What is an Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) test?
AMH levels are different in males and females. The levels of this hormone will vary with age and can also be a marker for various reproductive diseases.
AMH in males is made by the testicles, the same glands that make sperm and other male hormones. In females, AMH is made by the ovaries, the glands that make eggs and other female hormones.
As babies develop in the womb the Anti-Müllerian Hormone, along with the X and Y Chromosomes, helps to determine the development of either male or female genitalia and reproductive organs.
AMH is a very useful indicator of the number of eggs a woman still has in her ovaries and is therefore a means for determining whether the woman has sufficient eggs to continue reproduction. The test for AMH is also sometimes called an Ovarian Reserve test, and levels of AMH are high in women with large reserves of eggs, but levels of AMH fall as the egg supply is reduced until the woman reaches the menopause, when AMH levels are zero and no further eggs are available for reproduction. Whilst and AMH test can tell you your ovarian reserve, it cannot tell you about the health of your eggs.
Why should I have an Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) test?
AMH is often measured in women who are having difficulty getting pregnant. The levels of AMH will help determine the correct dosage of fertility medicines that encourage the release of eggs. Low levels of AMH generally will suggest that higher doses are required, whereas higher levels of AMH suggest a lower dose of medication will be sufficient.
AMH is also measured in women with the following conditions:
- No menstrual periods
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Excess hair growth on face, chest, stomach or thighs
- Hair loss
- Dark skin patches
- Weight gain
Anti-Müllerian Hormone may also be checked in male babies with undescended testicles, to determine whether the testicles are functioning correctly but just not in their correct position. Normal levels of AMH indicate normal testicles whereas low levels of AMH suggest other conditions that will require further specialist testing.
What happens if my AMH test results are outside the normal range?
If your Anti-Müllerian Hormone test results are outside the normal range, you will be referred to a doctor for further assessment and treatment. The specific actions will depend on your gender, your stage of life and what you are trying to achieve. Hormones are complex chemicals that can have a wide range of effects on the body. Imbalances in your hormone levels will require specialist attention to address.
How can I book my Anti-Müllerian Hormone test?
To book your test, please click "Get Started" or call Better2Know on the number above. A member of our dedicated Patient Services team will be available to answer any questions and organise your booking. Better2Know provides a wide range of screens and health tests across the country. For your convenience, our welcoming and experienced team are available 24/7.
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