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Anti-Müllerian Hormone Test
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Lab Tests

Anti-Müllerian Hormone Test

The anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) test measures hormone levels in the blood to assess ovarian reserve in females and reproductive health in males.

Overview

An anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) test measures the amount of AMH in a blood sample. In males, AMH is produced by the testicles; in females, it is produced by the ovaries. Normal levels vary significantly based on age and sex.

In unborn babies, AMH is critical for the development of reproductive organs. In females of childbearing age, higher levels of AMH generally indicate a larger supply of eggs, known as ovarian reserve. As females age, the number of eggs decreases, causing AMH levels to drop until they reach zero at menopause.

What is it used for?

AMH tests are primarily used to assist in fertility treatment decisions and to diagnose specific reproductive conditions:

  • Ovarian Reserve: It helps check how many eggs remain in the ovaries. While it indicates the size of the reserve, it cannot predict egg health or the ability to conceive.
  • Fertility Treatment Planning: It helps providers predict how well a patient might respond to fertility medicines used in in vitro fertilization (IVF).
  • Menopause Assessment: It can help identify if a patient is approaching premature or early menopause, though it cannot predict the exact timing of menopause.
  • PCOS and Ovarian Cancer: It is used to monitor conditions that cause high AMH levels, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or certain ovarian cancers.
  • Pediatric Health: In male infants, it is used to check for healthy testicular tissue in cases of undescended testicles or to investigate atypical genitalia.

Why do I need an AMH test?

Females may require this test if they are experiencing fertility problems, showing symptoms of PCOS (such as irregular periods, acne, or weight gain), or undergoing treatment for ovarian cancer. Male infants may need the test if their testicles have not descended into the scrotum, or if they are born with atypical genitalia.

What happens during the test?

A health care professional will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The process typically takes less than five minutes. There are no special preparations required for this test.

Understanding Results

Results are interpreted based on the reason for the test:

  • Fertility: High levels generally mean more eggs are available; low levels suggest a shrinking egg supply.
  • PCOS: High levels may be a sign of PCOS, though the test cannot diagnose the condition on its own.
  • Menopause: Low levels may indicate the approach of menopause; an undetectable level confirms that a patient is in menopause.
  • Ovarian Cancer: A decrease in AMH during treatment usually indicates the treatment is working, while an increase may suggest the cancer has returned.
  • Male Infants: Normal levels indicate working testicles that are simply not in the correct location. Little to no AMH may indicate missing or non-functioning testicular tissue.

Frequently Asked Questions

No special fasting is required for an AMH test, but it’s best to avoid hormonal birth control, fertility drugs, or high‑dose supplements for at least a few weeks if possible, because they can artificially raise or lower the result. Check with your provider about any prescription or over‑the‑counter meds you’re taking.
low AMH indicates a reduced quantity of remaining eggs, which can make it harder to conceive, especially with age. However, it does not measure egg quality, and many women with low AMH still achieve natural pregnancy or success with assisted reproductive techniques. Your doctor will combine AMH with other factors (age, ovulation patterns, partner’s sperm) to give a realistic outlook.
MH is relatively stable month‑to‑month, but it does decline gradually as you age. Certain interventions—such as ovarian stimulation for IVF, hormonal contraceptives, or chemotherapy—can temporarily lower AMH. After stopping the influencing factor, levels may rebound, but the overall age‑related decline continues.
High AMH is common in PCOS because many small follicles produce the hormone. It does not mean you have “too many” eggs, but it can signal a higher risk of ovarian hyper‑stimulation during IVF. Your fertility specialist will likely use a lower dose of stimulation drugs and monitor closely to avoid complications while still aiming for a good number of mature eggs.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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