Anti – Mullerian Hormone
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is a protein hormone produced by granulosa cells in ovarian follicles. It serves as a key marker in assessing ovarian reserve and fertility potential in women.
- Function:
- AMH plays a crucial role in the development of primary ovarian follicles, which are the structures that contain and release eggs during ovulation.
- It helps regulate the growth and development of these follicles.
- Assessment of Ovarian Reserve:
- AMH levels provide an estimate of a woman's remaining egg supply.
- High AMH levels generally indicate a good ovarian reserve, while low levels suggest a diminished ovarian reserve.
- Fertility Evaluation:
- AMH testing is a vital component in fertility assessments, particularly for women considering assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like IVF.
- It helps predict response to ovarian stimulation and the likelihood of success in fertility treatments.
- Age and AMH Levels:
- AMH levels naturally decline with age, reflecting the gradual reduction in the number of viable eggs.
- Testing can help assess fertility potential at different stages of a woman's reproductive life.
- Diagnosis of Ovarian Conditions:
- Abnormal AMH levels can indicate conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (often high levels) or premature ovarian insufficiency (low levels).
- Menstrual Cycle Independence:
- Unlike other hormonal tests, AMH levels remain relatively stable throughout the menstrual cycle, providing a consistent and reliable measure of ovarian reserve.
Importance of AMH Testing:
- Personalized Treatment: Guides fertility specialists in tailoring treatment plans for individuals based on their ovarian reserve.
- Early Intervention: Helps identify women at risk of reduced fertility early, allowing for proactive management and treatment strategies.
- Reproductive Planning: Assists women in making informed decisions about family planning and reproductive health.
AMH testing is a valuable tool in reproductive medicine, offering crucial insights into ovarian health and fertility potential.