Egg Reserve and Anti-Müllerian Hormone: What’s the Deal?

The ticking “biological clock” … How many of us have already felt its pressure? Every body is unique, and while there are always exceptions, one fact remains: as we age, the chance of natural pregnancy gradually drops. That’s where the AMH level steps in, not only as a snapshot of egg count but also as an indicator of possible health factors.

AMH: The Scoop on Egg Reserve and Anti-Müllerian Hormone

Let’s start with the basics: every woman is born with a fixed number of eggs, her ovarian reserve. While men constantly generate new sperm, our egg count is set and decreases with each menstrual cycle. When these eggs are eventually depleted, menopause begins.

What Exactly is Egg Reserve?

Egg reserve represents the number of viable eggs in your ovaries. This is measured using two main markers: the number of follicles visible on an ultrasound and your AMH level.

1. Ultrasound Follicle Count
   An antral follicle count (AFC) ultrasound, done at the start of your cycle, reveals the number of follicles that could mature into eggs. A count of 6–10 is generally considered normal; less than six signals a low egg reserve.
2. Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)
   Produced by the follicles in the ovaries, AMH gives us a reliable read on egg reserve. Simply put, the higher the AMH, the larger the egg reserve.

How is AMH Measured?

AMH levels are easily measured with a blood test, costing between €30 and €150, and may be covered by insurance if deemed necessary. For extra convenience, our self-test also lets you measure your AMH level right from home!

The Numbers Behind AMH:

‍A result over 1 ng/ml usually suggests a good egg reserve, while anything under that may indicate a low reserve and possibly approaching menopause. AMH is a stable marker, unaffected by cycle phases, but results should be interpreted within your personal context. Also, if you’re using hormonal birth control, know that it can lower AMH by up to 30%—so for the most accurate result, measure after taking a break from birth control.

And remember, a lower AMH isn’t the end of the line! AMH and follicle count are just indicators of quantity, helping to estimate a general timeline for possible pregnancy. Pregnancy potential ultimately depends on other factors, like egg quality, partner fertility, and health.

When is AMH Too High?

An AMH level over 5 ng/ml could indicate PCOS, a condition marked by small cysts (or partially developed follicles) in the ovaries, which can affect fertility.

What if AMH is Low?

Unfortunately, there’s no treatment to prevent egg reserve decline—it’s a natural part of aging. But egg freezing (cryopreservation) is a popular option for those who want to preserve fertility.

Lifestyle factors also play a big role: studies show smoking can lower the chances of conception by 4% each year, and being overweight can be just as impactful. While lifestyle adjustments can’t raise your egg reserve, they can help slow its decline.

If you’re uncertain about your AMH levels, want more insight, or are thinking of egg preservation, consider checking in with your doctor for personalized guidance or book a first non-medical orientation intro-call with us.

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