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Sex hormones

AMH

Also known as:

Anti-Müllerian hormone, ovarian reserve test

A marker of how many small follicles remain. Useful for IVF planning and PCOS, not a fertility verdict.

Written and reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD · Last reviewed

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ANIMATED EXPLAINER · AMH
STEP 1 OF 4
Follicle pool
Each ovary holds a reserve of small follicles that shrinks with age.

What it measures

AMH is made by small growing follicles, so it tracks the size of the remaining follicle pool. It declines steadily with age.

When it helps

• Planning IVF and predicting response to ovarian stimulation

• Supporting a PCOS diagnosis in adults, where the 2023 guideline accepts it in place of ultrasound

• Counseling before treatments that can damage the ovaries

What it can't tell you

AMH does not predict natural fertility well. In a prospective study of women trying to conceive, low AMH was not linked to a lower chance of pregnancy. It also cannot pinpoint when menopause will arrive.

Good to know

AMH can be measured on any cycle day. Hormonal contraception may lower it modestly, and levels vary between assays.

Educational content only, written and reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD. It does not replace individual medical advice. For sudden chest pain, trouble breathing or stroke symptoms, call 911.

AT A GLANCE

Test type

Sex hormones

Also known as

Anti-Müllerian hormone, ovarian reserve test

Reviewed by

Farhan Tahir, MD

Questions about your own care?

Dr. Tahir’s team offers consults through Youthful Medicine.

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