Unveiling the Role of Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH): A Crucial Player in Human Reproduction
“AMH isn’t just a hormone; it’s a silent orchestrator of fertility, guiding delicate surgeries, shaping IVF protocols, all from a few drops of blood.”
– Dr. MMS Zoha, Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Manipal Hospital Salt Lake, Kolkata
In the intricacies of human reproduction, the ovary always takes center stage. A tiny yet powerful hormone known as Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) begins its journey of significance as early as in intrauterine life. Produced by the ovarian tissues, AMH plays a pivotal role in orchestrating fertility and serves as a vital marker of ovarian reserve—the capacity of the ovary to produce eggs for potential fertilization.
AMH is a discreet messenger, secreted by ovarian cells throughout a woman’s lifespan. By 36 weeks of pregnancy, female fetuses unleash a surge of AMH into their developing bodies, providing a glimpse into their future ovarian reserve. This process holds immense implications beyond fertility, shedding light on various medical scenarios.
It’s association with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), is gradually becoming clearer and AMH measurement offering an useful tool for assessment of fertility in these patients. Moreover
AMH also guides delicate surgical procedures, such as surgery of ovarian endometriosis. Surgeons can meticulously extract unhealthy tissues while preserving valuable healthy ovarian follicles. AMH level can guide the surgeon to decide the optimum amount of tissue can be resected in ovarian endometrioma. It’s assessment is also considered to be useful in young cancer patients who are undergoing treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
In Assisted Reproductive Technique, AMH plays a pivotal role in starting the process. During ‘In Vitro Fertilization’ (IVF), AMH levels dictate the dosage of injections. High AMH levels call for a gentler approach, while low levels demand a more robust regimen. However, AMH doesn’t stand alone. It combines with ultrasonography, revealing the antral follicle count (AFC). This dynamic duo provides a comprehensive snapshot of ovarian reserves, guiding IVF protocols with precision.
In this era of advanced medical technology, AMH emerges as a humble yet potent blood test. It reveals ovarian reserves, shapes surgical strategies, and charts IVF courses, all from a few drops of blood.
The natural conception journey often bypasses this hormonal intersection, as naturally conceiving mothers find themselves exempt from this intricate analysis.