Table of Contents
- Is it possible to increase AMH through dietary and lifestyle changes?
- AMH
- How and when is AMH Tested in the fertility clinic?
- What do your AMH Results mean?
- The Role of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) with AMH
- Limitations of AMH
- What Causes Low AMH Levels?
- Can IVF Work with Low AMH Levels?
- How to Increase AMH Levels
- AMH and Fertility and what can we do about it
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Is it possible to increase AMH through dietary and lifestyle changes?
Have you ever wondered if you could check your fertility with a simple blood test? Or perhaps you've come across the term anti-mullerian hormone (AMH), possibly through Sama SelfStart- and are curious about what it means for your fertility? You're not alone! In this post, we'll explore the basics of AMH, what it indicates, and whether there are ways to influence its levels.
AMH
Anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) is a glycoprotein produced by granulosa cells in the ovaries. These cells line the resting follicles and provide a key indicator of a woman's remaining egg count. Essentially, AMH helps gauge ovarian reserve, which is crucial in fertility assessments.
How and when is AMH Tested in the fertility clinic?
Testing AMH levels is straightforward and can be done anytime during the menstrual cycle. A blood sample, either through a traditional blood draw or a finger prick, is all it takes. With Sama SelfStart, you will receive an order to test your AMH, which you would be able to take to any Labcorp location near you.
What do your AMH Results mean?
AMH levels correlate with the quantity of eggs a woman has, making it a valuable marker for ovarian reserve. Here’s what different levels might indicate:
- High AMH Levels: Often seen in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or younger women, high AMH levels can increase the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) during IVF. However, it is important to note that high levels do not necessarily equate to higher fertility.
- Normal Levels: Suggest a typical response to IVF medications and indicate an expected egg reserve for a woman's age. Normal levels, however, do not guarantee fertility or successful treatment outcomes.
- Low Levels: These can suggest a lower egg reserve. Individuals with lower AMH levels may require more aggressive IVF treatments. While low AMH is linked to a higher chance of earlier menopause and diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), it doesn't directly predict a lower likelihood of pregnancy.
The Role of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) with AMH
FSH, produced by the anterior pituitary gland, is a hormone that is crucial in recruiting follicles during each menstrual cycle. High FSH levels early in the cycle can indicate poor ovarian hormone production, often associated with diminished ovarian reserve. However unlike AMH, FSH levels vary throughout the cycle and must be tested alongside estradiol levels for accurate interpretation.
Limitations of AMH
While AMH is a strong predictor of ovarian response to gonadotropin stimulation in IVF, it is certainly not a reliable indicator of fertility, pregnancy likelihood, or live birth outcomes. AMH primarily predicts egg quantity, not quality.
What Causes Low AMH Levels?
Several factors can influence AMH levels, including:
- Age: The number of eggs declines with age, leading to lower AMH levels.
- Genetic Factors: Conditions like BRCA1 mutations, Fragile X premutation, and Turner syndrome are linked to lower AMH.
- Ovarian Surgery: Procedures like cystectomy or oophorectomy can reduce AMH levels.
- Environmental Factors: Smoking, low vitamin D levels, and higher BMI can negatively impact AMH.
- PCOS: Generally associated with higher AMH levels, PCOS can still involve ovulatory dysfunction requiring medication.
Can IVF Work with Low AMH Levels?
Yes, IVF can work with low AMH levels, but it may require additional cycles to achieve a successful pregnancy. Discussing family-building goals and treatment options with our doctors is essential to determine the best approach.
How to Increase AMH Levels
While age is an irreversible, primary determinant of AMH, certain lifestyle changes could support overall fertility:
- Quit Smoking: Work with your doctor to stop smoking.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing 5-10% of body weight has indicated to improve fertility treatment outcomes.
- Check Vitamin D Levels: Ensure adequate vitamin D levels with your doctor's guidance.
- Adopt a healthy diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, high-quality carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
AMH and Fertility and what can we do about it
AMH is a valuable tool for fertility specialists, but it should not be interpreted in isolation. If you're trying to conceive or are curious about your fertility, knowing your AMH can be informative. Always discuss your results with a fertility doctor to understand the bigger picture of your fertility and family-building goals. If you have any questions, please feel free to schedule a consult with us at Sama below.
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