AMH TEST VITAL PART OF INITITIAL INFERTILITY WORKUP

A woman’s chronological age is the single most important factor in predicting a couple’s reproductive potential, age has often guided infertility treatment choices. However, age alone doesn’t tell the whole story . Measurements of FSH (follicle stimulating hormone), LH (luteinizing hormone), estradiol, and inhibin-B have all been utilized to assess fertility treatment probability. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) testing is the single best measurement, and coupled with AFC (antral follicle count), is the most accurate predictor of a woman’s remaining ovarian reserve(the number of eggs remaining in the ovaries). AMH testing is routinely used as part of the initial workup by fertility specialists at Utah Fertility Center to help determine treatment options and directions for best possible outcomes. Additional studies on AMH aim to provide effects on ovarian responsiveness, and determine onset of menopause.

AMH test UtahCommon Questions:
1. What is AMH? Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a hormone made by small follicles as they grow in the ovaries. The AMH level indicates the number of eggs remaining in the ovaries. As a woman grows older, and the number of eggs decrease, and the AMH level declines. Therefore, by the time a woman reaches menopause, AMH is undetectable.

2. How is my AMH evaluated? AMH results are taken from a simple blood test and can be done in our Pleasant Grove, Murray and St. George locations. Unlike FSH, AMH can be measured anytime during a woman’s cycle.

3. What does my physician learn from my AMH? AMH blood levels are thought to represent the number of eggs remaining in the ovaries and is used to help predict how a woman will respond to fertility treatments. AMH is usually the earliest indicator of diminished ovarian reserve and reduced AMH levels can indicate a problem before an increase in baseline FSH is seen.

4. What is the cost of AMH test and is it covered by insurance? The majority of women with insurance have coverage for AMH testing as part of their fertility evaluation. The cost for an AMH level test is $85.00 and is commonly completed along with other blood work at a new patient consultation.

5. Does PCOS effect AMH levels? Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) have a higher number of early antral follicles resulting in higher baseline AMH levels. AMH levels may be correlated to PCOS severity and have been found to be higher in women with insulin resistant PCOS.

6. How does AMH relate to IVF? Women with higher AMH values will tend to have better response to ovarian stimulation for IVF, with more eggs retrieved. AMH levels probably do not reflect egg quality. Having more eggs at the IVF egg retrieval provides an opportunity for a greater number of eggs to fertilize and develop into embryos. However, more eggs does not always mean more embryos. Egg quality plays a role in the fertilization and development of embryos. Our physicians at UFC use AMH results among many other criteria to establish plans and protocols for each individual couple to help you achieve your ultimate goal of having a baby.

If you have been trying to conceive unsuccessfully and/or would like to consult with a Reproductive Endocrinologist about your AMH and fertility treatment options call us at 801-785-5100.