What Is the AMH Test? What Is the AMH Test Used For?
What Is the AMH Test?
AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) is a hormone secreted by the cells of small developing follicles in the ovaries. The AMH level measured in the blood provides information about the pool of follicles in the ovaries. It is therefore used particularly for assessing ovarian reserve and to help predict how the ovaries may respond to stimulation medications before IVF treatment.
AMH does not directly count the number of eggs in the ovaries; on its own, it does not indicate egg quality, the likelihood of conceiving naturally, or infertility. A low AMH level does not mean that pregnancy is impossible, and a normal or high AMH level does not mean that pregnancy will occur easily. It should be assessed alongside age, menstrual history, ultrasound findings, health status and other tests.
Why Is an AMH Test Requested?
A doctor may request an AMH test in the following situations:
- To help assess ovarian reserve
- To assess the expected response before IVF or ovarian stimulation treatment
- As part of an infertility assessment
- Alongside other findings in the diagnosis and monitoring of certain ovarian tumours
An AMH result alone does not replace a fertility assessment and cannot diagnose infertility on its own. Ovarian reserve tests do not reliably predict the chance of natural conception; a low result alone does not indicate that pregnancy is impossible.
Does AMH Replace the FSH Test?
Unlike FSH, AMH is secreted by small follicles in the ovaries and generally does not need to be measured on a specific day of the menstrual cycle. However, AMH is not a test that replaces FSH in every situation. When necessary, the doctor may interpret AMH alongside FSH, estradiol, an ultrasound antral follicle count and a clinical assessment.
Does AMH Predict When Menopause Will Occur?
AMH levels generally decline with age; however, a single AMH result cannot determine with certainty when a person will reach menopause. Menopause is assessed based on age, menstrual patterns and symptoms. In particular, AMH testing is not recommended to diagnose menopause in people aged 45 and over who have typical symptoms.
AMH and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
AMH levels may be elevated in PCOS; however, a high AMH level alone cannot establish a diagnosis of PCOS. The 2023 international guideline states that AMH may be used as part of the diagnostic algorithm in adults, but that it should not be used as a standalone diagnostic test and should not be used to diagnose PCOS in adolescents.
How Is the AMH Test Performed?
The AMH test is performed using a blood sample, and fasting is generally not required. The test can usually be performed on any day of the menstrual cycle; however, as AMH levels may vary depending on age, hormonal medications used and the laboratory method, the result should be assessed by a doctor. Hormonal contraceptive medications, in particular, may affect AMH levels.
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You can visit our Nicosia or Kyrenia branches in Northern Cyprus for testing. We recommend reviewing your results with your doctor.