Low AMH generally indicates a lower ovarian reserve, meaning the number of eggs in the ovaries may be reduced. AMH levels naturally decrease with age, particularly in the late 30s and 40s, reflecting the natural decline in fertility with age. A low AMH level in a younger woman can be linked to early ovarian ageing or diminished ovarian reserve, which may affect fertility.
Reasons associated with a low AMH level include age, certain medical conditions (such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and endometriosis), a surgical history involving the ovaries, or having chemotherapy or radiation treatments.
Fertility specialists, including reproductive endocrinologists, often review low AMH results when discussing fertility and possible next steps, which can include fertility treatments such as IVF.
While a low AMH level can be a sign of diminished ovarian reserve, it is not an absolute determinant of fertility. Some women with low AMH levels still conceive naturally, and a high AMH level is not a guarantee of fertility. Many other factors contribute to the ability to conceive. Testing sex hormones is also sometimes considered alongside AMH (see testing sex hormones).
This result is commonly shared with the practitioner who originally arranged the test, and fertility specialists may also be involved in interpretation.