Introduction
AMH indicates the estimated ‘stock’ of eggs remaining in the ovaries. This article clarifies what AMH means
its relationship with age
how to interpret the numbers and their limits
and what to do after testing.
1. What Is AMH?
- AMH is secreted by follicles and reflects ovarian reserve (an estimate of remaining eggs).
- It indicates ‘quantity,’ not ‘quality’ (quality is strongly age-related).
- Analogy: AMH is freezer capacity (quantity); quality depends on age and other factors.
2. AMH and Age (Typical Ranges)
| Age | Avg. AMH (ng/mL) | Ovarian Reserve (Typical) |
|---|---|---|
| 25 | 4.0–5.0 | High |
| 30 | 3.0–4.0 | Good |
| 35 | 2.0–3.0 | Slight decline |
| 40 | 1.0–1.5 | Declining |
| 45 | <0.5 | Near perimenopause |
Indicative ranges only; individual variation is large (2–3× differences at the same age are common).
3. Common Misconceptions
- Low AMH ≠ impossible to conceive (few eggs can still include high-quality ones).
- High AMH ≠ guaranteed (PCOS and ovulation issues may coexist).
- AMH isn’t fixed for life (it changes over years; methods/health can affect readings).
4. Benefits of Knowing Your AMH
- Gives concrete sense of timing (a clearer ‘current position’ than age alone).
- Enables practical planning (cycles, target freeze counts, prioritization).
- Quantifies deferral risks and supports informed, confident choices.
5. Testing: Timing and Method
- Blood test can be done regardless of cycle day.
- Results typically in 2–5 days.
- More clinics now include AMH in routine checkups.
6. After Testing: Act Now or Wait?
| AMH | Suggested Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| >= 3.0 | Explore & plan | Time cushion; a good point to consider freezing. |
| 1.5–3.0 | Plan | Map a concrete plan within ~12 months. |
| <= 1.0 | Act | Prioritize early retrieval/freezing. |
These are guides; decide with your physician, factoring in age, history, sperm and uterine factors.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The fewer eggs available, the more valuable it is to secure what you have now. Eggs frozen at younger ages correlate with better outcomes later.
If >6.0, PCOS is possible; evaluate ovulation. With planning, high AMH itself isn’t necessarily problematic.
A common window is 28–35, but the best time is when you start wondering. Testing ‘too early’ rarely harms.
Re-testing is helpful. Checking every 1–2 years tracks change and supports decisions.
8. Column: Reframing the Number
AMH is not a number that narrows your future; it’s information that expands choices. Use it to turn ‘someday’ into ‘start now.’
Summary
- Treat AMH as a quantity marker and age as a proxy for quality—separate axes.
- The earlier you know, the more freedom and feasibility in planning.
- Never decide on AMH alone; co-design a plan with your clinician considering all factors.