AMH Testing
Anti Mullerian Hormone (AMH) Testing is now available at 4Cyte Pathology.
AMH testing provides insight into a woman's ovarian reserve. Whilst it does not assess egg quality or fertility, it is useful in assessing egg reserves, fertility planning, IVF and fertility treatment, after cancer treatment, egg freezing decisions and diagnosing conditions such as PCOS.
4Cyte Pathology is the only Australian pathology provider that performs AMH testing at no out-of-pocket cost to patient with a Medicare valid referral.
What is Ovarian Reserve?
Ovarian reserve (or egg reserve) refers to the number of viable eggs remaining in a woman's ovaries. Women are born with a finite number of eggs, and this egg reserve decreases progressively with age, with the rate of decline accelerating over time. Furthermore, the quality of these eggs gradually declines with age, with a more rapid decline typically beginning around the age of 36.
What is an AMH test used for?
The AMH test offers an indication of a woman's remaining egg reserve (or supply) and potential number of fertile years. However, it does not provide information about the quality of the eggs.
How to interpret AMH Test Results?
General Guidelines (for women of reproductive age):
| AMH Level (pmol/L) | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| < 5 | Very low ovarian reserve |
| 5 - 14 | Low-normal range |
| 15 - 25 | Normal ovarian reserve |
| 26-40 | Good ovarian reserve |
| > 40 | High - possible PCOS or polycystic ovaries |
- AMH naturally declines with age. What's considered "normal" for a 25-year-old would be high for a 40-year-old.
- AMH is not a direct measure of fertility. One low result does not mean you're infertile.
- Other tests (like FSH) and clinical context need to be assessed by your medical practitioner.
- AMH does not assess egg quality, only quantity.
- Women with PCOS often have high AMH levels due to more small follicles.
- Very low or undetectable AMH may indicate perimenopause or menopause.
How do AMH Test results vary as you age?
AMH naturally declines with age. What's considered "normal" for a 25-year-old would be high for a 40-year-old.
The chart below shows the median AMH test result for each age group. The downward slope of the 50th Percentile Median Result reflects the natural decline as patient's age.
The shaded area represents the middle 80% of patient results for each age group.
In what situations is an AMH test helpful?
The AMH test may be helpful in the following situations:
- You're planning to conceive in the future and wish to gain insight into your current ovarian (or egg) reserve.
- You've been unsuccessfully trying to conceive and want reassurance that your ovarian (or egg) reserve is appropriate for your age.
- You're considering IVF or other fertility treatments, as low AMH levels may suggest a limited response to treatment, while high levels may indicate a stronger—or even excessive—response to IVF medications.
- Diagnosing women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Women with PCOS often have higher-than-normal AMH levels, which may support diagnosis when combined with other clinical signs.
- You've undergone chemotherapy or ovarian/endometrial surgery and want to assess whether your ovarian reserve has been affected.
How do I get tested for AMH?
You can request a referral for an AMH test from your GP.
The test can be performed at your nearest 4Cyte Pathology patient collection centre (click here).
Results are typically available within a week and will be sent directly to your referring doctor.
Can I get tested at any time for AMH?
Because AMH levels remain stable throughout the menstrual cycle, the test can be done at any time via a blood sample. It can also be performed while using hormonal contraception.
Will I have to pay for my AMH testing at 4Cyte?
No.
At 4Cyte Pathology, any patient with a valid Medicare referral will not have to pay any out-of-pocket charge for AMH testing?
Does 4Cyte accept other pathology company referrals?
Yes.
4Cyte accepts all pathology referrals.