When it comes to fertility, many women today live and breathe by one number – their AMH level. It’s the first thing most of us hear about when planning a pregnancy or freezing our eggs. A low score often feels like a ticking clock, while a high one seems reassuring. But here’s the truth: AMH is only part of the story. It tells you how many eggs you have, not how healthy they are, and in the world of fertility, quality often matters more than quantity.
What Is Anti-Müllerian Hormone?
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is one of the most widely discussed markers of female fertility today. “As a biomarker of ovarian reserve, it indicates the approximate number of eggs in a woman’s ovaries and is often linked with conception potential. However, it is a misconception when one relies solely on the AMH levels to define their fertility outcomes. AMH levels determine egg quantity rather than quality—the critical factor that determines successful conception,” explained Dr Jalagam Kavya Rao, Regional Head of Oasis Fertility, Warangal, Telangana.
Also Read: Understanding Your Ovarian Reserve: Why Age and AMH Matter in IVF Success
Egg Quality vs Egg Quantity: Why It Matters More
Generally, egg quality determines how healthy an egg is, especially in terms of genetic and cellular aspects. A good-quality egg has the right number of chromosomes and energy reserves to support fertilisation and early embryo development. Dr Rao said, "While egg count can be measured through AMH, egg quality cannot be directly tested. Instead, indirect indicators like Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) can offer hints about egg quality, but not the complete picture. When FSH levels are abnormally high, it's frequently associated with lower egg quality."
Age, lifestyle choices, and fertility problems like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis continue to have a significant impact on egg quality, she added. She stated that early reproductive checkups, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle can contribute to better egg health and preserve its quality. Egg freezing is another empowering option for women who want to delay having children.
What Research Says About AMH and Fertility Success
A 2024 study of 320 IVF patients had AMH values strongly correlating with the number of oocytes recovered (rho = 0.659) and quality embryos, such as Grade A or AB (rho ≈ 0.42–0.45).
A meta-analysis of more than a dozen trials revealed that elevated AMH among PCOS patients was correlated with decreased odds of clinical pregnancy and live birth with IVF versus those with lower values, even though producing more eggs.
Also Read: Simplifying AMH For You: Know What Is Your Fertility Score and More
The Truth About Low and High AMH Levels
Women with low AMH levels often lose hope about their fertility prospects. However, low AMH does not necessarily mean pregnancy is impossible. It indicates a reduced ovarian reserve, but natural conception can still occur. “Comparatively, women with PCOS frequently have elevated AMH levels. However, PCOS does not guarantee a successful pregnancy either, due to the improper maturation of excess follicles in the ovaries,” explained Dr Rao.
Moreover, those who have normal AMH levels may assume they are assured of successful conception, but this is a misconception. AMH values can fluctuate—for instance, prolonged use of oral contraceptives may temporarily lower AMH readings.
To address these myths, Dr Rao has put a lot of focus on increased awareness regarding fertility testing and treatments to correct these myths. Due to this awareness, women can make informed decisions about their reproductive path.
Bottomline
Dr Rao concluded, “Although AMH is a good fertility marker, it cannot be used solely for assessing a successful pregnancy. Multiple factors, such as ovarian reserve, egg quality, age, lifestyle, and overall reproductive health, influence fertility. Women and couples can have realistic expectations and take responsible steps to a healthier and better-informed fertility path to parenthood by increasing awareness of fertility tests and treatment."