For couples trying to conceive, the journey can comprise of excitement, anticipation and sometimes unexpected challenges. One such challenge is low levels of anti-mullerian hormone (AMH). Read through to understand the essentials like the relationship between AMH and pregnancy, what happens if AMH is low, how to maintain or slow the decline in AMH, when to see a fertility specialist and develop a solution-based approach towards the situation.
Relationship between AMH and pregnancy: AMH is an indicator of ovarian reserve - the amount and quality available for fertilization. High AMH levels generally indicate good fertility.
Here are some signs that can help you understand whether your AMH levels are low and the changes this can cause to your reproductive health.
Blood test: Your AMH level can be measured with a simple blood test. AMH levels less than 1 ng/mL are generally considered low.
Ovarian reserves: Decreased AMH levels indicate decreased ovarian reserves, which means a decrease in the number of eggs remaining in the ovaries. This can cause problems with natural conception.
Fertility complications: Low AMH levels are associated with decreased fertility and increased risk of infertility. The pregnancy may take longer and IVF and other assisted reproductive techniques may be recommended.
Menopause: Women with low AMH levels experience premature menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), leading to menopause before 40 years of age.
Response to fertility stimulation: Women with low AMH levels during fertility treatments such as IVF may respond to fertility stimulants, resulting in fewer eggs being retrieved for fertilization.
Decreased AMH levels may indicate decreased uterine reserves or reduced egg size. Although it does not directly affect the ability to conceive naturally, having fewer eggs available for fertilization can affect the chances of a successful pregnancy.
While it is impossible to increase or restore declining AMH levels naturally, there are steps individuals can take to slow their decline:
If you have actively tried unsuccessfully to conceive for more than a year (or six months if you are over 35), it is recommended that you consult with a fertility specialist regardless of your AMH levels where relevant testing and evaluation will be performed on your birth and give proper guidance.
CoQ10: Coenzyme Q10, commonly known as CoQ10, is a powerful antioxidant that plays an important role in energy production in cells. Studies have shown that CoQ10 supplementation can help improve uterine function by protecting eggs from oxidative stress and increasing mitochondrial function. By maintaining optimal mitochondrial function, CoQ10 can support healthy egg production and can increase levels of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH).
DHEA: Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone that is naturally produced by the pituitary glands of the body. DHEA supplementation has been shown to have a positive effect on uterine function and fertility in women with hypogonadism. The belief is that DHEA helps by increasing estrogen and testosterone, which can support egg quality and increase AMH levels.
Myo-inositol: Myo-inositol is a naturally occurring compound belonging to the vitamin B complex family. It has been studied for its potential benefits in improving uterine function and hormone balance in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Myo-inositol supplements can help control insulin levels, lower testosterone levels and promote regular ovulation. By promoting overall reproductive health, Myo-inositol can help maintain normal AMH levels.
While low AMH levels can cause a delay in conception, it’s important to remember that natural pregnancy is still possible. Depending on your relative parameters, you will either be granted some time or provided some assistance.
Many couples with low AMH have successfully conceived through assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF or IUI. Low AMH levels do not mean your journey to parenthood is over. By understanding the relationship between AMH and pregnancy, taking early steps to support reproductive health and professional guidance when needed, couples can navigate the challenges of AMH with hope and perseverance.
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