What is AMH?
The link between AMH, acupuncture and fertility
AMH or Anti-Mullerian Hormone is a substance produced by the ovarian follicles. A laboratory test may be used to assess a woman’s ovarian reserve or egg count. It can also be used to assess a woman’s response to IVF treatment as well as to measure ovarian aging.
Higher AMH values would indicate a normal reserve, while lower values may signify a diminished reserve. This could be due to a number of reasons including:
- Early menopause
- Age
- Your DNA
- Autoimmune conditions
- Endometriosis or ovarian cysts
While the AMH test is a good indicator of your ovarian reserve, it only indicates your levels as at the time of the actual test, each month will have different results, but lower AMH it could be a sing of imbalance in patients life, could be due to stress, environmental toxins. AMH results cannot predict the possibility of you falling pregnant in the future. It cannot be used to predict the success of any IVF treatments either. High AMH need to be taken into consideration during IVF treatment as it can cause Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS).
According to traditional Chinese medicine, low AMH levels are indicative of low kidney yin energy which is needed to produce good, fertile eggs. There are a number of factors to consider, one of those being that fertility declines with age. An acupuncturist would therefore aim to promote kidney yin energy in order to stimulate blood flow to the uterus.
While the efficacy alternative therapy may not be scientifically proven, the results often speak for themselves. Acupuncture is often a last resort for many; an alternative option. It is usually something we would turn to after all conventional options have been exhausted, and normally results in a new, preferred method of therapy. Acupuncturists specializing in gynaecology and obstetrics may have just proven the effectiveness of this method of treatment. Testimonials from around the globe have been very positive. There have been reports of regulation of menstrual cycles with reduced pain, pregnancy without IVF treatment, and the successful prevention of miscarriages.
“I cannot speak highly enough of Karolina I truly believe that my second baby wouldn’t be here without her help. Not only is she professional and extremely knowledgeable but she is so friendly and caring too. I went to Karolina following two miscarriages and issues with conceiving and within twelve weeks of my first acupuncture session I was pregnant, and my baby is now 10 weeks old. Thank you Karolina I will be forever grateful to you x”
The World Health organization has recognized the benefits and efficacy of acupuncture in a number of conditions, and state that when done correctly, is a safe method of treatment with very few side effects. They do, however, also recommended that patients use the services of a conventional health care provider before seeking out alternative therapy.
If you would like more information about how acupuncture could help you please contact me.
