If you’re trying to conceive or thinking about your future fertility, you’ve probably come across the term AMH, or Anti-Müllerian Hormone. Many women get concerned when they hear they have “low AMH levels” – and understandably so.
As a gynaecologist, I meet many patients who are confused or worried about what low AMH means, whether it affects their chances of getting pregnant, and what steps they can take next.
This article will help you understand what low AMH is, what causes it, and when to seek medical advice – all explained in simple terms.
What Is AMH?
AMH, or Anti-Müllerian Hormone, is a hormone produced by small sacs in your ovaries called follicles, which contain immature eggs. The AMH level gives us an idea of your “ovarian reserve”, which simply means how many eggs you have left.
Having a low AMH level doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t get pregnant, but it may indicate that your egg count is lower than average for your age.
What Does Low AMH Mean?
Low AMH means your ovaries have fewer eggs than expected. Every woman is born with a fixed number of eggs, and this number naturally declines with age. Some women experience this decline earlier or faster, and that’s when low AMH becomes a concern.
But here’s the important part: low AMH is not the same as infertility. Many women with low AMH go on to have healthy pregnancies — naturally or with assistance.
Symptoms of Low AMH
Low AMH usually doesn’t cause obvious symptoms. In fact, most women only find out they have low AMH after they begin fertility testing.
However, some signs may suggest a lower ovarian reserve, including:
- Irregular or skipped periods
- Shorter menstrual cycles (less than 24 days)
- Difficulty conceiving even after a year of trying
- Poor response to fertility treatments, such as low egg retrieval numbers in IVF
Still, many women with low AMH have no symptoms at all.
Causes of Low AMH
There are several reasons why someone may have low AMH. The most common ones include:
1. Age
- AMH levels naturally decline as you age, especially after 35.
2. Genetics
- Some women are born with fewer eggs. If your mother or sister had early menopause or fertility issues, your AMH levels might be lower too.
3. Medical Conditions
- Endometriosis, autoimmune disorders, or certain ovarian conditions can reduce your AMH levels.
- In rare cases, PCOS can cause abnormal AMH readings (usually high but occasionally low).
4. Previous Medical Treatments
- Chemotherapy, radiation, or surgeries involving the ovaries can affect your ovarian reserve.
5. Lifestyle Factors
- Smoking, poor diet, extreme stress, or being underweight can negatively impact AMH.
When Should You Get Your AMH Checked?
You might consider testing your AMH level if:
- You’ve been trying to conceive for over 6–12 months without success
- You’re planning to delay pregnancy and want to understand your fertility window
- You have irregular periods or early signs of menopause
- You’re considering fertility treatments like IVF or egg freezing
A simple blood test can measure your AMH level. It can be done on any day of your menstrual cycle.
What Can You Do If You Have Low AMH?
First, don’t panic. Low AMH doesn’t mean your fertility journey is over. Here’s what I often suggest to my patients:
- Talk to your gynaecologist or fertility specialist early.
- Consider fertility preservation, such as egg freezing, if you’re not planning a pregnancy right away.
- Explore lifestyle changes – eat well, reduce stress, avoid smoking, and maintain a healthy weight.
- In some cases, fertility treatments like IVF may be recommended.
Every woman is different, and treatment should always be customized to your situation and goals.
Final Words from Dr. Mamta Pattnayak
As a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology, I understand that concerns about fertility can feel overwhelming. But knowledge is power. Understanding your AMH levels can help you make informed decisions about your reproductive health.
If you suspect low AMH or are facing trouble conceiving, don’t wait too long. Early consultation can open doors to more options and better outcomes.
At FMRI Gurgaon, we’re here to support you at every step—with compassion, expert care, and the latest technology.
Need help understanding your fertility health?
📍 Book an appointment with me, Dr. Mamta Pattnayak, at FMRI Gurgaon.
https://my.fortishealthcare.com/web-appointment?docId=1190&hCode=1111
Let’s talk about your concerns, answer your questions, and build a plan that works for you.
Dr. Mamta Pattnayak is working as a Additional Director in Gynae and Obstetrics Dept. in Fortis Hospital, Gurgaon. Dr. Mamta attnayak is an MBBS graduate from S.C.B. Medical College, Cuttack and completed her MD (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) from Sambalpur University in 2003. With a rich experience of over years to her credit, Dr. Mamta has undergone training on advance lap Gynae by Ethicon. Done hand’s on Colposcopy course by RCOG. She is certified as a mentor in RCOG training course in Max Hospital Saket. Dr. Mamta has been associated with several organizations like Moolchand Hospital, New Delhi besides others. Her last assignment was at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Saket, New Delhi. Recently she has also started her private clinic at: Mother’s Touch HealthCare Centre: 395P, Sector 39 Rd, opposite to Medanta Hospital, near Gurudwara, Sector 39, Gurugram, Haryana 122004
