What is Low AMH ? Causes and Symptoms- Lotus IVF Center Bareilly

6/4/2024 7:23:00 AM   Lotus IVF Team   

Introduction of AMH:

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a crucial protein hormone produced by the ovaries in women and the testes in men. In women, it serves as a key indicator of ovarian reserve, helping assess fertility and predict menopause onset. Elevated AMH levels can indicate conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In men, AMH is essential for fetal development and testicular function.

Dr. Shruti Ghate our expert consultant provides personalized guidance in assisted reproductive technologies, ensuring you receive the best care tailored to your needs. Trust our team to support you through every step of your journey to parenthood.

What is Low AMH?

Low levels of Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) can be a significant indicator of a woman’s ovarian reserve, which refers to the quantity and quality of eggs remaining in the ovaries. AMH levels naturally decline with age, but when levels are lower than expected for a woman’s age, it can raise concerns about fertility and overall reproductive health.

Causes of Low AMH: Several factors can contribute to low AMH levels.

1. Age: As women age, particularly after their mid-30s, AMH levels typically decline, reflecting a decrease in ovarian reserve.
2. Poly-cysticOvary Syndrome (PCOS): While PCOS is often associated with high AMH levels, some women with this condition may still experience low levels due to hormonal imbalances.
3. Genetic Factors: Certain genetic conditions, such as Turner syndrome or ovarian genesis, can lead to reduced AMH production.
4. Previous Ovarian Surgery: Surgeries that involve the ovaries can impact their function and decrease AMH levels.
5. Endometriosis: This condition can affect ovarian function and may lead to lower AMH levels in some women.

Symptoms of Low AMH Levels:

Low levels of Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) can significantly impact a woman’s reproductive health, often leading to various symptoms and concerns. Recognizing these symptoms helps women address fertility concerns and seek expert advice from Dr. Shruti Ghate for personalized care.

1. Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Women with low AMH levels may experience irregular menstrual cycles, including variations in cycle length or missed periods. This irregularity can indicate underlying hormonal imbalances affecting ovarian function.
2. Difficulty Conceiving: One of the most common signs of low AMH is difficulty in conceiving. Low AMH levels often correlate with diminished ovarian reserve, making it harder to achieve pregnancy naturally. Couples trying to conceive for an extended period without success should consider getting their AMH levels tested.
3. Menopause Symptoms: Low AMH levels can signal that a woman is approaching menopause sooner than expected. Symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings may occur as ovarian function declines, even in women in their 30s or early 40s.
4. Fertility Treatment Challenges: Women with low AMH levels may face challenges during fertility treatments, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). Lower egg yields during ovarian stimulation can lead to fewer embryos available for transfer, impacting the chances of successful treatment.
5. Increased Risk of Ovarian Reserve Issues: Low AMH can be associated with conditions like diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), which can lead to earlier ovarian aging and potentially affect overall fertility health.
6. Unexplained Infertility: In some cases, women may experience unexplained infertility despite having regular menstrual cycles and no obvious health issues. Low AMH levels may be a hidden factor contributing to infertility in such situations.
7. Hormonal Imbalances: Low AMH levels may coincide with other hormonal imbalances, leading to symptoms such as weight gain, acne, or excessive hair growth, particularly in women with conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

How Low AMH Affects Fertility

• Reduced Ovarian Reserve: Low AMH levels signal a decline in the number of eggs in the ovaries. This can make natural conception more difficult, as the likelihood of ovulating a healthy egg decreases over time.
• Lower Egg Quality: Not only does low AMH suggest fewer eggs, but it may also indicate concerns about egg quality. Poor egg quality can result in lower fertilization rates and a higher risk of miscarriage or chromosomal abnormalities in embryos.
• Challenges with Fertility Treatments: Women with low AMH often face difficulties during assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). They may respond less effectively to ovarian stimulation, leading to fewer eggs retrieved during the procedure, which limits the number of viable embryos.
• Early Ovarian Aging: Low AMH can be a sign of early ovarian aging, potentially resulting in menopausal symptoms at a younger age, further complicating family planning options.
• Associated Health Conditions: Low AMH levels are often linked to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, which can also impact fertility and require specialized treatment approaches.

Options If You Have Low AMH Levels: If diagnosed with low Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels, consider these options:

• Get Evaluated: Undergo a comprehensive fertility assessment.
• Make Lifestyle Changes: Focus on a healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, and exercise regularly.
• Fertility Medications: Discuss options like Clomiphene Citrate or gonadotropins to stimulate ovulation.
• Consider IVF: Assisted reproductive technologies can improve the chances of conception.
• Egg Freezing: Preserve your eggs for future use if not ready to conceive now.
• Explore Donor Eggs: This option can increase pregnancy chances if the ovarian reserve is low.
• Seek Support: Join support groups or seek counseling for emotional guidance.
• Regular Monitoring: Stay in touch with your healthcare provider to track your reproductive health.

What to Expect from a Doctor If You Have Low AMH Levels

If you have low AMH levels, expect your doctor to evaluate your reproductive health through additional tests and ultrasounds. They will explain the implications for your fertility and discuss treatment options, such as lifestyle changes, fertility medications, or IVF. Your doctor will help create a personalized fertility plan and may offer emotional support or referrals to counseling. Regular follow-ups are essential for effective management of your fertility journey.

The treatment for low AMH levels?

IVF can make optimal use of the limited eggs left in the ovaries. If a woman has abnormally high FSH levels and low AMH levels, it indicates that her ovaries are not producing the right quantity or quality of eggs. Dr. Shruti Ghate specializes in guiding patients through these challenges with expert care.