AMH test
A fertility test to determine how many eggs you have left
If you’re starting your fertility journey or have concerns about your ability to conceive, you’ve likely heard about the AMH test. But what is it for, and what can it really tell you?
Put simply, the Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) test is a blood test that provides a snapshot of your ovarian reserve – the number of eggs you have remaining in your ovaries. This hormone is produced by the small follicles in your ovaries, so your AMH level gives your specialist a strong indication of your egg quantity. Understanding this number is an important part of building a picture of your reproductive health and can help guide decisions about fertility treatment.
What is ovarian reserve?
At birth, a baby girl has around 2 million immature eggs (oocytes). By puberty, this number has decreased to 300,000-400,000. By age 37, most women only have about 25,000 eggs left. By age 51 (average age of menopause), the average is down to just 1,000.
As you can see, ovarian reserve naturally declines with age, particularly after the mid-30s. It can also be affected by factors such as:
- Genetics
- Certain medical conditions (e.g. endometriosis, autoimmune disorders)
- Previous ovarian surgery
- Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
What is AMH testing?
If you’re struggling to conceive, it’s important to know how many remaining eggs you have. This is a key measure of reproductive potential and can influence the chances of natural conception or success with fertility treatment.
AMH stands for anti-Müllerian hormone – a hormone produced by small follicles in your ovaries. Your AMH level reflects your ovarian reserve, which is the number of eggs remaining in your ovaries.
High AMH levels may indicate a higher ovarian reserve. Low AMH levels may suggest a diminished ovarian reserve, meaning there are fewer eggs available.
It’s important to note that AMH levels do not measure egg quality – only quantity. A high AMH level does not guarantee your ability to conceive. However, it’s certainly very useful information that can inform treatment decisions.
How to test for low AMH
An AMH test is a blood test that can be taken at any point in your menstrual cycle. At Demeter Fertility, your AMH level is interpreted alongside your medical and reproductive history and the results of other fertility tests, such as:
Antral follicle count (via ultrasound)
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
Estradiol levels
This comprehensive approach ensures that your AMH result is considered in the context of your overall fertility health.
How to Get an AMH Test in Australia: Process & Costs
One of the first questions many people ask is, “How can I test my fertility?” A great starting point is a conversation with your GP, who can discuss your health history and provide a referral to a fertility specialist. The AMH test itself is a simple blood test that can be performed at any time during your menstrual cycle.
A common question is whether the AMH test is covered by Medicare. In Australia, an AMH test is generally not covered by a Medicare rebate if it is requested for fertility screening alone. However, a rebate may be available if your doctor requests the test to investigate specific medical conditions, such as suspected Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or premature ovarian failure. The out-of-pocket cost for the test typically ranges from $80 to $120. At Demeter Fertility, we can guide you through this process as part of a comprehensive fertility assessment.
Can you get pregnant with low AMH?
Receiving a low AMH result can be distressing, and it’s natural to immediately wonder: “Can I still get pregnant?”
Yes, it is certainly possible. It is crucial to remember that your AMH level indicates the quantity of your eggs, not the quality.
While a lower number means fewer eggs are available, it only takes one healthy egg to achieve a successful pregnancy. Conception depends on a combination of factors, including egg quality, sperm health, and your overall uterine health.
Many women with low AMH conceive naturally, and for those who need support, a low result simply provides vital information that allows your specialist to create a treatment plan tailored to your circumstances.
Can I increase my AMH level?
There is currently no scientifically proven way to permanently increase AMH levels.
How can I support my fertility with low AHM?
There are lifestyle changes that may support your overall fertility, such as:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol
- Managing underlying health conditions.
At Demeter Fertility, we also offer targeted medical treatments. These will not directly raise AMH levels but they may support your overall fertility.
What treatments are available if you have low AMH?
If you have low AMH, treatment options will depend on your fertility goals, age, and overall health.
We may recommend:
Ovarian rejuvenation
Demeter Fertility’s trailblazing program that seeks to help you produce new eggs to improve your chance of conceiving.
IVF for low AMH
Tailored IVF stimulation protocols to help maximise egg retrieval.
Donor eggs
Our donor program may be an option when very few viable eggs remain
Over-40s fertility
Our comprehensive program supports women over 40 who are trying to conceive.
Your fertility specialist will guide you through these options, helping you choose the most appropriate approach for your circumstances.
Why choose Demeter Fertility for AMH testing?
We understand the emotional impact of a low AMH result and provide ongoing support to help you navigate your fertility journey with confidence.
At Demeter Fertility, you’re assured of:
- Comprehensive fertility assessments, not just a single test result
- Personalised treatment plans for low AMH and low ovarian reserve
- A patient-centred approach backed by evidence-based care.
If you’re concerned about your AMH levels or your overall fertility, please contact us.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AMH
What should my AMH be for my age?
AMH levels naturally decline with age. While specific "normal" ranges can vary between labs (often measured in pmol/L in Australia), levels are generally highest in your mid-20s and decrease steadily after your mid-30s. A fertility specialist can interpret your result in the context of your age and full reproductive health profile.
What does it mean when your AMH is low?
A low AMH level suggests a diminished or low ovarian reserve, meaning you have fewer remaining eggs than is typical for your age group. Importantly, AMH does not measure egg quality, which is also a critical factor for conception.
Can I get pregnant with low AMH?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to get pregnant with low AMH. Many women with low ovarian reserve conceive both naturally and with the help of fertility treatments like IVF. A low AMH result helps your specialist tailor a treatment plan to improve your chances of success.
How do you treat low AMH levels?
There is no proven medical treatment to increase your AMH level or reverse a low ovarian reserve. Instead, fertility treatments focus on working with your remaining eggs. This often involves personalised IVF protocols designed to optimise egg retrieval.
Is the AMH test covered by Medicare in Australia?
Generally, an AMH test requested purely for fertility screening is not covered by Medicare. A rebate may be available if the test is ordered to investigate a specific medical concern, such as PCOS or premature menopause. It's best to discuss this with your GP or fertility specialist.
How can I test my fertility?
A comprehensive fertility assessment is a thorough way to understand your reproductive health. This typically starts with a consultation with a GP or fertility specialist and includes a series of tests, such as the AMH blood test, an antral follicle count ultrasound, and hormone tests for FSH and estradiol.
Disclaimer
All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.