomfort.

What happens during the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) test?

• You will be seated comfortably with your arm supported on a flat surface or armrest.
• A tourniquet (elastic band) is tied around your upper arm to make the veins more visible and easier to locate.
• The phlebotomist identifies a suitable vein for blood collection.
• The puncture site is then cleaned thoroughly with an alcohol swab to reduce the risk of infection.
• A thin, sterile needle is gently inserted into the vein, and a small amount of blood is collected into a test tube.

What happens after the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) test?

• Once enough blood is collected, the tourniquet is released and the needle is removed.
• A cotton ball or gauze is placed on the site, followed by a small bandage or dressing to stop any bleeding.
• The blood sample is carefully labeled with your details and sent to the laboratory for analysis.
• You can resume your daily routine after the test is done.

Is the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) test painful?

No, the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) test is generally safe and painless. You may feel slight discomfort during blood sample collection. However, the chances of serious complications are extremely rare.

How Long Does the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) Test Take?

The procedure is quick, simple, and safe. It requires only a small blood sample and is completed within a short duration.

When Will I Get the Results?

The availability of your test report may vary depending on your location and the laboratory where the test is conducted. In general, Tata 1mg provides the results within the stipulated time after sample collection.

When Should I Consult a Doctor After the Test?

Consult your doctor if:

• Your AMH levels are higher or lower than the healthy range.
• You are planning a pregnancy or undergoing IVF.
• You have irregular periods, early menopause, or fertility problems.
• Your child is being checked for delayed puberty or unclear genital development.

Are There Any Risks Associated with the AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) Test?

The AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) test is safe, with only minimal and short-lasting effects like:

• Small bruise, pinch, or slight tenderness at the puncture site
• Occasional lightheadedness if you are sensitive to needles or blood
• Rarely, infection or blood vessel injury

Note: If you have a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners, inform the phlebotomist beforehand.

What Do the Results Mean?

Pathological Factors 

Physiological Factors

🧬 Age: In women, AMH naturally decreases with age as egg numbers drop. In men, AMH is high early in life and falls after puberty.

💊 Hormonal Treatments: Hormonal contraceptives (combined OCPs and some hormonal methods) can lower measured AMH levels.

🧍‍♀️🧍‍♂️ Reproductive Stage: In women, AMH is highest during reproductive years and drops after menopause. In men, it drops after puberty and stays low.

🩸 Hormonal Disorders: Conditions like PCOS, ovarian failure, or certain hormone problems can change AMH levels.

Lifestyle Factors

🥦 Diet and Weight: Obesity and poor nutrition can affect AMH levels.

🚭 Smoking: Smoking is linked to lower AMH and faster ovarian decline.

😴 Sleep and Stress: Poor sleep and high stress can influence hormonal balance.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

What Do Normal AMH Levels Mean?

Normal AMH levels indicate healthy reproductive function.

• In women, they show a normal ovarian reserve and a good number of developing eggs.
• In men, they reflect healthy testicular function and proper Sertoli cell activity, which are important for reproductive growth.

What Do High AMH Levels Indicate?

• In women, high AMH may suggest polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and can indicate a higher antral follicle count; very high AMH may also occur with granulosa-cell ovarian tumors. Clinical correlation is essential. 
• In men, high AMH is normal in early life. In older men, very high levels are rare but may indicate testicular or Sertoli cell issues.

What To Do If Your AMH Is Higher Than Normal?

If your AMH is higher than normal, your doctor may suggest additional tests:

• For women: Hormone tests or an ultrasound to check for PCOS or the risk of ovarian over-response during fertility treatments.
• For men: Hormone tests or imaging to check testicular health and rule out rare tumors.

What Do Low AMH Levels Indicate?

Low AMH levels can mean reduced fertility potential:

In women: It may indicate a low ovarian reserve, approaching menopause, or reduced chances of conceiving.

In men: It may suggest underdeveloped or damaged testes or reduced Sertoli cell function, which can happen in delayed puberty or certain congenital conditions.

Can AMH Results Be Inaccurate?

Yes. AMH results can vary due to individual factors such as age, hormonal changes, or medical conditions. It is important to interpret results alongside other hormonal and clinical findings.

What Factors Can Affect AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) Results?

Though it is a reliable test, several factors can influence accuracy:

• Age
• Birth control pills or hormone therapy
• Medical conditions such as PCOS, ovarian cysts, or hormonal disorders
• Lifestyle factors

What Follow-Up Tests May Be Required?

Based on your AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) test results, your doctor may suggest additional tests to evaluate fertility, ovarian reserve, or reproductive health more comprehensively. These may include:

Table: Tests Commonly Ordered Alongside AMH Test

How Does the AMH Test Differ from Other Hormone Tests?

It is important to understand how the Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) test differs from other common hormone tests:

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): Shows hormones that help egg growth, but levels change during the menstrual cycle, so timing matters.

LH (Luteinizing Hormone): Monitors ovulation and pituitary function. Levels also change through the cycle.

Estradiol (E2): Shows current estrogen levels, which can vary daily. AMH shows the total egg supply instead.

Prolactin: Checks for hormone problems that affect ovulation or milk production. AMH specifically measures the number and quality of eggs.

Lifestyle Tips To Maintain Healthy AMH Levels 

🏋Healthy weight: Maintain a healthy weight to support hormonal balance and optimal AMH levels.

🥙Eat (Diet): Include vitamin D, omega-3s, and plant-based proteins in your diet to support your AMH levels and fertility.

🚴Activity (Exercise): Do regular moderate exercise to improve hormone balance and overall health.

😌Lifestyle (Stress): Manage stress with yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to help balance hormones and support healthy AMH levels. 

👩‍⚕️Talk to Your Doctor (Consult): Consult your doctor for personalized guidance on AMH testing, fertility, and potential supplements. 

🍺Habits (Alcohol & Smoking): These habits can negatively affect your hormonal balance and reduce AMH levels.