• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Fertility Topics
  • Fertility Therapies
  • Hormone Health
  • Nutrition
  • Success Stories
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com
  • Shop Products
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility tips, information, herbs, supplements and more

  • Shop Products

Fertility Therapies

AMH, Ovarian Reserve, & Continued Follicle Production

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula
July 13, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

Among the many hormone tests performed to determine infertility, there is a blood test that measures the levels of AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) also known as MIS (Mullerian Inhibiting Substance). Why are doctors wanting to know what AMH level you have? AMH levels are tested to help doctors determine ovarian reserve.

AMH is produced directly by the granulosa cells in the ovarian follicles (egg sacs or cysts). AMH is first made in the primary follicles as they advance from the primordial follicle stage. AMH levels continue to rise and AMH production is highest in preantral and small antral stages (less than 4mm diameter) of development. Past this point of growth AMH levels decrease and eventually stops as the follicle continues to grow. Follicles over 8mm diameter produce almost no AMH.

A woman’s body contains millions of follicles at birth, but over time the number of follicles may decline. Doctors use this test to measure the amount of growing follicles in the ovaries. Women with low levels of AMH indicate low levels of follicles and produce lower levels of immature eggs. It is very normal for an older woman to have a lower AMH level, because it is a known fact that both the health of the follicles and the number of follicles declines over time.

Women with many small follicles, typical in women with PCOS, usually have higher levels of AMH. A test result of high AMH may indicate PCOS and is also used to determine excessive or poor response to ovarian hyperstimulation (hCG trigger shot/IVF preparation).

Low levels of AMH in women under the age of 40 may also indicate Premature Ovarian Failure. Premature Ovarian Failure (POF) is also known as Ovarian Hypofunction and is defined as a loss of normal ovarian function before the age of 40.

Anti-Mullerian Hormone Test Results = Chance of Conception
Doctors use this test result to determine if you are a good candidate for IVF. It may help them to determine if they should go forward with IVF or not. It may also be used to determine if you may be able to conceive naturally on your own.

I am never one to take a test result that sounds negative and allow it to define my life. If you have a low AMH level, there is still a chance you will go on to have a baby! No one can know for sure if you will have a child or not. You can choose to have a positive outlook. It is important to realize that this type of test is relatively new and not completely understood by the doctors themselves. Do not worry about the cut off values of the above table, these are general guidelines. For example, the difference between a 0.6 and a 0.7 ng/ml test result puts a woman in a “different range” in this table, but there is very little difference in her fertility potential.

Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Richard Sherbahn shares my sentiments. He says, “There are some problems involved with interpretation of AMH hormone levels. Because the test has not been in routine use for many years, the levels considered to be “normal” are not yet clarified and agreed on by all experts. The table… has AMH interpretation guidelines from the fertility literature and from our experience. Do not get carried away with the cutoff values shown here… In reality, it is a continuum – and not something that categorizes well.”

There are other tests that can be used in combination with the AMH test to help determine if in fact ovarian reserve may be low. According to the studies I am going to share below, the word reserve in relation to the ovaries may become obsolete in the future.

Research Shows Human Females Produce Eggs Throughout Their Reproductive Years

It is extremely important to protect your egg count and health now. It is possible to increase the health of your eggs, which may help protect egg die off, which may help to sustain egg count.

Studies in mice have shown that female mammals can produce egg cells throughout life. The studies showed that follicles may not originate in the ovaries themselves, but within the bone marrow. In 2007, the Journal of Clinical Oncology reported that scientists of the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) gave mice with diminished ovarian reserve bone marrow transplants and they began producing follicles once again. These studies are hopeful for the future of infertility, especially POF.

A follow-up study led by Jonathan Tilly, PhD, director of the Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology in the MGH Vincent Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology pointed out, “The discovery of oocyte precursor cells in adult human ovaries, coupled with the fact that these cells share the same characteristic features of their mouse counterparts that produce fully functional eggs, opens the door for development of unprecedented technologies to overcome infertility in women and perhaps even delay the timing of ovarian failure.”

These follow-up studies give hope for the future of female infertility, as well as how to treat it. While bone marrow and/or blood transfusions used to restore follicle production is not currently being practiced, the advancement of the this technology over the years is exciting and hopeful!

How Does Egg Health and Count Decline?
AMH levels are not thought to determine the quality of the eggs, which is good. So how can someone with a low AMH level increase the amount of follicles they have or support the health in maintaining the ones you currently have?

As we age, the health of our eggs is affected by environmental toxins, poor food choices, circulation, free-radicals, stress, hormonal balance, illness, injury, genetic factors, autoimmune disorders, etc. It is very normal for the health of our cells to decline as we age, but we can also work to protect and support long-term health, which includes our egg health. To learn the full scope of the best ways to improve egg health naturally please read over our complete Increase Egg Health Guide because increasing egg health may help you to sustain the follicles you currently have. Supporting overall health will also help to support egg production over time because the health of the body directly impacts reproductive health.

Dr. Kimberley Langdon Cull’s Contribution:

After controlling for both age and egg yield in a recent clinical trial conducted by Thomas Brodin, MD and colleagues from the Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Sweden, they found that “AMH was independently significant for both a higher pregnancy rate and live-birth rate.” Translated – the higher the AMH level, the higher both the chance of pregnancy and a live birth.

The results are especially important for women with polycystic ovaries, which is associated with ovulation problems. “Our data suggests women who have polycystic ovaries are likely to be good candidates for IVF.” Along with high AMH levels, this group tends to have a significant supply of eggs remaining in the ovaries.”

References

  • Sherbahn, R. (12/17/2018). Anti-Mullerian Hormone Testing of Ovarian Reserve. Retrieved from: http://www.advancedfertility.com/amh-fertility-test.htm
  • Powell, A. (2005). MGH researchers track egg cell production to marrow. Harvard University Gazett. Retrieved from: http://www.news.harvard.edu/gazette/2005/08.25/99-eggs.html
  • Massachusetts General Hospital. (Feb. 26, 2012). Egg-Producing Stem Cells Isolated from Adult Human Ovaries Science Daily Retrieved from: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/02/120226153641.htm
  • Brodin, T., Hadziosmanovic, N., Berglund, L., Olovsson, M. and Holte, J. (01 March 2013). AntimΓΌllerian Hormone Levels Are Strongly Associated With Live-Birth Rates After Assisted Reproduction. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 98, Issue 3, 1 March 2013, Pages 1107–1114, https://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2012-3676. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/98/3/1107/2536697

Β« Previous Post
8 Things about Infertility: A Man’s Perspective
Next Post Β»
Top 10 Causes of Infertility

About the Author

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula

Practicing natural health and herbalism for over 18 years, Dalene received her training and herbal certification under the guidance of Lynn Albers at Yarmony Mt. Herbal College in Colorado in 2000. She went on to become a Certified Birth Doula at Birthingway College of Midwifery in Portland, Oregon in 2007. As a Birth Doula, Dalene has helped to bring many new lives in to this world. Dalene has written 280+ fertility articles and with her vast array of herbal and holistic healing knowledge has helped 1000's of women on their journey to Motherhood.

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 30

Open
It's better to start today rather than wait until tomorrow...

Wondering how to get started? 

You have a couple of options πŸ‘‡πŸ½

➑️ Type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the steps you can take to support your fertility cycle. 

➑️ Check out my website and follow one of my hundreds of guides. 

➑️ Book a consultation and have a custom fertility program created for you.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 30

Open
The Drop Cycle Methodβ„’ Program includes:

➑️ Drop Cycle Methodβ„’ Workshop: Led by Hethir Rodriguez, this in-depth, step-by-step workshop teaches you the fundamentals of self-acupressure and aromatherapy for fertility.

➑️ Fertilica Acu-Penβ„’: Effortlessly perform self-acupressure with this innovative tool, featuring two interchangeable heads for precision and comfort.

➑️ Radiant Wombβ„’ Essential Oil Blend: Specially designed for the follicular phase (the first two weeks of your cycle), this therapeutic blend encourages a calming mood, promotes relaxation, supports estrogen balance, and increases circulation to the uterus and ovaries, nurturing a healthy uterine lining.

➑️ Calm Wombβ„’ Essential Oil Blend: Ideal for the luteal phase (generally the last two weeks of the cycle), this comforting and supportive blend helps to bring a sense of tranquility and well-being during this important phase of your cycle.

➑️ FertiliClearβ„’ Essential Oil Blend: Formulated to support cleansing and detoxification while reducing inflammation within the reproductive system, this blend stimulates liver function, promotes detoxification, encourages the reduction of inflammation, and supports hormone health and balance. Use daily, all month long. If you are actively TTC, discontinue use after ovulation.

➑️ Instruction Cards for the Drop Cycle Method Routine: Easily locate and stimulate the correct acupressure points with these informative cards, featuring detailed instructions for each of the four Drop Cycle Method routines: Follicular Phase, Luteal Phase, Menstrual Phase, and Cleansing Phase.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 30

Open
Womb Care Therapeutic Castor oil kit is a powerful tool that includes a special blend of organic castor oil and organic therapeutic essential oils designed to enhance circulation, promote detoxification and support healing wherever it is applied.

The Womb Care Castor oil Kit is a natural and effective solution for promoting reproductive health and easing pelvic discomfort in women. 

Womb Care Castor Oil Packs are a simple, yet powerful, natural therapy that involves applying essential oil infused castor oil to a cotton flannel and placing it on the skin. The pack is then covered with our wrap. While wearing the wrap, the properties in the castor oil are absorbed and used by the body to increase circulation and promote detoxification, while nourishing the skin and underlying tissues.

If you're looking for a natural way to enhance circulation, promote detoxification, and support reproductive health, Womb Careβ„’ Therapeutic Castor Oil Packs help to cleanse the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about Womb Care Therapeutic Castor Oil Packs for fertility type PACK in the comments below and I will send you a link to my workshop.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 29

Open
Here is how to prepare you Womb Care Castor Oil Pack for the first time. 

Womb Care Wraps make regular castor oil packs soooo easy. 

πŸ‘‰ If you’d like to learn more about Womb Care Castor Oil Packs and how to use them for supporting reproductive health type β€œPACK” in the comments and I’ll send you a link to my Castor Oil Packs Introduction.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 28

Open
Designed to help you experience:

Regular cycles and overcome:
➑️ Lack of ovulation
➑️ Short/Long luteal or follicular phase
➑️ Cycles longer than 35 days

Healthy menstrual cycles and overcome:
➑️ PMS, cramps, mood swings
➑️ Heavy, light, or missing periods
➑️ Spotting

Healthy circulation to reproductive organs and:
➑️ Improve uterine lining and support implantation
➑️ Improve cervical mucus
➑️ Support cleansing and detoxification
➑️ Stress support

For anyone seeking to support general reproductive health as well. πŸŒΏπŸ’•

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 27

Open
Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body using fingers, palms, or specialized tools, instead of using needles as in acupuncture. 

The goal of acupressure is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, restore balance to the body's energy, or Qi, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Self-Acupressure is something you can do for yourself if you understand how to locate the points on your own body. In DCM I teach you which points to use, how to find them on your own body and stimulate them for each stage of your fertility cycle. 

This allows you to have an effective self-care tool that you can apply in the comfort of your own home, at a frequency that allows you to get the most benefit from your efforts. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 26

Open
Like acupressure, reflexology is another method that involves the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. The goal of reflexology is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the body's systems.

According to reflexology theory, specific points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different organs and systems in the body. By applying pressure to these points, reflexology aims to improve circulation, reduce tension and stress, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

In DCM I teach you how to incorporate both self-acupressure and reflexology into a daily routine to support reproductive health during each of the phases by working on the uterus, fallopian tubes, endocrine, thyroid and liver points. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 25

Open
By nourishing our bodies, minds, and spirits, we can create a fertile ground for our fertility to thrive, and a life that is rich with meaning, purpose, and joy.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 25

Open
Like acupressure, reflexology is another method that involves the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. The goal of reflexology is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the body's systems. 

According to reflexology theory, specific points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different organs and systems in the body. By applying pressure to these points, reflexology aims to improve circulation, reduce tension and stress, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

In DCM I teach you how to incorporate both self-acupressure and reflexology into a daily routine to support reproductive health during each of the phases by working on the uterus, fallopian tubes, endocrine, thyroid and liver points. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 25

Open
Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body using fingers, palms, or specialized tools, instead of using needles as in acupuncture.Β 

The goal of acupressure is to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms, restore balance to the body’s energy, or Qi, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Acupressure is something you can do for yourself if you understand how to locate the points on your own body. In DCM I teach you which points to use, how to find them on your own body and stimulate them for each stage of your fertility cycle.Β 

This allows you to have an effective self-care tool that you can apply in the comfort of your own home, at a frequency that allows you to get the most benefit from your efforts.Β 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you’d like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 24

Open
To best support your fertility, having a clear understanding of the monthly fertility cycles can make a big difference. 

Swipe through to learn about the different cycles and which fertility products and therapies are best to use for each cycle. 

Save or share if you found this guide helpful.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 23

Open
My newest Fertility Therapy for fertility support!

Drop Cycle Method is and all-in-one solution combines the ancient wisdom of self-acupressure with the natural healing properties of essential oils to support each stage of your fertility cycle. 

Experience a natural, holistic approach to enhancing your chances of conception and overall well-being.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 23

Open
Introducing my carefully crafted blends designed to support you throughout your fertility journey. Discover the transformative benefits of each blend and find harmony within your cycle.

1️⃣ Radiant Wombβ„’: Embrace the first two weeks of your cycle with this specially formulated blend. Crafted using 100% organic essential oils, it encourages a calming mood, supports hormone balance, and increases circulation to the uterus and ovaries. Nurture a healthy uterine lining and radiate fertility from within.

2️⃣ Calm Wombβ„’: Step into the luteal phase with tranquility and well-being. This 100% organic comforting blend provides a sense of calm and support during this crucial implantation phase. Embrace the journey with a peaceful heart and invite harmony into your womb.

3️⃣ FertiliClearβ„’: Give your reproductive system the cleanse support and detoxification it deserves. With this 100% organic blend, experience the power of stimulating healthy liver function, promoting detoxification, and reducing inflammation. Create a fertile environment by embracing the body's natural ability to heal and rejuvenate.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 22

Open
A healthy lifestyle is not just a path to a better body, but a path to a better life, where we can manifest our deepest desires and wildest dreams.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 22

Open
Here are my favorite 7 essential oils for hormone balance and how to safely use them. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 21

Open
πŸ₯š In the past, a common belief was that the only factor which determines ovarian and egg health was age. 

Based on new studies, we now know that this may not be true. 🀯

There are many factors that can have an impact on the health of the ovaries and eggs including environmental factors, hormones in the diet, and stress, just to name a few.

In addition, having healthy fertility is based on many additional aspects to consider, including:
➑️ Proper circulation
➑️ A healthy fertility cycle
➑️ Balanced hormones
➑️ Healthy eggs

Egg health is one of the cornerstones of healthy fertility. 

The health of your eggs (ova) can affect whether or not fertilization and implantation will occur as well as the viability of a pregnancy.

During the cycle of an egg’s journey towards ovulation, there is a window of opportunity, a period of time, when certain factors can affect the health of the eggs that are preparing for ovulation. ⏳

This journey takes about 90 days. 

The steps you take today will impact the health of your eggs 3 months from now. 

That is why I talk so much about taking a MINIMUM of 90 days to prepare for pregnancy or IVF/IUI. 

πŸ™‚ The good news is that there are steps you can take to help support the health of your eggs. There is too much info to put into this tiny caption but….

Type EGG if you would like me to send you my Egg Health Checklist that takes you through all of the steps to take.πŸ‘‡πŸ‘‡

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 20

Open
Did you know that you can use therapeutic essential oils to help support hormonal health?

Yes you can, but keep a few things in mind...

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Quality of the essential oils
πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Proper use and timing (there are certain essential oils to avoid after ovulation)
πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Proper dilution

πŸ™ŒπŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 20

Open
πŸ‘‹πŸ½ Unlocking the Power of Reflexology for the Endocrine System 🌟

Step into the world of healing self-care as we dive deep into reflexology and its incredible impact on the endocrine system! πŸ‘‹πŸ½βœ¨

1️⃣ Balance: Discover the key reflex points on your hands that correspond to the thyroid, pituitary, and liver. By stimulating these points through reflexology, we can support these vital systems for optimal hormonal health.

2️⃣ Thyroid Harmony: By focusing on the thyroid reflexes, we aim to regulate the thyroid gland's function. Balancing thyroid activity can enhance hormone production and improve overall fertility health.

3️⃣ Pituitary Vitality: The pituitary gland, known as the master gland, plays a crucial role in regulating reproductive hormones. Reflexology can help stimulate the pituitary reflexes, promoting hormonal balance and supporting fertility.

4️⃣ Liver Rejuvenation: The liver is responsible for detoxification and hormone metabolism. Through reflexology, we can enhance liver function, aiding in the removal of toxins and promoting hormonal balance for improved fertility.

5️⃣ Holistic Fertility Support: By supporting the thyroid, pituitary, and liver through reflexology, we create an optimal environment for fertility. Balanced hormone levels, improved detoxification, and enhanced hormonal regulation contribute to overall reproductive well-being.

🌟 Embrace the transformative power of reflexology and unlock the secrets to supporting your endocrine health for improved fertility.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 19

Open
There are so many great ways to use essential oils to help support fertility and reproductive health. The main uses I focus on are:

🌼 Hormone health
🌼 Period health
🌼 Regulate a cycle
🌼 Reduce stress
🌼 Detoxification and regular cleansing

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 19

Open
Harness the power of aromatherapy for fertility!

Swipe to learn more about how to safely use essential oils to help support:
🌼 Hormonal health 
🌸 Regular cycles 
🌺 Peaceful periods 
🌿 and so much more... 

πŸ’§ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility and the Drop Cycle Method type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my introduction video.
Load More...

Footer

  • Programs
  • Products

  • Consultations
  • Contact Us