Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) Blood Test

AMH is produced by small ovarian follicles containing eggs. The level of AMH found in the blood is an  indicator of a woman's ovarian reserve and is replacing Day 3 FSH levels (though at MFC we still do one baseline Day 3 FSH). Low levels of AMH indicate reduced ovarian reserve while high levels can be diagnostic of polycystic ovaries. AMH levels decline with female age so results must be interpreted in line with age. As the level of AMH found in the blood does not fluctuate throughout the month, it can be measured on any day of the menstrual cycle.

AMH is a relatively new test and its place in patient management is not yet entirely clear. It is a very useful adjunct for women having IVF as it helps decide on the urgency of treatment and on the optimal dose of stimulation drugs. We now request AMH as a routine blood test for patients as part of our fertility work-up. The test is arranged at MFC.

In those patients not yet trying to conceive its role and significance is less clear. It is very emotive and a low result causes a lot of stress. Therefore it is probably best to refer those patients to Merrion Fertility Clinic where they will have the test and our advice/counselling.