What is AMH? Your Complete Guide
AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) is produced by small follicles in the ovaries and is the best single blood test to estimate a woman's remaining egg supply (ovarian reserve). Unlike other hormones, AMH stays relatively stable throughout the menstrual cycle.
💡Simply Explained
AMH is like a fuel gauge for a woman's egg bank. Every girl is born with all her eggs, and AMH tells us roughly how many are left. It doesn't tell us if the eggs are good — just how many remain in the tank.
⬆️What High AMH Means
Possible Causes
- PCOS (multiple small follicles produce excess AMH)
- Granulosa cell tumour of the ovary (rare)
- High ovarian reserve (young age)
Foods That Can Help
- No specific foods lower AMH — focus on managing PCOS if present
- Anti-inflammatory diet: turmeric, ginger, leafy greens
- Reduce refined carbs and sugar if PCOS diagnosed
- Maintain healthy weight — obesity worsens PCOS
⬇️What Low AMH Means
Possible Causes
- Natural ageing (most common cause)
- Premature ovarian insufficiency (before age 40)
- Previous ovarian surgery
- Chemotherapy or radiation treatment
- Endometriosis (can lower ovarian reserve)
- Smoking (accelerates egg depletion)
Foods That Can Help
- Antioxidant-rich foods: amla, berries, pomegranate, green tea
- CoQ10 (ubiquinol) — some evidence for supporting egg quality
- Vitamin D-rich foods: fortified milk, eggs, sunlight
- Omega-3 fatty acids: walnuts, flaxseeds
- DHEA-rich foods are limited — supplementation should only be under doctor guidance
🏃Lifestyle Actions
If Your AMH Is High
- Get evaluated for PCOS with ultrasound and other hormone tests
- If planning IVF, inform your fertility specialist about high AMH (hyperstimulation risk)
- Manage insulin resistance if PCOS confirmed
- Regular menstrual cycle tracking
If Your AMH Is Low
- If under 35 with low AMH and planning pregnancy, consult a fertility specialist promptly — time matters
- Consider fertility preservation (egg freezing) if not ready for pregnancy
- Stop smoking — it accelerates ovarian ageing
- Ensure vitamin D is adequate
- Focus on egg quality, not just quantity — lifestyle factors matter
🩺When to See a Doctor
High AMH
High AMH with PCOS symptoms should be evaluated by a gynaecologist, but is not urgent. Very high AMH (>10 ng/mL) in a non-PCOS context is rare and may warrant investigation for a granulosa cell tumour.
Low AMH
Low AMH in women under 35 should prompt a prompt (within 2-4 weeks) fertility specialist consultation if pregnancy is desired. At any age, low AMH with absent periods may indicate premature ovarian insufficiency — see a gynaecologist for hormone replacement to protect bones and heart.
🎯Did You Know?
AMH is unique among hormones because it can be tested on any day of the menstrual cycle and stays stable — unlike LH, FSH, and estradiol which fluctuate wildly. This makes it the most convenient fertility hormone to test!
❓Frequently Asked Questions
What is AMH?
AMH is like a fuel gauge for a woman's egg bank. Every girl is born with all her eggs, and AMH tells us roughly how many are left. It doesn't tell us if the eggs are good — just how many remain in the tank.
What causes high AMH?
PCOS (multiple small follicles produce excess AMH). Granulosa cell tumour of the ovary (rare). High ovarian reserve (young age).
What causes low AMH?
Natural ageing (most common cause). Premature ovarian insufficiency (before age 40). Previous ovarian surgery.
How can I check my AMH levels?
You can check your AMH levels with a routine blood test. Upload your lab report to ScanHealth for an instant, plain-language explanation.
Check Your AMH Results Instantly
Upload your blood test report and get a plain-language explanation of your AMH result — plus all other markers. Free.
Upload Your ReportThis guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Reference ranges may vary by lab. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.