So, you’ve probably heard the term “AMH” being thrown around a lot, especially on TikTok and on various podcasts if you’ve been researching topics on egg freezing, egg donation, or IVF. But what exactly is AMH, and why is it so important when it comes to understanding a woman’s ovarian reserve?

Well, buckle up because in this blog post, I will break it all down for you. Whether you’re considering egg freezing, curious about your fertility, or just eager to learn more about your body, I got you covered. Read all about my egg freezing journey at 28 here.

This post is going to dive into what AMH levels actually mean and if it’s possible to increase your AMH.

What is AMH?

Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) is a biomarker that is widely used to evaluate ovarian reserve, providing valuable information about a woman’s reproductive capacity. Studies have shown that there is a significant relationship between AMH levels and the quantity of remaining oocytes (eggs) a woman has, which makes it a valuable tool in assessing fertility.

AMH is especially useful in determining the best course of action for women seeking fertility treatments such as egg freezing and IVF, as it can help predict their response to ovarian stimulation. Sometimes a lower AMH level means you may have to do more than one egg freezing or IVF cycle to get enough eggs.

HOWEVER, there are limitations of AMH, and is NOT the sole predictor of future pregnancy. While AMH levels can provide insight into a woman’s ovarian reserve, they do not account for other factors such as age and overall health condition that can also impact fertility.

How to check your AMH

If you’re thinking about checking your AMH levels, there are a couple of different options available to you. The most common way to check your AMH level is through a simple blood test.

This test can be done at your doctor’s office or at a lab, and it’s a quick and easy way to get a snapshot of your ovarian reserve.

However, if you’re looking for a more modern and convenient option, there are at-home testing kits available, like Modern Fertility and Everlywell. These tests also measure your AMH levels, but they allow you to do it from the comfort of your own home. You simply collect a small sample of blood or saliva and send it off to the lab for analysis.

According to a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, at-home AMH tests like Modern Fertility and Everlywell have been shown to be just as accurate as traditional blood tests when it comes to measuring AMH levels.

@modernfertility Even if you're a few years out from trying for kids, this at-home test gives you a baseline on your fertility so you can keep tabs on how it's changing over time. (And yes, you can still take the test if you're on birth control!) Click the link in our bio to learn more. #fertilityhealth #ttc ♬ original sound – Modern Fertility

Is an AMH test covered by insurance?

Yep! Most health insurance plans should cover the cost of an AMH test. You can ask your gynecologist for this test during your annual well-woman exam and it can be part of your normal blood panel.

It’s a super important part of fertility testing, so insurance companies know it’s a necessary expense. Just be sure to check with your insurance provider to confirm the details.

What is the typical AMH range?

In the U.S., the typical AMH range for women in their reproductive years is usually between 1.0 to 4.0 nanograms per milliliter (ng/ml). Now, here’s the kicker – the AMH levels are usually, but not always, related to age.

For women in their 20s and early 30s, higher AMH levels are usually expected, as it indicates a higher ovarian reserve and better fertility potential. This is one reason why I really encourage women to freeze their eggs in their late 20s if possible.

As women age, especially after the age of 35, it’s normal for AMH levels to decrease as ovarian reserve naturally declines and fertility becomes more challenging. My reproductive endocrinologist told me they have started seeing AMH start to decline slightly as early as 32.

Remember though, every person’s body is different, and AMH levels can vary regardless of age. And remember again, you can have a low AMH of under 1.0 and still get pregnant naturally.

Causes of low AMH levels

As said above, one of the most common causes of low AMH levels in women is age.

Another cause can be certain medical conditions, like endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). These conditions can affect the quality and quantity of a woman’s eggs, leading to lower AMH levels. For women with PCOS they sometimes have really high AMH levels but their egg quality may not be the best.

Stress can also play a role in low AMH levels. High levels of stress can impact hormone production, which in turn can affect AMH levels.

Exposure to certain environmental toxins and chemicals can also negatively impact a woman’s ovarian reserve and result in low AMH levels.

Studies have shown that exposure to pesticides, phthalates, air pollution, and heavy metals can lower AMH levels in women.

Lastly, a history of certain medical treatments, like chemotherapy or radiation therapy, can also cause low AMH levels. These treatments can damage the ovaries and impact egg production.

Birth control and AMH

The type of birth control you are on may impact your AMH levels when you take the test.

According to a study conducted in 2021, women who used continuous combined contraceptives, regardless of the method of administration, had significantly lower AMH levels.

It is recommended to discontinue the use of birth control pills a few months prior to egg freezing. AMH levels DO rebound after stopping birth control.

Can AMH levels fluctuate?

AMH levels can definitely fluctuate! Factors like smoking, extreme weight changes, and even certain medical conditions can all play a role in AMH level fluctuations.

Also, it’s important to keep in mind that AMH levels can vary from cycle to cycle, so a single measurement may not always reflect the full picture.

How to increase AMH levels naturally?

Can AMH levels rise naturally?

Research has shown that certain lifestyle factors and health habits can actually help increase AMH levels in women. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can all contribute to higher AMH levels.

Can fertility ayurveda help increase AMH levels?

The practice of fertility Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to improving fertility by addressing the mind, body, and spirit. Ayurveda believes in bringing balance to your entire being to improve overall health and wellness, which in turn can boost fertility.

Although there is no definitive evidence linking fertility ayurveda to an increase in AMH levels, it can potentially enhance reproductive health and promote hormone balance.

By incorporating Ayurvedic practices such as yoga, meditation, dietary changes, and herbal supplements, you can promote a healthier reproductive system.

It’s important to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner to create a personalized plan that addresses your specific fertility concerns.

Foods to increase AMH levels

There are certain foods that can support healthy ovarian function and potentially increase AMH levels.

Foods high in antioxidants like berries, nuts, and leafy greens can help support egg health. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseeds are also beneficial for reproductive health. Plus, incorporating plenty of protein, whole grains, and good fats into your diet can help support hormone balance, which can also have a positive effect on AMH levels.

While there is no guarantee that consuming these foods will increase your AMH levels, it may be worth considering as a potential option.

Fertility acupressure and acupuncture

Fertility acupressure and acupuncture are natural methods that some women are turning to when going through fertility treatments.

Acupressure involves applying pressure to specific points on the body, while acupuncture uses tiny needles to stimulate these points. Both practices aim to improve overall wellness and balance in the body, which can have a positive impact on fertility.

Acupuncture may improve ovarian function and increase AMF levels, although research is still ongoing. Please consult a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.

Overall, many women find that fertility acupressure and acupuncture not only support their reproductive health but also provide a sense of relaxation and well-being during what can be a stressful time.

Is pregnancy possible with low AMH?

The good news is having a low AMH doesn’t mean you can’t get pregnant naturally.

AMH levels are just one of many factors that can impact fertility, and plenty of women with low AMH levels are still able to conceive without any issues.

A 2020 study published in the Journal of Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology found that the relationship between AMH levels and fertility isn’t as straightforward as once believed, and that low AMH levels don’t always mean decreased fertility.

I hope you found this post informative. I know so many women who feel down, disappointed, or even ashamed if their AMH level is lower than they wanted. There’s absolutely no need to feel this way!

Do what you can and let the universe (and your fertility team) handle the rest.

Browse my other posts about egg freezing and fertility. Shoot me a message on IG @girlwithdrive if you have any egg freezing-related specific questions.