Low AMH: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis – Everything You Need to Know

Low AMH: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis – Everything You Need to Know

Low AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) is a key indicator of a woman’s ovarian reserve and plays a crucial role in fertility. Women facing difficulties conceiving often discover low AMH as a contributing factor. In this article, we explore the causes, symptoms, and diagnostic approaches to low AMH in detail.

What is Low AMH? :

AMH is a hormone produced by small ovarian follicles that reflects the number of eggs a woman has left (ovarian reserve). Low AMH indicates reduced egg count and quality, making it harder to conceive.

Causes of Low AMH :

Understanding the reasons behind low AMH can help tailor treatments. Some common causes include:

1. Aging and Natural Decline
   • Women are born with a finite number of eggs, which decreases over time. AMH levels drop significantly after the age of 35.
2. Lifestyle Choices
   • Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and high stress levels can negatively impact ovarian health.
3. Medical Conditions
   • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): While AMH is often high in PCOS, prolonged hormonal imbalance can reduce ovarian function.
   • Endometriosis: Scar tissue from endometriosis can damage the ovaries and reduce egg count.
4. Genetic Predisposition
   • Women with a family history of early menopause or ovarian insufficiency may have a higher risk of low AMH.
5. Environmental Factors
   • Exposure to pollutants, toxins, and pesticides can impair ovarian reserve over time.
6. Medical Treatments
   • Chemotherapy, radiation, or surgeries involving the ovaries can significantly reduce AMH levels.

Symptoms of Low AMH :

Low AMH itself is asymptomatic but can manifest through the following signs:

• Difficulty Conceiving: Struggling to conceive naturally is often the first noticeable symptom.
• Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Hormonal imbalances may lead to irregular or skipped periods.
• Signs of Early Menopause: Hot flashes, mood swings, and night sweats may occur earlier than expected.
• Poor Response to Fertility Treatments: Women with low AMH may not respond well to ovarian stimulation during IVF.

Diagnosis of Low AMH :

Timely diagnosis is essential for effective intervention. Here are the most reliable methods:

1. AMH Blood Test
   • This simple test measures AMH levels to determine ovarian reserve. Values below 1.0 ng/mL are typically considered low.
2. Antral Follicle Count (AFC)
   • Conducted via ultrasound, this test counts the visible follicles in the ovaries, providing a clearer picture of fertility potential.
3. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test
   • High levels of FSH on day 2 or 3 of the menstrual cycle indicate diminished ovarian reserve.
4. Estradiol Levels
   • Elevated estradiol levels during the early menstrual phase can signal compromised ovarian function.
5. Comprehensive Fertility Assessment
   • A detailed evaluation of medical history, lifestyle, and family background helps pinpoint underlying causes.

Take away message :

Low AMH doesn’t mean the end of fertility. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and diagnostic methods is the first step toward effective treatment. Whether through medical interventions or holistic approaches like Ayurveda, women with low AMH can explore various options to boost their fertility and achieve their dream of parenthood. Early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and tailored therapies are the keys to success.

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