Low AMH levels – Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Reduced levels of anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) are another major worry among most women, particularly those who are wishing to get pregnant. AMH is a protein hormone synthesised by the granulosa cells in the ovarian follicles; it is used for evaluating a woman's ovarian reserve or the number of viable oocytes remaining in the ovarian pool. Since AMH is an important biomarker in a woman’s fertility, it is crucial for any woman who is experiencing fertility issues to have prior knowledge of low AMH levels, their causes and symptoms of low AMH as well as the available treatments.

What is a Low AMH Level?

Low AMH levels signify a lower number of preantral follicles in the ovaries and hence contribute to low ovarian reserve. Although AMH reduces as age advances, the low levels at a young age reflect fertility problems or even premature ovarian failure. The study conducted in India showed that 46% of women in the age group of 20–40 years had a low AMH level, and this shows that younger women are more likely to have a low AMH level. 

 The normal range for AMH levels varies by age. 

• Under 24 months: 4. 7 ng/mL 
• 24 months–12 years: 8.8 ng/mL 
• 13–45 years: 0.9–9.5 ng/mL 
• Over 45 years: 1. 0 ng/mL  

The values below these levels are indicative of low AMH levels, and it could make conception processes difficult.  

Causes of Low AMH Levels

Several factors contribute to low AMH levels:

• Age: With age, the number of eggs that a woman has, and therefore the concentration of AMH, is expected to be lower. 
• Genetic Factors: One understands that they are at risk of similar conditions if they have a family history of a low absolute number of growing immature ovarian follicles per   of ovarian tissue known as AMH. 
• Medical Conditions: Conditions that impact ovarian function are known to affect AMH levels, such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).  

• Lifestyle Choices: These include poor diet, obesity, smoking, and high stress levels because they are known to have an adverse effect on AMH levels. 
• Cancer Treatments: Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy affect the ovarian follicles, which in turn leads to low levels of AMH. 

What are the symptoms of Low AMH?

Low AMH levels do not typically present specific symptoms; however, certain symptoms of low AMH may indicate underlying fertility issues:

• Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Any shift in the length of the cycle, or absence of menstruation altogether is a sign of hormonal fluctuation. 
• Short Menstrual Cycles: Cycles such that their length is below 21 days were viceless for reduced ovarian reserve. 
• Premature Menopause Symptoms: Flu-like symptoms such as hot flashes or night sweats and mood changes may be experienced in the event that low AMH is due to early menopause. 

Although these symptoms of low AMH do not necessarily indicate low AMH, they should be investigated through blood tests or a visit to a fertility doctor.

What is the Best Fertility Treatment for Low AMH?

For women with low AMH levels seeking to conceive, various treatment options are available: 

• In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): IVF is normally advised to women with low AMH since it involves the harvesting of eggs from the ovaries directly. This method helps in the utilisation of available eggs, hence raising the probabilities of having successful fertilisation. 
• IVF with Donor Eggs: For women who have little or no eggs, the use of donor eggs can be of major benefit in improving chances of pregnancy. This option makes it possible to place high-quality eggs into the uterus of the recipient. 
• Lifestyle Modifications: It is therefore prudent to recommend that regular exercises, good nutrition that includes vitamins and minerals, as well as proper stress control all go a long way in enhancing one’s reproductive health. 

Maaeri specialises in fertility treatments, providing them depending on each client’s case. As a team of skilled professionals, Maaeri offers an individual approach for successful conception with the help of IVF or other methods of reproductive medicine. 

FAQs 

Can you still get pregnant with low AMH? 

It is however important to understand that conception is still very possible even with low AMH levels. The below AMH means that the number of mature eggs is low; however, some women have normal menstrual cycles and egg release. However, they might experience a challenge when conceiving and might need fertility treatment done on them.  

How many eggs are left with low AMH?  

Lower AMH levels indicate that there are fewer eggs in the woman’s ovary or the ovarian reserve. The number differs from one man to another; however, it is recommended that an AMH level of less than 1. It also means the egg supply is very low when the count is below 0. ng/mL. Women must go to their doctors for a risk assessment that will depend on each woman’s situation.