In short: AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) is a hormone measured with a simple blood test that gives an idea of your ovarian reserve. This article answers one question: what should your AMH level be, and what does that number mean for your fertility?

What is AMH and what does it measure?

AMH is produced by the small egg sacs (follicles) in your ovaries. The level in your blood is proportional to the size of the waiting pool of eggs. That is why AMH is considered one of the most practical markers of ovarian reserve — that is, the quantity of eggs.

An important distinction: AMH tells us about the number of eggs, not their quality. The most important factor for egg quality is still a woman’s age.

What should your AMH level be?

AMH is usually measured in ng/mL. Reference ranges vary slightly depending on the laboratory and the assay used, so a result should always be interpreted together with your doctor. A rough framework looks like this:

• 1.0 – 4.0 ng/mL: the expected (normal) range for most women of reproductive age.
• Below 1.0 ng/mL: may point to a diminished ovarian reserve.
• Above 4.0 ng/mL: a high reserve, sometimes seen together with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

These numbers are not a pass/fail grade. AMH naturally declines with age; a lower value in your late thirties is expected and does not by itself mean infertility.

When and how is the test done?

The practical advantage of AMH is that it can be measured on any day of your cycle — you do not need to wait for a specific day. A single blood sample is enough. Birth control pills can make the result appear somewhat lower, so it helps to mention this to your doctor.

Does low AMH prevent pregnancy?

No. Low AMH means “fewer eggs are waiting,” not “you cannot conceive.” Pregnancy — naturally or with treatment — can still be possible with low AMH. What AMH does tell you is:

• That time may matter, and that it is wise not to postpone an evaluation.
• How your ovaries are likely to respond to medication during IVF treatment.
• That it helps tailor the treatment plan and medication dose to you.

High AMH is not a guarantee of pregnancy on its own either; when it occurs with PCOS in particular, treatment must be planned carefully.

Is AMH enough on its own?

A single number does not show the whole picture. What makes AMH meaningful is evaluating it alongside other findings:

• Age: the strongest predictor of egg quality.
• Antral follicle count (AFC): the number of follicles seen on ultrasound.
• Hormone profile: values such as FSH and estradiol.

When these pieces come together, it becomes possible to build a realistic road map that is specific to you.

When should you get evaluated?

If you are under 35 and have been trying without protection for a year without a pregnancy — or 6 months if you are 35 or older — an evaluation is reasonable. If there is a family history of early menopause, irregular periods, or previous ovarian surgery, it is sensible not to wait. You may also want to read our article on when irregular periods are a warning sign.

Quick common questions

If my AMH is low, can I raise it? There is no medication or supplement proven to permanently raise AMH; what matters is evaluating your current reserve at the right time with the right plan.

Will AMH be the same every year? No — it is expected to decline over time, which is why follow-up matters.

Appointment and contact

If you would like an evaluation to interpret your AMH result together, clarify your ovarian reserve, and create a plan tailored to you, you can book an appointment at our clinic at Biruni University Hospital in Istanbul. If you are wondering how the process unfolds, our step-by-step guide on who IVF treatment is suitable for is a good place to start.

This article is for information only and does not replace an in-person examination and medical assessment. AMH values can vary by laboratory; always interpret your result with your doctor.