Low AMH Explained: What It Really Means for Fertility

Author: Dr Lauren, Clinical Lead – Marylebone Diagnostic Centre

Being told you have a low AMH can feel alarming. Many patients assume it means infertility, early menopause, or that pregnancy is no longer possible. In reality, low AMH is one of the most misunderstood fertility results in modern medicine. This article explains what low AMH actually means, what it does not mean, and how clinicians use it responsibly.

What Does “Low AMH” Mean?

AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) reflects ovarian reserve, not fertility itself.

• A low AMH suggests:
  • Fewer remaining eggs
  • Reduced response to ovarian stimulation
• It does not mean:
  • You cannot ovulate
  • You cannot conceive naturally
  • Pregnancy is impossible

Note: AMH measures quantity, not egg quality.

What Causes Low AMH?

• Increasing age
• Previous ovarian surgery
• Endometriosis
• Chemotherapy or radiotherapy
• Genetic factors

Some individuals naturally have lower AMH without underlying disease. Importantly, AMH levels vary between laboratories, which is why testing quality and interpretation matter.

Can You Get Pregnant with Low AMH?

Yes – many people with low AMH conceive.

• Natural conception depends on ovulation, not egg count
• Egg quality often remains good at younger ages
• Regular cycles are a positive sign

Low AMH does not equal infertility. At MDC, we see patients conceive naturally even with very low AMH values.

Low AMH and IVF

Low AMH is most relevant when planning IVF. It helps predict:

• How the ovaries may respond to stimulation
• Likely egg yield
• Protocol selection

However, low AMH does not mean IVF will not work – it guides strategy, not outcome. This is why IVF decisions should never be based on AMH alone.

Low AMH vs Early Menopause

Low AMH does not diagnose early menopause. Menopause is defined by:

• Symptoms
• Cycle cessation
• FSH levels
• Clinical assessment

AMH may decline years before menopause occurs. Many individuals with low AMH continue menstruating and ovulating for years.

Can AMH Be Increased?

AMH generally declines with age and does not reliably increase. Some lifestyle changes may support overall reproductive health:

• Smoking cessation
• Weight optimisation
• Stress management

However, supplements and interventions claiming to “raise AMH” should be approached cautiously. At MDC, we focus on realistic planning, not false reassurance.

When Low AMH Should Prompt Action

Low AMH may support earlier discussion if:

• Pregnancy is being delayed
• Egg freezing is being considered
• IVF is planned
• Family history suggests early menopause

Early information allows informed choices, not panic.

Low AMH in Younger Patients

Low AMH in younger individuals requires careful interpretation. Factors to consider:

• Cycle regularity
• Hormone profile
• Ultrasound findings
• Fertility goals

A single AMH result should never be viewed in isolation.