Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) Test

The Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) test is a blood test used to measure the level of AMH in a woman's blood. AMH is a hormone produced by the ovaries, and its levels can provide information about ovarian function and fertility.

What is AMH?

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is a protein hormone produced by the granulosa cells in small follicles in the ovaries. It plays a crucial role in regulating follicular development and ovulation. AMH levels can indicate the number of antral follicles in the ovaries, which are small follicles that contain immature eggs.

Purpose of the Test

The AMH test is used for several purposes:

• Fertility assessment: To evaluate ovarian reserve and predict fertility potential in women.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) diagnosis: Elevated AMH levels can be an indicator of PCOS, a hormonal disorder that affects ovulation and fertility.
• Menopause prediction: To estimate the time to menopause and assess ovarian function in women approaching menopause.
• Fertility preservation: To evaluate ovarian reserve before chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery that may affect ovarian function.

How is the Test Performed?

The AMH test involves a simple blood draw from a vein in the arm. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The test can be performed at any time during the menstrual cycle, and results are usually available within a few days.

Interpretation of Results

AMH levels are typically measured in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL) or nanograms per liter (ng/L). The normal range for AMH varies depending on age and laboratory:

• Women under 35 years: 1.0-4.0 ng/mL (10-40 pmol/L)
• Women between 35-40 years: 0.5-3.0 ng/mL (5-30 pmol/L)
• Women over 40 years: 0.2-1.5 ng/mL (2-15 pmol/L)

Elevated AMH levels may indicate:

• PCOS or other ovarian disorders
• Premature ovarian failure
• Ovarian tumors or cysts

Low AMH levels may indicate:

• Ddiminished ovarian reserve
• Menopause or perimenopause
• Ovarian dysfunction or failure

Limitations and Considerations

The AMH test has some limitations and considerations:

• Variability in results: AMH levels can fluctuate between cycles and even within the same cycle.
• Laboratory variability: Different laboratories may use different assays, which can affect result interpretation.
• Not a definitive test: The AMH test is not a definitive predictor of fertility or ovarian function. Other factors, such as egg quality and uterine health, also play important roles in fertility.

The AMH test should be used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools, such as ultrasound and medical history, to provide a comprehensive assessment of ovarian function and fertility potential.