- AMH is a blood test used to estimate your remaining egg count (ovarian reserve).
- The test does not measure egg quality, which is a crucial factor in fertility.
- Your result is interpreted based on your age, as AMH levels naturally decline over time.
- A low AMH does not mean you can't conceive naturally, but it might influence decisions around fertility treatment.
What is AMH and Ovarian Reserve?
AMH stands for Anti-Müllerian Hormone. It's a protein produced by the small follicles in your ovaries, each of which contains a developing egg. The amount of AMH in your blood gives us a reliable snapshot of how many eggs you have left at that moment in time.
We call this your 'ovarian reserve'. It's important to understand that this is purely a measure of quantity, not quality. Every woman is born with a lifetime's supply of eggs, and this number naturally declines throughout your life.
How is AMH Tested and What Do the Results Mean?
The test is a simple blood sample that can be taken at any point in your menstrual cycle. The results are usually given as a number, measured in picomoles per litre (pmol/L) in the UK.
A higher number suggests a greater number of remaining eggs, while a lower number indicates a lower reserve. This result is always interpreted in the context of your age. A 'low' result for a 28-year-old might be considered normal for a 38-year-old.
What an AMH Test Cannot Tell You
The biggest limitation of the AMH test is that it cannot tell us anything about the quality of your eggs. Egg quality is largely determined by age and is the most important factor for a successful pregnancy. The test also cannot predict your chances of conceiving naturally in any given month.
Where it is extremely useful is in the context of fertility treatment like IVF. It helps us predict how your ovaries might respond to stimulation drugs and guides us in choosing the right dose for you. It's a tool for planning, not a final verdict on your fertility.
Frequently asked questions
Can I improve my AMH level?
Not directly. Lifestyle changes can't increase your egg count, but they can improve egg quality, which is just as important. Focusing on a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight is the best way to support your overall fertility.
Does a high AMH mean I'm more fertile?
A high AMH level, often seen in conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), indicates a high number of eggs, but not necessarily better fertility. It can sometimes be associated with irregular cycles, so it's a result that needs to be interpreted in the context of your overall picture.
What is a 'normal' AMH level for my age?
AMH levels naturally decline with age, so 'normal' is a range that changes depending on how old you are. We assess your result against the expected average for your age group rather than a single 'normal' number.
Will the NHS test my AMH?
The NHS typically funds an AMH test as part of wider fertility investigations when you meet certain criteria, which can vary by area. If you're just curious about your ovarian reserve, you might need to arrange a test privately.
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