Low AMH Levels: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments
Written by
Arva Health Team
21-Nov-2024
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) plays a crucial role in female fertility by indicating the ovarian reserve - the number of eggs present in a woman's ovaries. Understanding AMH levels is essential for assessing reproductive health and chances of getting pregnant, particularly for women experiencing hormonal imbalance or reproductive disorders.
Understanding AMH Basics
AMH is produced by developing follicles in the ovaries and serves as a reliable marker of ovarian function. A low AMH level indicates that the ovaries are producing fewer preantral follicles, meaning fewer eggs are present in the ovary. This condition can affect the menstrual cycle and overall reproductive health.
Arva's Take: At Arva Health, we recommend getting your AMH levels tested as part of our comprehensive fertility assessment, which can be done conveniently through our home testing options. Our fertility experts provide personalized guidance based on your AMH results, helping you understand your reproductive health better. We believe in making fertility testing accessible and stress-free for every woman.
For a deeper understanding of AMH levels and their role in fertility, visit our comprehensive guide on AMH levels.
How AMH Affects Reproductive Health?
Hormone Levels and Fertility
AMH works in conjunction with other hormone levels, including thyroid hormones and male hormones, to maintain reproductive balance. When these hormones are imbalanced, it can lead to various reproductive disorders and affect fertility potential.
Diagnostic Tools
An AMH blood test is one of the most accurate ways to assess ovarian reserve. This test, along with other fertility assessments, helps doctors evaluate the health of reproductive organs, including fallopian tubes.
At Arva Health, we offer both in-clinic and home fertility testing options, including AMH blood tests. Our comprehensive fertility assessment helps identify potential reproductive disorders early, allowing for more effective treatment planning.
Primary Causes of Low AMH
Age-Related Decline
Age remains the most significant factor affecting levels of AMH. Women naturally experience a decrease in their ovarian reserve as they age, with levels typically declining more rapidly after age 35.
Genetic Factors
Inherited genetic disorders can lead to low AMH levels. If there's a family history of early menopause or low AMH, you may be genetically predisposed to this condition.
Medical Conditions and Health Issues
Several conditions can impact AMH levels:
Endometriosis
Autoimmune diseases
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Cancer treatments and chemotherapy
Thyroid disorders
Arva's Take:
Our fertility specialists at Arva Health provide detailed consultations to help you understand your AMH levels in context with other fertility factors. We create personalized care plans that consider your age, lifestyle, and medical history. If you're concerned about low AMH levels, our experts can guide you through various preservation options, including egg and embryo freezing.
Lifestyle Effects on AMH Levels
Diet and Nutrition
Poor dietary habits can affect AMH levels and contribute to weight gain, which may further impact fertility. A balanced diet rich in:
Leafy greens
Berries
Omega-3 fatty acids
Nuts and seeds
can support optimal ovarian function.
Physical Activity and Weight Management
While extreme exercise might affect hormonal balance, moderate physical activity helps maintain healthy hormone levels and manage weight-related fertility issues.
Smoking and Substance Use
Smoking has been consistently linked to lower AMH levels, with studies showing smokers may reach menopause up to four years earlier than non-smokers.
Symptoms Associated with Low AMH
Common Signs
Women with low AMH might experience:
Irregular periods
Vaginal dryness
Changes in menstrual flow
Difficulty conceiving
Treatment Options and Management
Natural Approaches
Lifestyle modifications and natural interventions can help optimize existing fertility potential:
Stress reduction techniques
Balanced nutrition
Regular exercise
Adequate sleep
Vitamin D supplementation
Learn about the AMH test cost in Bangalore to better understand the affordability of diagnosing low AMH levels.
Medical Interventions
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
IVF treatment often becomes a viable option for women with low AMH. Success rates vary, but many women achieve pregnancy through this method, even with lower ovarian reserve.
Hormone Therapy
Some women may benefit from hormone replacement therapy to address specific symptoms and improve overall reproductive health.
Environmental and Other Factors
Vitamin D Deficiency
Low vitamin D levels can contribute to decreased AMH levels. Correcting vitamin D deficiency may help improve both egg quantity and quality.
Stress Impact
Chronic stress can affect hormonal balance and potentially impact AMH levels. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and lifestyle modifications may help maintain hormonal health.
Medical Monitoring and Regular Check-ups
Regular Testing
Regular monitoring of AMH levels through blood tests helps track changes over time and adjust treatment plans accordingly. This is particularly important for women:
Planning pregnancy
Undergoing fertility treatment
With known reproductive disorders
Over 35 years of age
Treatment Options and Management at Arva Health
Our fertility experts offer comprehensive support for women with low AMH levels through:
Personalized fertility consultations
Advanced fertility testing options
Egg and embryo freezing services
Expert guidance on lifestyle modifications
Ongoing support and monitoring
Future Fertility Planning
Preservation Options
Women concerned about future fertility might consider:
Egg freezing
Embryo preservation
Alternative family planning methods
Whether you're planning for future pregnancy or concerned about your fertility, Arva Health provides comprehensive fertility testing and expert consultation services. Our team of specialists can help you understand your AMH levels and develop a personalized plan for your reproductive health journey.
Sources
FAQs
What are normal AMH levels?
Normal AMH levels range between 2.20 – 6.80 ng/mL, though this can vary by laboratory and age.
Can low AMH be improved?
While AMH levels cannot be significantly increased, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and addressing vitamin deficiencies may help optimize existing ovarian function.
Does BMI affect AMH levels?
Yes, studies show that higher BMI is associated with lower AMH levels, with a decrease of 0.015 to 0.2 ng/ml per unit increase in BMI.
How does oral contraception affect AMH?
Current oral contraceptive use can temporarily decrease AMH levels by 17% to 31.1%.
At what age do AMH levels typically start declining?
AMH levels begin declining more rapidly in the mid-30s, with significant decreases observed after age 35.
Remember that while low AMH presents challenges, it doesn't eliminate the possibility of pregnancy. Many women with low AMH levels can still conceive, especially with appropriate medical support and treatment options. Regular consultation with healthcare providers, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and staying informed about treatment options can help manage low AMH levels effectively.
Stay in the know
Receive email updates on stuff you’ll probably want to know about, including products, launches, and events.
Unsubscribe anytime.
