Are you concerned about your fertility? If you’ve recently discovered you have low AMH levels, it’s natural to feel worried. The idea that your fertility might be affected can bring up a lot of questions and concerns.
However, understanding how it affects your body through an AMH test and what steps you can take is empowering. Let’s explore what low levels mean for your fertility and how you can take control of the situation.
How Low AMH Levels Affect Your Fertility
Reduced Egg Quantity
One of the most significant effects of low AMH levels is a reduced quantity of eggs. AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) is an indicator of your ovarian reserve, which refers to the number of eggs you have left. When your levels are low, it suggests that your ovarian reserve is lower than expected. While this might make it harder to conceive naturally, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
Shorter Fertility Window
Low AMH levels can also lead to a shorter fertility window. As your egg reserve declines, your opportunity to conceive naturally narrows. This is particularly important for women who plan to have children later in life. They can mean that delaying pregnancy could make it more difficult to conceive in the future. Understanding this allows you to be proactive and explore treatments or preservation options sooner rather than later.
Difficulties with IVF
Women with low AMH levels may face challenges with in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). Because fewer eggs are available to be retrieved during an IVF cycle, the success rate can be lower. However, this doesn’t mean that IVF is not an option. Many women with low levels have achieved successful pregnancies through IVF, often with tailored protocols designed to optimise egg quality and retrieval. A fertility specialist can help adjust the IVF treatment plan to fit your unique situation.
What You Can Do About Low AMH Levels
Get a Test
If you’re concerned about low AMH levels, the first thing to do is take an AMH test. This simple blood test measures the level of Anti-Müllerian Hormone in your system, giving you a clear indication of your ovarian reserve. Armed with this information, you can better understand your fertility status and take steps to address it. Knowing your levels early on can help you make informed decisions about your conception ability journey.
Consider Fertility Preservation
One proactive step you can take if you have low AMH levels is fertility preservation. This involves freezing your eggs while your ovarian reserve is still viable. By freezing your eggs now, you can use them later when you’re ready to start a family. This option gives you more control over your reproductive timeline and helps reduce the pressure of conceiving within a specific timeframe. It’s an option worth discussing with a specialist if your levels are low.
Consult with a Fertility Specialist
If you’ve been diagnosed with low AMH, consulting a fertility specialist is essential. They can explain the implications of your counts and offer tailored advice on what treatments might be suitable for you. Specialists often recommend specific protocols for women with low ovarian reserves, including IVF, egg freezing, or other interventions. They’ll guide you through every step and provide a roadmap based on your unique needs and health profile.
Lifestyle Adjustments
While there’s no way to increase your ovarian reserve, making lifestyle adjustments can positively impact your overall reproductive health. Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and minimising stress are steps you can take to improve your chances of getting fertilised. Some studies suggest that supplements like CoQ10 and DHEA may support ovarian function, though results can vary.
Dealing with low AMH levels can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that solutions are available. Taking an AMH test is a vital first step in understanding your ovarian reserve, and from there, you can explore the various paths forward. With the right knowledge and a supportive medical team, you can take control of your fertility and explore options that suit your individual needs.
