In this article:
What Is AMH and Why Does It Matter?
AMH refers to Anti-Mullerian Hormone. This hormone is synthesised in the small follicles in your ovaries, the ones that contain immature eggs. The outcome of a blood test of AMH suggests to the doctors about your ovarian reserve, or the number of eggs you have left.You need to know that AMH does not provide a clue about the quality of your eggs, only their quantity. Additionally, AMH cannot forecast the precise date when you will cease ovulating or if you are fertile at present.
What Is Considered a Low AMH Level?
AMH levels are measured in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL), and here's a general guide:- Normal AMH: 1.0 to 3.5 ng/mL
- Low AMH: Below 1.0 ng/mL
- Very Low AMH: Below 0.3 ng/mL
These values can vary slightly based on the lab and country, but if your level is below 1.0, your doctor may inform you that your ovarian reserve is on the lower end.
Can You Still Get Pregnant With Low AMH?
Yes, you can.Numerous women low in AMH have become pregnant either naturally or through fertility-enhancing interventions. Your AMH level isn't the whole picture. Your age, personal health, and the quality of the eggs also influence this.
You can imagine that AMH is a kind of warning bell - it shows that you may be losing eggs, but not all is lost. Pregnancy is possible, but you may have to do it sooner or consider other forms of fertility.
Why Do AMH Levels Decrease?
AMH naturally drops with age. Most women are born with about 1 to 2 million eggs. By the time you reach puberty, only about 3,00,000–5,00,000 remain. As you age, the number continues to go down.Other factors that can reduce AMH levels include:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) (though AMH is often high in PCOS)
- Endometriosis
- Ovarian surgery
- Chemotherapy or radiation
- Autoimmune diseases
- Smoking
Sometimes, low AMH occurs without a clear reason; this is referred to as idiopathic low ovarian reserve.
How Does Low AMH Affect Fertility Treatments?
If you’re considering IVF (In-Vitro Fertilisation) or other fertility treatments, low AMH may affect how your body responds to the medications. You may produce fewer eggs during a cycle, which can result in a reduced number of embryos available.However, fewer eggs do not mean poor chances. Many clinics today use customised stimulation protocols to help women with low AMH get the best possible outcome. Also, egg quality matters more than quantity, especially if you’re younger.
What Can You Do If You Have Low AMH?
If you’ve been told your AMH is low, don’t panic. Here’s what you can do:1. Get a Full Fertility Evaluation
Your AMH level should be looked at along with other tests, like:
- Antral Follicle Count (AFC) through ultrasound
- FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) levels
- Oestradiol levels
These give a clearer idea of your fertility status.
2. Consider Fertility Planning
If you're not ready for a baby right now, you can discuss options like egg freezing. If you're trying to conceive, your doctor might suggest trying sooner rather than later or going for assisted treatments like IUI or IVF, depending on your condition.
3. Focus on Your Health
While you can’t change your AMH, you can improve your overall health:
- Eat a balanced diet
- Avoid smoking and alcohol
- Manage stress
- Consider taking antioxidants or supplements like CoQ10 (only under medical advice)
Are There Natural Ways to Increase AMH?
Unfortunately, there is no proven way to naturally increase AMH. While some herbal supplements and lifestyle changes are said to improve ovarian function, they don't directly increase AMH levels.That said, a healthy lifestyle can support your body and improve egg quality, which is just as important.
Does Low AMH Always Mean Infertility?
Not at all.Low AMH doesn't mean you’re infertile; it just means your fertility window may be shorter. Some women with very low AMH still conceive without any medical help. Others may need a little support.
The key is early action. If you know your AMH is low, speak with a fertility specialist and plan.
AMH testing is not something you need to repeat on a monthly basis. It's usually enough to test it once a year unless you're undergoing fertility treatment. Also, don't rely only on this number; it's just one piece of the puzzle.
FAQs on Can You Still Get Pregnant If Your Egg Count Is Low?
- Can you get pregnant naturally with a low AMH level?
Yes, many women with low AMH conceive naturally. It might take more time, and age plays a big role. Low AMH means fewer eggs, but if you’re still ovulating regularly, pregnancy is possible. - Should I consider freezing my eggs if I have a low AMH level?
If you're not planning to have children soon, egg freezing might be a good option. However, it’s best to talk to a fertility specialist, as low AMH may mean fewer eggs are retrieved during the process. - Is IVF the only option if I have low AMH?
No, IVF is not the only path. Depending on your age, health, and egg quality, options like timed intercourse, IUI, or even natural conception may still work. IVF may be suggested if other methods don’t succeed.
