Utility of Ovarian Reserve Screening with Anti-Müllerian Hormone for Reproductive Age Women Deferring Pregnancy

Abstract

Background:

Ovarian reserve (OR) testing with serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) can provide information about a woman's fertility potential. The aim of this study was to assess interest and knowledge about OR testing and investigate the utility of measuring AMH in women of reproductive age deferring pregnancy.

Methods:

Women ages 27–37 years currently delaying childbearing were invited to take a survey regarding attitudes and knowledge about OR testing before and after an AMH measurement with explanation of their results.

Results:

Of 121 women who took the pre-test survey, 96% believed OR testing was beneficial. The median AMH of the 97 women who underwent testing was 3.3 ng/mL (IQR 1.9–5.4 ng/mL). Nineteen percent of women had AMH <10th percentile for age and 3% had an undetectable AMH. Although 83% of these women were using hormonal contraception, none had known risk factors for diminished ovarian reserve. Seventy-eight percent of women with low AMH levels for age planned to seek fertility preservation or pregnancy, while those with AMH levels within established age normograms were reassured. On the post-test survey, 100% reported benefit in knowing their AMH level. Follow-up testing, 6–8 months after the initial measurement, showed stable AMH levels for most participants.

Conclusions:

Women are interested in OR testing. Most women will be reassured by knowing their AMH level, whereas those with a lower AMH can be counseled on fertility preservation options or may attempt pregnancy earlier.