AMH test at Avida Fertility

At Avida Fertility, we know how important it is to understand your fertility to make informed decisions about your reproductive future. The AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) test is one of the most accurate tools for evaluating your ovarian reserve, helping you to know how many eggs you have available and what your reproductive potential is. This test is essential both for women considering pregnancy and for those who want to preserve their fertility for the future.

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Know your fertility with the AMH test

From the initial consultation to the interpretation of the results, each stage of the evaluation is designed to provide you with peace of mind and clarity on your path to motherhood.

1: Initial consultation and personalized advice

The process begins with a consultation with our fertility specialists, where we discuss your medical history, lifestyle and reproductive goals. We'll discuss your expectations and answer any questions you may have about your fertility. This stage is crucial in determining the need for AMH testing and other complementary evaluations.

2: Carrying out the AMH test

The AMH test is a simple blood test that measures the amount of anti-Müllerian hormone in your body, which indicates the number of eggs available in your ovaries. Unlike other hormone tests, this one can be done at any time during the menstrual cycle and requires no special preparation. The sample is taken in our clinic with total comfort and safety.

3: Interpretation of the results

Once we obtain the test results, our specialists will explain what the test means in detail. AMH levels may indicate a high, normal or low ovarian reserve, allowing us to design a reproductive plan adapted to your situation. It's important to remember that the AMH test doesn't measure egg quality, so it's often combined with other tests to provide a more complete picture of fertility.

4: Planning for your reproductive future

Based on the test results, we'll help you explore the best options for your reproductive future. If your AMH levels are low, we may suggest egg preservation, while if the results are optimal, you can plan your pregnancy more safely. Our team will provide you with personalized recommendations to optimize your fertility and ensure that you make the best decisions for your life.

Ready to know your ovarian reserve?

At Avida Fertility, we're here to support you every step of your journey to motherhood. Contact us today to schedule your AMH test and get the information you need to plan your reproductive future with confidence.

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Foundations

What exactly is the anti-Müllerian hormone?

La Antimüllerian hormone (AMH) is a protein produced by granulosa cells that surround developing eggs within ovarian follicles. This hormone performs different functions depending on gender and stage of life. During embryonic development, AMH participates in sexual differentiation, while in female reproductive age, it becomes an important biological fertility marker.

AMH is mainly produced in the small preantral and antral follicles of the ovary. Its presence in the bloodstream directly reflects the number of growing follicles, providing an objective estimate of the ovarian reserve. Unlike other fertility-related hormones, AMH maintains relatively stable levels throughout the menstrual cycle, making it a reliable indicator for medical evaluations.

In women of reproductive age, AMH levels peak around age 25 and then begin to decline progressively with age, reflecting the natural reduction of ovarian reserve. This feature makes the AMH test particularly valuable for reproductive planning and fertility counseling.

Reproductive specialists consider AMH to be one of the more accurate biomarkers currently available to evaluate ovarian reserve and female reproductive potential. Its role in reproductive medicine has become fundamental to personalizing treatments and offering realistic expectations to patients.

Why is it important to measure AMH levels in fertility studies?

The measurement of AMH levels has become an essential tool in fertility studies for multiple fundamental reasons. First, it provides objective information about the approximate number of eggs available in a woman's ovaries, allowing specialists to more accurately assess her current reproductive potential.

This test is particularly valuable for predicting ovarian response to medications used in treatments of assisted reproduction Like the in vitro fertilization (IVF). AMH levels help doctors customize ovarian stimulation protocols, minimizing risks and optimizing outcomes. A woman with low levels of AMH may require higher doses of medication, while those with high levels may need more conservative protocols to avoid hyperstimulation.

In addition, AMH can identify conditions that affect fertility, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), characterized by high levels of this hormone. It also provides valuable information for women considering the egg preservation, helping them to make timely decisions about their reproductive future.

Specialists use this information to provide personalized advice on the most appropriate treatment options and to set realistic expectations about the chances of success, contributing to informed reproductive planning.

How does AMH compare to other fertility tests?

The AMH test offers distinct advantages when compared to other female fertility evaluations. Unlike follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol, whose levels fluctuate significantly during the menstrual cycle, AMH maintains a remarkable stability throughout the month. This allows the test to be performed at any time, without the need to schedule it for specific days of the cycle, providing greater flexibility to patients and doctors.

Another important advantage is that AMH levels are not affected by the use of hormonal contraceptives, meaning that women who use these methods can obtain reliable results without the need to interrupt their contraceptive method. This feature is particularly useful for those who want to evaluate their fertility while planning their reproductive future.

Compared to counting antral follicles using transvaginal ultrasound, the AMH test offers results that are less dependent on the operator and equipment used. However, the more complete evaluation of female fertility is achieved by combining both methods, together with the measurement of other hormones such as FSH and estradiol.

Importantly, although AMH is an excellent indicator of the number of eggs available, it does not provide information about their quality. For this reason, specialists in Fertility usually recommend a comprehensive evaluation that includes multiple complementary tests to obtain a more complete view of reproductive potential.

What role does AMH play in predicting menopause?

The AMH has proven to be a useful biomarker to estimate the proximity of menopause, although with certain limitations. Scientific studies indicate that there is a correlation between the progressive decline in AMH levels and the approach to menopause, with levels practically undetectable approximately five years before the definitive cessation of menstrual cycles.

This predictive ability allows medical professionals to provide guidance on a woman's remaining reproductive window. However, it is important to note that prediction based solely on AMH has a considerable margin of error at the individual level, since the transition to menopause is influenced by multiple genetic and environmental factors.

For women with a family history of early menopause or premature ovarian failure, monitoring AMH levels may be especially valuable. It allows them to make informed decisions about family planning and consider options such as preserving fertility before a significant decline in your ovarian reserve occurs.

Specialists use this predictive information to advise patients on the optimal time to try to conceive or to consider fertility treatments, particularly in women over 35 whose natural fertility begins to decline more rapidly. This orientation allows you to establish realistic expectations and plan appropriate reproductive strategies.

Procedure

How is the AMH test done?

The AMH test is performed using a blood tests simple and fast that can be performed in any specialized clinical laboratory. Unlike other hormone tests related to fertility, one of the main advantages of measuring AMH is that it can be performed on any day of the menstrual cycle, since its levels remain relatively constant throughout the month.

For the procedure, a small sample of blood, usually from a vein in the arm, is drawn using a sterile needle. The extraction usually takes less than five minutes and causes only minimal discomfort. No special preparation such as prior fasting is required, and patients can continue their normal activities immediately afterward.

Another important advantage is that the test can be performed even if the woman is using hormonal contraceptives, since these do not significantly affect blood levels of AMH. This makes it easier to evaluate fertility without the need to interrupt the contraceptive method.

The samples are processed in specialized laboratories using immunoassay techniques that precisely measure the concentration of AMH in the blood. Results are generally available within a few days and are expressed in nanograms per milliliter (ng/ml). These results are interpreted by specialists in female fertility considering the patient's age and the specific clinical context.

What preparation does the AMH test require?

One of the most notable advantages of the AMH test is that it requires Minimal preparation on the patient's part. Unlike other hormone tests that need to be performed on specific days of the menstrual cycle or under particular conditions, the measurement of AMH offers greater flexibility and convenience.

It is not necessary to go on an empty stomach to perform this test, allowing it to be scheduled at any convenient time of the day. There are also no dietary or medication restrictions that need to be observed beforehand, with the exception of certain specific hormonal treatments that the doctor may indicate temporarily discontinuing if necessary.

Patients can continue to take hormonal contraceptives before the test, as they do not significantly alter AMH levels. This represents a significant advantage over other fertility tests that require the discontinuation of these medications.

It is recommended to inform the doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking, especially those related to fertility treatments or hormonal conditions. Although most do not interfere with the results, this information allows for a more accurate interpretation.

The specialist in Fertility will provide specific indications if there are any particular considerations based on the patient's individual medical history, thus ensuring reliable results are obtained for an appropriate evaluation.

How long does it take to get the test results?

The waiting time to receive the results of the AMH test varies depending on the medical facility and the laboratory that processes the sample, but generally ranges from 2 to 7 days Skillful. Some centers specialized in reproductive medicine offer faster results, even within 24-48 hours, thanks to the implementation of advanced processing technologies.

The process includes several steps: first, the sample must be properly transported to the laboratory maintaining specific temperature and handling conditions. It is then processed using immunoassay techniques that require specialized equipment. Finally, the results are validated by laboratory professionals and sent to the requesting physician.

The centers of Fertility Modern technologies often have digital systems that allow patients to access their results through online platforms, significantly streamlining the process. However, it is important to remember that the proper interpretation of these results requires the evaluation of a specialist, who will consider factors such as age, medical history and other fertility parameters.

Most specialists schedule a follow-up visit to discuss the results and their clinical significance, usually within one to two weeks after performing the test. During this appointment, AMH levels are evaluated in the context of each patient's particular situation and a personalized plan is developed if necessary.

How often should you get tested for AMH?

The recommended frequency for performing the AMH test varies depending on the individual situation of each woman, her age and her reproductive goals. There is no single protocol applicable to all patients, but specialists usually follow some general guidelines based on current scientific evidence.

For women under 35 with no known fertility problems or a family history of early menopause, an initial AMH evaluation may be sufficient as Basal reference. This measurement provides valuable information about your current ovarian reserve and can serve as a point of comparison for future evaluations if necessary.

For women over 35 who plan to delay motherhood, specialists usually recommend more frequent evaluations, approximately every 1-2 years. This frequency increases as they approach age 40, when the decline in ovarian reserve tends to accelerate.

For patients being treated for fertility problems or undergoing treatment techniques assisted reproduction, the measurement of AMH can be performed as part of the initial evaluation and later according to medical judgment to adjust treatments or strategies.

Women with conditions that may affect ovarian reserve, such as endometriosis, a history of ovarian surgery, chemotherapy or pelvic radiation therapy, may benefit from closer monitoring, with annual or even biannual evaluations as recommended by their specialist in female fertility.

Interpretation

What are the normal values of AMH depending on age?

AMH levels vary significantly depending on a woman's age, reflecting the natural decline in ovarian reserve over time. It is important to interpret these values considering the specific age, since what is considered Normal changes at every stage of reproductive life.

In young women between 18 and 25 years old, typical AMH levels usually range between 3.0 and 6.5 ng/ml, representing an optimal ovarian reserve. During the 1930s, these values begin to decline gradually, with ranges considered normal between 2.0 and 4.0 ng/ml. This decline accelerates after age 35, when normal levels are usually between 1.0 and 3.0 ng/ml.

As they approach age 40, it is expected to find values between 0.5 and 1.5 ng/ml in women with an ovarian reserve appropriate to their age. Finally, in women over 45, normal levels may drop below 0.5 ng/ml, reflecting the proximity of the menopausal transition.

It is essential to understand that these ranges are indicative and may vary depending on the laboratory and the technique used for the measurement. Specialists in Fertility interpret these results considering not only the numerical values but also the complete clinical context of each patient.

Although higher values generally indicate greater ovarian reserve, excessively high levels can be associated with conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, which require further evaluation by a specialist.

What does it mean to have low AMH levels?

When a woman has low levels of AMH, usually below 1.0 ng/ml, this indicates a decreased ovarian reserve, which means that the number of eggs available in the ovaries is lower than expected for your age. This situation can have several clinical implications that must be carefully evaluated by a specialist.

First, low levels of AMH may suggest a lower chance of natural conception, especially in women over 35. However, it's crucial to understand that AMH primarily reflects the quantity of eggs available, not necessarily their quality. A woman with low AMH can still achieve a natural pregnancy if she produces good quality eggs.

For patients undergoing treatments of assisted reproduction, low AMH levels may predict a reduced response to ovarian stimulation, which may require special protocols and higher doses of medications. Specialists can recommend techniques such as in vitro fertilization with protocols adapted to this condition.

In some cases, low ovarian reserve at an early age may indicate premature ovarian failure or a predisposition to early menopause. These situations require medical follow-up and consideration of options such as the preservation of fertility through egg freezing if motherhood is planned for the future.

It is important to note that a low AMH value does not mean absolute impossibility of conceiving. Adapted treatment strategies can improve the chances of success, and some studies suggest that leading a healthy lifestyle could optimize existing ovarian function.

What does it mean to have high levels of AMH?

Elevated AMH levels, generally considered to be above 3.5-4.0 ng/ml, may have different clinical interpretations that require specialized evaluation. In young women, high values may simply reflect a abundant ovarian reserve and healthy, indicating good natural reproductive potential.

However, excessively high levels, especially when accompanied by specific symptoms, may be indicative of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This condition is characterized by multiple small follicles in the ovaries that produce increased amounts of AMH. PCOS is often associated with menstrual irregularities, ovulation problems, insulin resistance and dermatological manifestations such as acne or excessive body hair growth.

In the context of treatments of assisted reproduction, women with high AMH usually show an intense response to ovarian stimulation medications. This may represent an advantage in obtaining a larger number of eggs, but it also carries a greater risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, a complication that requires careful monitoring.

Patients with high levels of AMH who undergo techniques such as in vitro fertilization generally require more conservative stimulation protocols, with lower initial doses of gonadotropins and close monitoring to adjust medication according to the ovarian response.

It is important to remember that, although high levels are usually associated with greater ovarian response potential, this does not automatically guarantee better pregnancy rates, since other factors such as oocyte quality, endometrial receptivity and male factors also significantly influence reproductive success.

How do AMH results affect fertility treatments?

The results of the AMH test have a significant impact on the planning and development of fertility treatments, allowing specialists to customize interventions according to the specific characteristics of each patient. This hormone works like a important predictor of the ovarian response to medications used in assisted reproduction.

For women with low levels of AMH (less than 1.0 ng/ml), specialists often adapt ovarian stimulation protocols using higher doses of gonadotropins and, sometimes, incorporating adjunct strategies to optimize response. In these cases, they may also recommend proceeding directly to techniques of in vitro fertilization instead of less intensive treatments such as ovulation induction or artificial insemination, due to the potentially limited reproductive window.

In the opposite case, patients with high levels of AMH receive more conservative stimulation protocols to minimize the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation. This may include lower initial doses of medication, use of GnRH antagonists, or consideration of techniques such as in vitro oocyte maturation in selected cases.

AMH also influences the decision about the type of medication and the optimal time to start treatments. Some patients with severely diminished ovarian reserve may benefit from considering alternative options, such as reception of donated eggs or adoption, depending on their personal values and family goals.

Specialists use this information to set realistic expectations about the chances of success and the possible number of cycles needed, allowing couples to make informed decisions about their path to parenthood.

Factors

What factors affect AMH levels?

AMH levels are influenced by a variety of factors, both intrinsic and extrinsic, that must be considered when interpreting the results of this test. The most determining factor is Age, with a natural and progressive decrease in AMH levels as women age chronologically, reflecting the physiological reduction of ovarian reserve.

Certain genetic factors play an important role, such as mutations in the FMR1 and BRCA1/2 genes, which have been associated with variations in AMH levels and in the rate of decline in ovarian reserve. A family history of early menopause may also be correlated with more rapid declines in levels of this hormone.

A number of medical conditions significantly affect AMH values. Polycystic ovary syndrome often produces high levels due to the greater number of antral follicles that produce this hormone. In contrast, endometriosis, especially when it requires ovarian surgery, can be associated with reduced levels.

Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and pelvic radiation therapy can cause dramatic and sometimes permanent decreases in AMH levels, reflecting damage to ovarian follicles. This is a crucial consideration for young women who are facing these treatments and want preserve your fertility.

Lifestyle-related factors such as chronic smoking are associated with lower levels of AMH. Recent research also suggests possible associations between vitamin D levels, body mass index and stress levels with levels of this hormone, although the evidence is not yet conclusive.

Can it improve ovarian reserve and AMH levels?

Current scientific evidence indicates that ovarian reserve, as reflected in AMH levels, is primarily determined by genetic factors and age, and cannot be significantly increased by external interventions. However, there are strategies that can help optimize reproductive health generally and potentially slow down the natural decline of ovarian function.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle forms the basis for maintaining optimal ovarian health. This includes following a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, maintaining an adequate body weight, regular moderate exercise and avoiding the consumption of tobacco, whose negative effect on ovarian reserve is well scientifically documented.

Some preliminary research suggests that correcting vitamin D deficiencies may have positive effects on ovarian function, although not necessarily on AMH levels directly. Other studies have explored the role of supplements such as DHEA, coenzyme Q10 and melatonin, particularly in women with low ovarian reserve, with variable results that require more research.

Importantly, no intervention has been shown to consistently and significantly increase AMH levels in rigorous clinical studies. For this reason, specialists in Fertility recommend focusing on proven strategies to maximize the chances of reproductive success with existing ovarian reserve, such as egg preservation in the early stages for women who plan to delay motherhood.

For women with low AMH, personalized ovarian stimulation protocols in assisted reproduction treatments can optimize the response of the remaining follicles, thus improving the chances of success even with a diminished ovarian reserve.

What medical conditions can alter AMH results?

A variety of medical conditions can significantly influence AMH test results, affecting their interpretation and clinical decisions based on these values. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common disorders, characterized by high levels of AMH due to the larger number of small antral follicles that produce this hormone. These increased values do not necessarily reflect better fertility, as many patients with PCOS have difficulty ovulating naturally.

Endometriosis, especially in advanced stages or when it has required ovarian surgery, may be associated with decreased levels of AMH. Removing or damaging ovarian tissue during surgical procedures reduces the number of follicles that produce this hormone. Similarly, a history of ovarian cystectomy, ovarian torsion, or ectopic pregnancy with ovarian involvement may result in lower values.

Oncological treatments such as chemotherapy and pelvic radiation therapy have particularly devastating effects on ovarian reserve. The magnitude of the impact depends on the type of chemotherapy agent, cumulative dose, patient age and pre-treatment ovarian reserve. Women who plan to undergo these treatments should consider options for fertility preservation previously.

Genetic conditions such as primary ovarian failure, Turner syndrome or carriers of a premutation of the FMR1 gene (associated with Fragile X syndrome) often present reduced levels of AMH from an early age. Some systemic autoimmune diseases can also affect ovarian function and, consequently, levels of this hormone.

Finally, certain medications such as GnRH agonists used to treat endometriosis or uterine fibroids can cause temporary suppression of AMH levels, although these generally return to baseline values after stopping treatment.

Is there a relationship between AMH and the possibility of natural pregnancy?

The relationship between AMH levels and the chances of achieving a natural pregnancy is complex and must be carefully interpreted. While the AMH provides valuable information on number of eggs available, does not directly measure its quality, which is a determining factor for successful natural conception.

Scientific studies have shown that women with higher levels of AMH tend to maintain their natural fertility for longer periods of time. However, there is no specific AMH value that can predict with certainty whether a woman will be able to conceive naturally or not. Even women with low levels can achieve spontaneous pregnancies if oocyte quality is adequate and there are no other infertility factors.

It is important to consider that natural fertility depends on multiple factors besides ovarian reserve, including the permeability of the fallopian tubes, the quality of the partner's sperm, the frequency of sexual intercourse and the woman's age, the latter being a more powerful predictor of reproductive success than AMH. For this reason, specialists in Fertility recommend interpreting the AMH values as part of a comprehensive evaluation, never in isolation.

For women with moderately decreased levels who want to conceive naturally, maximizing the frequency of sexual intercourse during the fertile period and optimizing other reproductive health factors can significantly increase the chances of success. Specialized medical advice is essential to develop personalized strategies based on each patient's complete hormonal profile.

Applications

How is AMH used in assisted reproduction treatments?

The AMH test has become a fundamental tool in assisted reproduction protocols, allowing specialists to customize treatments according to the specific characteristics of each patient. Its main application is the prediction of ovarian response to stimulation medications used in techniques such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).

In clinical practice, AMH levels guide crucial decisions about the type and dose of medications to be used. For patients with high values (typically above 3.5 ng/ml), specialists usually opt for protocols with lower starting doses of gonadotropins and frequent monitoring to prevent ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. In contrast, women with low levels of AMH may benefit from specific “low response” protocols with higher doses and, sometimes, hormonal adjuvants to optimize follicular recruitment.

The AMH also helps to set realistic expectations about the potential number of eggs that could be obtained in each cycle of IVF, which influences decisions about the recommended number of cycles and the possible need to accumulate eggs or embryos through multiple stimulation cycles to increase the cumulative chances of success.

In programs of egg donation, AMH is one of the criteria used to select suitable donors, looking for values that indicate a good ovarian reserve to maximize the response to stimulation. This is particularly relevant in programs of shared eggs where it is sought to obtain enough eggs for multiple recipients.

The modern protocols of fertility preservation they also use AMH to design stimulation strategies that maximize the number of vitrified eggs, considering that each frozen egg represents approximately a 5-8% chance of a live birth in the future.

Why is AMH relevant for women who plan to delay motherhood?

AMH has become an essential parameter for women considering delaying motherhood, providing critical information about their current ovarian reserve which allows informed decisions to be made about family planning. This hormone provides an objective view of the present reproductive potential, although it cannot accurately predict how many years of natural fertility remain.

For professional women considering delaying motherhood for educational, professional or personal reasons, knowing their AMH levels allows them to develop a realistic reproductive strategy. Higher levels may provide some peace of mind about the existence of a larger reproductive window, while lower values for chronological age warn of the possible need to reconsider the reproductive calendar or explore fertility preservation options.

AMH is particularly valuable for identifying cases of accelerated ovarian aging, where ovarian reserve decreases more rapidly than expected depending on chronological age. This condition may remain silent until a woman attempts to conceive, at which time she may face unexpected difficulties related to a low ovarian reserve.

Based on the results of AMH and other fertility markers, specialists may recommend the vitrification of eggs as a strategy to preserve current reproductive potential. This technique allows “freezing biological time”, preserving eggs with the quality corresponding to the woman's age at the time of extraction, which can be used years later when she decides to seek pregnancy.

It is important to highlight that the AMH should be interpreted as part of a comprehensive evaluation, always considering chronological age as a determining factor in decision-making. Specialists in female fertility offer personalized counseling based on these parameters to help each woman develop her optimal reproductive plan.

What role does AMH play in the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine condition affecting approximately 5-10% of women of reproductive age. In recent years, the measurement of AMH levels has gained relevance as complementary tool in the diagnosis of this condition, providing objective information on ovarian characteristics.

Women with PCOS typically have high levels of AMH, generally above 4-5 ng/ml, due to the greater number of antral and preantral follicles that characterize this condition. These follicles, although abundant, often do not complete their development until ovulation, contributing to the fertility problems associated with the syndrome.

Although AMH is not currently included in the official Rotterdam diagnostic criteria for PCOS (which consider menstrual irregularities, clinical or biochemical signs of hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology), numerous scientific studies have proposed its incorporation because of its high correlation with the antral follicle count visible by ultrasound.

A significant advantage of AMH as a marker is its stability throughout the menstrual cycle, unlike other hormonal parameters that require measurements at specific times. This is particularly useful in patients with PCOS, who frequently have irregular cycles or amenorrhea, making it difficult to determine the optimal time for conventional hormonal tests.

For women with PCOS seeking treatments for Fertility, AMH levels also provide valuable information for predicting the response to ovulation-inducing medications and the risk of hyperstimulation, allowing specialists to adjust protocols to minimize complications and optimize results.

How is AMH used to preserve cancer fertility?

The AMH plays a crucial role in fertility preservation programs for cancer patients, functioning as a essential biomarker before, during and after potentially gonadotoxic treatments such as chemotherapy and pelvic radiation therapy. Its measurement provides objective information to develop personalized strategies that protect the future reproductive potential of these patients.

Before starting cancer treatments, determining baseline AMH levels helps to evaluate existing ovarian reserve and estimate the potential impact of planned therapy. This parameter, together with the patient's age and the specific type of cancer treatment, allows reproductive medicine specialists to advise on the most appropriate options for fertility preservation, such as the vitrification of eggs, embryos, or ovarian tissue.

During ovarian stimulation protocols for cryopreservation, AMH levels guide decisions about the type and dose of medication, making it possible to optimize the response even in situations that require starting stimulation at any time of the menstrual cycle (random-start protocols) so as not to delay cancer treatment.

After completing cancer therapy, serial AMH monitoring provides objective information about the degree of ovarian damage and the possible recovery of reproductive function. This information is invaluable for advising survivors about their options for achieving motherhood, whether through natural conception, using cryopreserved material or considering alternative options such as reception of donated eggs.

Multidisciplinary collaboration between oncologists and reproductive medicine specialists has significantly improved the chances of preserving fertility in cancer patients. AMH is an objective parameter that facilitates this communication, allowing informed decisions that balance immediate oncological needs with future reproductive desires.

Decisions

When is the AMH test recommended?

The AMH test is recommended in a variety of clinical situations, and is especially valuable for women seeking objective information about their current reproductive potential. The indications for its implementation vary depending on the individual circumstances and the personal objectives of each patient.

For women aged 25-30 and older who want to plan their reproductive future, the AMH measurement provides baseline information about their ovarian reserve, especially useful if they are considering delaying motherhood for professional or personal reasons. This early evaluation allows us to identify possible signs of premature decline in ovarian reserve that could influence decisions about the optimal time to seek pregnancy or consider egg preservation.

In patients with difficulty conceiving, AMH is part of the basic study of female fertility, providing valuable information to identify possible causes of infertility and to define appropriate therapeutic strategies. It is particularly recommended when there are risk factors for low ovarian reserve, such as a family history of early menopause, previous ovarian surgery or gonadotoxic treatments.

Before starting assisted reproduction treatments, AMH is essential to select the most appropriate ovarian stimulation protocol and establish realistic expectations about the expected response. Their determination is also recommended for candidates for programs of egg donation, as part of the suitability assessment.

In women with suspected polycystic ovary syndrome or amenorrhea of unknown origin, AMH provides valuable information for differential diagnosis. It is also recommended for patients diagnosed with cancer who require potentially gonadotoxic treatments, to evaluate urgency and fertility preservation options.

It is important to highlight that this test can be performed at any reproductive age when there is a clinical need to evaluate the ovarian reserve, being especially relevant after the age of 35, when the decline in this reserve tends to accelerate.

What other tests complement the AMH evaluation?

The full evaluation of female fertility requires a multidimensional approach that goes beyond the isolated measurement of AMH. To obtain a comprehensive view of reproductive potential, specialists recommend combining this test with other complementary studies that evaluate different aspects of ovarian and reproductive function.

The antral follicle count using transvaginal ultrasound is a direct complement to AMH, providing a real visualization of the follicles present in both ovaries. Ideally, this evaluation should be performed in the early follicular phase (days 2-5 of the menstrual cycle) and allows the hormonal information to be corroborated with anatomical findings, reinforcing the diagnostic accuracy of the ovarian reserve.

The determination of other hormones related to fertility, such as FSH, LH, estradiol and prolactin, preferably in the first days of the menstrual cycle, provides information on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and its proper functioning. Elevated FSH, in particular, may indicate a decrease in ovarian reserve even before AMH levels drop significantly.

For patients with suspected ovulatory dysfunction, the measurement of progesterone in the middle luteal phase (approximately 7 days after ovulation) confirms whether effective ovulation has occurred. In selected cases, it may also be relevant to evaluate thyroid hormones and androgens, especially in patients with menstrual irregularities or signs of hyperandrogenism.

The evaluation of reproductive anatomy using hysterosalpingography, sonohysterography or hysteroscopy makes it possible to rule out uterine or tubal anomalies that could affect fertility regardless of ovarian reserve. These tests are particularly important in patients with a history of inflammatory pelvic disease, endometriosis, or previous pelvic surgery.

In couples seeking to conceive, the analysis Male seminal is essential, since approximately 40% of fertility problems have a male component, an aspect that no female test can evaluate.

What decisions should I make if my AMH levels are low?

Receiving a result that indicates low levels of AMH may cause concern, but it's important to understand that there are multiple options and strategies available to address this situation. The most appropriate decisions will depend on several factors, including the patient's age, her immediate and future reproductive goals, and her personal context.

If you want to conceive in the short term, consult a specialist in Fertility without delay is the priority recommendation. Depending on the comprehensive evaluation, which will include other complementary tests, the specialist may suggest trying natural conception for a limited period of time (usually 3-6 months) with ovulation monitoring, or proceeding directly to assisted reproduction treatments to maximize the chances of success.

For those who do not contemplate an immediate pregnancy but want to preserve future options, the vitrification of eggs represents a valuable alternative. This technique allows the preservation of eggs with the corresponding quality at the time of extraction, creating a kind of “reproductive insurance” for the future. Importantly, with low levels of AMH, multiple stimulation cycles may be necessary to obtain an adequate number of eggs that offer a reasonable chance of future success.

In cases of severe low ovarian reserve, especially in older women, specialists may recommend directly considering options such as reception of donated eggs, which offers excellent success rates regardless of the recipient's ovarian reserve. Some clinics also offer programs for sharing eggs which can reduce associated costs.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, moderate exercise, avoiding smoking and maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D, can optimize remaining ovarian function. Although these measures will not increase AMH levels, they can help improve oocyte quality and response to fertility treatments.

Regardless of the decision made, specialized psychological support can be of great value in processing associated emotions and maintaining a balanced perspective during this process.

How do I share the AMH results with my partner?

Communicating the results of the AMH test to a partner requires sensitivity and clarity, especially when the values are not as expected. This conversation represents an opportunity to strengthen the communication and collaboration in shared reproductive decisions, setting realistic expectations and developing joint strategies.

Before starting the conversation, it is recommended that the woman personally process the information and its implications, ideally with the support of her specialist in Fertility. Clearly understanding what the results mean in their particular context will allow them to be transmitted more precisely, avoiding misinterpretations that could generate unnecessary anxiety.

When sharing the results, it is useful to focus first on the objective facts: what the test measures, what are the values obtained and what these values indicate according to professional medical interpretation. Using simple and direct language, avoiding excessively technical terms, facilitates mutual understanding and reduces the possibility of confusion.

It is important to contextualize the results within the full reproductive picture, remembering that AMH is just one of multiple factors that influence fertility. Emphasizing that there are a variety of medical options available to address virtually any outcome helps maintain a constructive and solution-oriented perspective.

The conversation must evolve towards shared decision-making about next steps. This may include discussing the possibility of carrying out additional tests, consulting with specialists in assisted reproduction, consider fertility preservation options or review the desired schedule for seeking pregnancy.

Recognizing and validating the emotions that may arise during this conversation is essential. Both the woman and her partner may experience worry, disappointment, or anxiety, especially if the results suggest potential difficulties. Normalizing these reactions and addressing them with empathy strengthens the bond and facilitates the process of adaptation and joint planning.

References

  1. La Marca, A., Sighinolfi, G., Radi, D., et al. (2010). Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) as a predictive marker in assisted reproductive technology (ART). Human Reproduction Update, 16 (2), 113-30. https://doi.org/10.1093/humupd/dmp036 Trusted Source.
  2. Capecce, E., Pelanda, M., Dicugno, M., et al. (2016). Anti-Müllerian hormone as a marker of ovarian function. Argentine Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, 53 (3), 106-113. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.raem.2016.07.004 Trusted Source.
  3. Broer, S.L., Broekmans, F.J., Laven, J.S., & Fauser, B.C. (2014). Anti-Müllerian hormone: ovarian reserve testing and its potential clinical implications. Human Reproduction Update, 20 (5), 688-701. https://doi.org/10.1093/humupd/dmu020 Trusted Source.

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Our Patients
Questions,
We answer
What is the AMH test for?

The AMH test is used to evaluate the number of eggs available in the ovaries, helping to plan fertility treatments or egg preservation.

When should I get an AMH test?

This test is recommended if you are considering pregnancy, want to know your ovarian reserve or are planning fertility treatments.

Is the procedure painful?

No, the AMH test is a simple blood test that is done quickly and without discomfort.

Can I get tested if I'm taking birth control?

Yes, although contraceptives may slightly influence AMH levels, the test still provides valuable information about ovarian reserve.

What if my AMH levels are low?

A low level of AMH indicates a lower ovarian reserve, which may suggest the need to act quickly if you want to conceive or preserve eggs for the future.

Can ovarian reserve be improved with treatments?

It is not possible to increase the number of eggs available, but there are treatments to optimize oocyte quality and increase the chances of pregnancy.

How long do the test results take?

Results are usually available within 3 to 5 business days.

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