By Jasmine Sufi R.TCMP
WHAT is AMH?
AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) is a hormone produced by the small, early-stage follicles in the ovaries. These follicles contain immature eggs. AMH does not tell us whether you will get pregnant — instead, it offers insight into ovarian reserve, or how many eggs remain available.
Think of AMH as a snapshot of quantity.
AMH is relatively stable throughout the menstrual cycle and can be tested on any day, making it one of the more convenient fertility markers.
HOW is AMH Tested?
- Simple blood test
- Can be done any day of the cycle
- Often tested alongside:
- FSH
- Estradiol
- AFC (antral follicle count via ultrasound)
WHY AMH Matters (But Shouldn’t Define You)
AMH helps predict:
- Response to fertility treatments
- Egg quantity over time
AMH does not predict:
- Egg quality
- Natural conception success
- Your body’s ability to respond to supportive care
Many people with low AMH conceive naturally or with support. The key is shifting the focus from quantity to quality.
HOW to Support Fertility When AMH Is Low
1. Improve Egg Quality
Egg quality depends on:
- Cellular energy
- Low oxidative stress (Inflammation)
- Healthy mitochondria
Supportive nutrients and habits:
- CoQ10 (ubiquinol form)
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Antioxidant-rich foods (berries, leafy greens)
- Adequate protein
- Restorative sleep
Eggs take ~90 days to mature, so changes today matter in 3 months.
2. Strengthen Mitochondrial Health
Mitochondria power egg development.
Support includes:
- Stable blood sugar
- Gentle exercise (not excessive cardio)
- Avoiding toxin overload (plastics, pesticides)
- Nutrients: B-vitamins, magnesium, Vitamin D
3. Reduce Inflammation
Chronic inflammation accelerates ovarian aging.
Helpful strategies:
- Anti-inflammatory diet
- Managing stress and cortisol
- Healing gut health
- Avoiding extreme dieting or over-exercise
Inflammation is not just physical — emotional stress matters too.
AMH Through a Traditional Chinese Medicine Lens
In TCM, AMH relates closely to:
- Kidney Jing (Essence) — reproductive potential
- Kidney Yin — nourishment of eggs
- Blood and Liver flow — follicle development and ovulation
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we understand that the body is born with all the eggs it will ever have. As we move through life, the number of eggs naturally and gradually declines. This is a normal and expected part of aging. What is often overlooked, however, is that as we age, the quality of our cells — including our eggs — can also change, not because the body is failing, but because life itself requires energy.
Every day, we draw upon our Jing, Yin, and Blood to think, move, work, feel, and care for others. These essential substances are meant to be used, but they are also meant to be restored. Through nourishment, rest, emotional regulation, and mindful care of the body and mind, we continually replenish what we spend. When lifestyle habits are supportive and diet is nourishing, the rate of decline slows, and the body is better able to maintain resilience and vitality over time.
Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine are tools many people use to support this natural process of restoration. By strengthening digestion, improving sleep quality, calming the nervous system, and supporting the body’s ability to manage stress, these therapies help the body access and rebuild its own resources more effectively. With the right support, Jing, Blood, and Yin can be protected, nourished, and optimized, even as we age.
From this perspective, AMH is not a judgment or a diagnosis — it is information. It offers insight that can help you make informed and empowered decisions about your body and your reproductive goals. A low AMH result does not mean your body is broken, and it does not mean a healthy pregnancy is out of reach. With the right steps, thoughtful support, and personalized guidance, it is possible to improve overall health, support fertility, and move forward with greater confidence and clarity.
If you would like to learn how we can support you on this journey, we invite you to reach out. We are here to help you care for your health, your fertility, and your whole self.
Give us a call today to find out how we can support you.
