Anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) test

Starting your fertility journey can seem daunting. With so many tests and the wait for your results, it can sometimes feel slightly overwhelming.

However, here at BCRM, we want you to feel empowered at every step. That’s why we strive to provide you with the information you need to start your fertility pathway with confidence.

In this guide, we focus on the anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) blood test in particular, highlighting what it is, how it works and what your results can mean.

What is the anti-müllerian hormone?

The anti-müllerian hormone is made in men’s testicles and women’s ovaries. In men, their AMH levels drop drastically after puberty as it helps their male organs to grow. However, it's vital for women trying to conceive; your AMH can help determine the number of eggs you have left — your ovarian reserve.

The number of eggs in your ovaries naturally declines as you age, so it’s normal for your AMH levels to decrease, too. However, if they become too low too soon, this could indicate a problem with your fertility.

Therefore, having an AMH test is essential for women on their fertility journey as it provides a quick snapshot of their reproductive health.

What is an AMH blood test?

An AMH blood test measures how much anti-müllerian hormone is in your blood. Higher levels can indicate a higher ovarian reserve, whereas lower levels can suggest a lower one.

However, we recommend pausing any hormonal contraception for three to six months before having a AMH blood test. This is because hormonal contraception can affect your results and provide a false reading.

Why might I need an AMH blood test?

An AMH test might be right for you if you are:

• Considering trying for a baby and want to check your fertility

• Finding it difficult to conceive naturally

• Potentially going through premature menopause (before 40) and having irregular periods

An AMH test will give you an idea of your ovarian reserve and determine whether it could hinder your fertility.

How does an AMH fertility test work?

In an AMH blood test, a nurse will wrap a tight band around your upper arm to help your vein stand out. Next, they’ll insert a needle into your vein before attaching it to a thin tube that directs blood into a sterile container.

Once your fertility specialist has collected enough blood, they’ll send it to a laboratory to test. During testing, the lab will analyse your blood sample and measure your levels of anti-müllerian hormone.

What can an AMH test show me?

An AMH test can show how many eggs you have remaining in your ovaries and if your ovaries are ageing prematurely.

The test may also show how well you might respond to the follicle-stimulating medication provided during fertility treatments like in vitro fertilisation (IVF). These medications help to promote ovulation and stimulate your follicles (sacs where the eggs grow) to mature more than one egg at a time.

Remember that an AMH blood test can reveal your ovarian reserve, but it cannot predict the success of fertility treatments or when you’ll go through menopause. Other factors can affect your fertility, so fertility specialists often combine AMH tests with other fertility tests to get a clearer picture of your unique needs.

What do my AMH test results mean?

The average AMH levels vary in women depending on their age. The younger you are, the higher your levels may be. This is because you should have more eggs in your ovaries as you will have ovulated fewer times.

AMH usually reaches its peak around 25 before naturally beginning to decline.

The average AMH level for woman guided by age:

Levels under 4.9 pmol/L could indicate a low or reduced ovarian reserve.

Although low levels can indicate fertility problems, levels that are too high can also mean that something isn’t quite right and you may need further tests. Your fertility specialist may recommend a transvaginal ultrasound which can check for conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) (when you have too many follicles growing on your ovaries and ovulation is interrupted). As a result, it may become harder for you to conceive naturally and you might need fertility treatments to help.

When you get your results, your fertility specialist will discuss them with you and explain what they mean. They’ll also outline your next steps and any further tests you might need to investigate your fertility further.

Which fertility treatments might be recommended after an AMH test?

Fertility specialists can use your AMH levels to determine which fertility treatment might suit you. Based on your AMH levels, your specialist might recommend further tests or try a specific fertility treatment.

IVF is the most commonly recommended fertility treatment for women with low AMH levels. This involves fertilising an egg with sperm in a laboratory instead of in your body.

However, each person is different and your fertility specialist will work closely with you to determine which treatment is right for you.

How much does an AMH blood test cost?

AMH blood tests are not typically available on the NHS, so you may have to pay for them. At BCRM, we’re committed to making fertility tests and treatment accessible to those who need it. To learn more about how much an AMH blood test costs, contact our friendly team, who will be happy to provide you with more information.

You can also view our price list to see how much an AMH blood test may cost when combined with our other fertility tests.

Book your AMH test with the Bristol Centre for Reproductive Medicine

Having an AMH blood test with us can give you insight into your fertility. We’ll ensure you completely understand your results and are aware of what fertility treatments might suit your needs.

If you’re considering an AMH test or your doctor has recommended one, contact BCRM today to discover our expert-led fertility services.