Overview
AMH is an important marker of fertility that indicates ovarian reserve. This article discusses normal AMH ranges by age, what high or low levels signify, their impact on egg freezing and IVF, and lifestyle factors that can help maintain ovarian health.
What is AMH, and why is it important?
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is produced by cells in the ovarian follicles and serves as a strong indicator of a woman’s ovarian reserve, which is the number of eggs remaining in the ovaries. Since AMH levels decline with age, they can be used to predict reproductive lifespan and fertility potential.
Doctors measure AMH to assess how the ovaries might respond to fertility treatments like IVF, as well as to identify conditions such as diminished ovarian reserve or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Unlike other fertility hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH), which fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, AMH remains relatively constant; therefore, AMH provides a reliable measure of fertility health.
AMH Normal Range in Females by Age
AMH levels decrease as women age due to a reduction in the number of eggs in the ovaries. Young women with higher AMH levels have a good ovarian reserve, whereas older women with lower levels have fewer remaining eggs as they approach menopause. Understanding the normal AMH levels in females enables doctors to assess reproductive potential and develop personalised treatment plans. Typical values may vary based on individual health factors and testing methods, making it important to recognise any inherent variability.
| Age Group | Normal AMH Level (ng/mL) | Fertility Indication |
|---|---|---|
| 20–24 years | 4.5 – 6.0 | Excellent ovarian reserve |
| 25–29 years | 3.0 – 5.4 | Good ovarian reserve |
| 30–34 years | 2.0 – 4.5 | Moderate ovarian reserve |
| 35–39 years | 1.0 – 3.0 | Reduced ovarian reserve |
| 40–44 years | 0.5 – 1.5 | Low ovarian reserve |
| 45+ years | < 0.5 | Very low ovarian reserve or nearing menopause |
Regular AMH testing can help track changes in ovarian reserve and support timely fertility planning.
AMH Levels Normal Range and Egg Freezing
AMH levels are crucial in determining the optimal time to freeze eggs when a woman chooses to do so, as they serve as a key indicator of a woman’s ovarian reserve. Results from an AMH test can assist the doctor in creating a personalised treatment plan and predicting how the ovaries will respond to stimulation during the egg-freezing process.
- Women with low AMH levels are often advised to freeze their eggs sooner than those with normal AMH levels because their ovarian reserve may decline more rapidly.
- Women with AMH levels in the normal range, in comparison, tend to show better stimulation responses, leading to more mature oocytes that are suitable for freezing.
Women with high AMH levels, often linked to PCOS, are theoretically more at risk of overstimulation, and ultimately, those women will be closely monitored throughout the process by their doctors.
To summarise, the decision to freeze eggs should ultimately depend on when to do so, guided by the AMH test and the woman's age, as well as her overall fertility health, to maximise the chances of a successful reproductive outcome.
| S.No. | Age | Average number of eggs frozen per cycle | Minimum number of frozen eggs required for a 50% chance of live birth | AMH levels required to reach the optimum egg level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | < 34 years | 17.2 | 7 | 1.25 ng/mL |
| 2. | 35 - 37 years | 15.48 | 9 | 1.50 ng/mL |
| 3. | 38 - 40 years | 12.87 | 11 | 1.75 ng/mL |
| 4. | > 41 years | 9.67 | 20 | 2.25 ng/mL |
What Do High & Low AMH Levels Mean?
AMH levels help doctors understand ovarian function and fertility potential. High AMH levels usually indicate good ovarian reserve. This means that a woman has more eggs available either for ovulation or for fertility treatments. However, extremely high AMH may also indicate polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is characterised by many small follicles that may not mature, and this can increase the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation with IVF. Lower AMH levels usually indicate a reduced supply of eggs, and this is most commonly related to age or decreased ovarian reserve and can happen with previous medical treatments, such as chemotherapy or ovarian surgery.
Several factors can influence AMH test results, which can include:
- Age: AMH levels decline gradually as women age.
- Genetics: Family medical history can affect ovarian reserve.
- Lifestyle: Smoking, poor diet, and high stress can influence AMH levels.
- Medical conditions: PCOS, endometriosis, thyroid issues, and others can impact AMH levels.
- Fertility medications: Hormonal treatments can alter AMH levels, sometimes temporarily.
Can AMH Levels Be Improved Naturally?
AMH reflects a woman’s ovarian reserve and generally decreases with age. While AMH levels cannot be significantly boosted by any means, certain approaches, such as lifestyle modifications and medical treatments, may enhance overall ovarian function and possibly fertility. Even with minimal changes to AMH, improving egg quality, hormone balance, and overall lifestyle can positively affect reproductive outcomes.
- Maintain a balanced body weight: A healthy body weight can help regulate hormones.
- Eat a nutrient-rich diet: Foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3s, folate, and zinc can improve egg quality.
- Manage stress: Yoga, meditation, and counselling can help you manage stress, which can disrupt hormonal balance.
- Supplement intake: Consider taking supplements like CoQ10, DHEA, and vitamin D under the guidance of a healthcare professional to support egg health.
- Seek medical assistance: To curate your own tailored treatment plan, visit a fertility specialist.
Conclusion
To summarise, it is crucial for couples to be aware of AMH levels when analysing their fertility potential. Although AMH levels cannot be modified by adequate lifestyle changes, they can improve your fertility outcomes. Always seek medical advice as early as possible to optimise ovarian function. With the right guidance, lifestyle choices, and timely interventions, many women can take proactive steps to preserve their fertility and make informed decisions about their reproductive future.
Common Questions Asked
What is the normal AMH level for a 30-year-old woman?
A normal AMH level for a 30-year-old is 2.0–4.5 ng/mL. This indicates a good ovarian reserve.
Can you get pregnant with low AMH levels?
Yes, you can get pregnant with low AMH levels. However, since egg quantity is low, you might need medical intervention.
How often should AMH levels be checked?
AMH can be checked once a year or as advised by a fertility specialist, especially if planning pregnancy or monitoring ovarian reserve
Does AMH affect IVF success rates?
AMH levels are monitored for IVF. However, it doesn’t entirely determine IVF success rates. Egg quality, age, and overall reproductive health play bigger roles.
Is 7.5 AMH good?
An AMH of 7.5 ng/mL is high, often seen in younger women or those with PCOS. It indicates a strong ovarian reserve but may require careful monitoring during fertility treatments.