Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH)

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is a protein hormone produced by cells in the ovarian follicles in females and by the testes in males. It plays a crucial role in reproductive development and fertility assessment. Here’s a breakdown of its significance:

What is AMH?

• In females, AMH is secreted by granulosa cells in ovarian follicles.
• In males, it is produced by Sertoli cells in the testes during fetal development to inhibit the formation of female reproductive structures.

AMH Test: Purpose

An AMH blood test is commonly used to:

• Estimate ovarian reserve (the number of remaining eggs).
• Assess fertility potential, especially before IVF or other fertility treatments.
• Diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or granulosa cell tumors.
• Monitor ovarian function during or after cancer treatment.

AMH Levels and Interpretation

• High AMH: May indicate a high ovarian reserve or PCOS.
• Low AMH: Suggests a diminished ovarian reserve, common with aging or premature ovarian insufficiency.
• Undetectable AMH: Often seen post-menopause or after ovarian failure.

Important: AMH levels do not predict the ability to conceive naturally or the quality of the eggs. They are one piece of the fertility puzzle.

AMH and Age

1. AMH levels peak in the mid-20s and decline with age.
2. By menopause, AMH levels typically fall to undetectable levels.
3. For actual numbers, consider these estimates, which are on the lower side of the spectrum for each respective age:
4. 25 years old: 3.0 ng/mL.
5. 30 years old: 2.5 ng/mL.
6. 35 years old: 1.5 ng/ mL.
7. 40 years old: 1 ng/mL.
8. 45 years old: 0.5 ng/mL.

Higher AMH levels aren’t always a good thing. AMH may be high in some people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

References

[1] : Cleveland Clinic – AMH Test Overview
[2]: MedlinePlus – AMH Test