What are the Causes for Low AMH in Millennials, And How Can Lifestyle Changes Help?

The Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) is a crucial factor in determining a woman’s fertility. Originating from small antral and pre-antral follicles in the ovaries, this glycoprotein hormone aids in follicle differentiation and growth. While women typically start with approximately 100,000 oocytes at puberty, this number dwindles to fewer than 10,000 by the age of 40. If you find yourself grappling with low AMH levels during your child-bearing years, take heart. There are various treatment options. Treatment of low AMH often incorporates lifestyle changes alongside medical interventions. A qualified fertility doctor can help identify the causes of low AMH and recommend appropriate measures. Who is at risk of low AMH levels? Many millennials postpone starting a family for various reasons, such as career advancement, enjoying their youth, dealing with student loans, or searching for the perfect partner. Consequently, they often attempt to conceive after the age of 30, a time when most women’s ovarian reserves have naturally declined. Aside from age, other causes of low AMH include conditions like endometriosis, auto-immune diseases, and genetic factors. Exposure to radiation therapy for cancer can also negatively impact AMH levels. Options for treating low AMH Treatment of low AMH is tailored to each individual’s needs and root causes. Doctors often suggest a holistic approach, emphasising lifestyle changes along with specific vitamins and supplements to boost fertility. Here are some recommendations:

• Adopt a nutritious diet – Fertility experts advise a low-calorie, high-protein diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
• Engage in regular physical activity – Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise daily.
• Embrace mindfulness practices – Relaxation techniques like pranayama and yoga can be highly beneficial.
• Eliminate harmful habits – Steering clear of alcohol and smoking can positively influence fertility.
• Consider supplementation – Coenzyme Q10, vitamin D, fish oil, and folic acid are commonly recommended for the treatment of low AMH. In specific cases, testosterone and DHEA supplements may also be suggested to improve success rates.

Causes of Low AMH in Millennials

1. Age: While millennials are generally younger than women in their forties who face declining fertility, age remains a significant factor. A woman’s ovarian reserve naturally decreases with age, so even in their twenties and early thirties, some women may experience lower AMH levels, which can affect their fertility.
2. Stress: Modern life is often associated with high stress levels. Millennials are no exception, as they deal with demanding careers, financial pressures, and the challenges of striking a work-life balance. Chronic stress can negatively affect fertility by disrupting hormonal balance and the menstrual cycle, potentially leading to lower AMH levels.
3. Unhealthy Diet: Poor dietary habits, such as excessive consumption of processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats, can contribute to obesity and metabolic disturbances. These factors, in turn, can affect ovarian function and lower AMH levels. A diet that lacks essential nutrients can also impact egg quality.
4. Smoking: Despite increased awareness of the health risks, some millennials continue to smoke. Smoking not only harms overall health but also has a detrimental impact on fertility. It can accelerate the depletion of the ovarian reserve and lower AMH levels.
5. Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Some millennials may engage in excessive alcohol consumption, which can negatively affect fertility. It can disrupt hormonal balance, impair egg quality, and contribute to low AMH levels.
6. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a common endocrine disorder that can affect women of reproductive age, including millennials. It is often characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, high androgen levels, and the presence of small cysts on the ovaries. PCOS can lead to hormonal imbalances and reduced AMH levels.
7. Autoimmune Disorders: Certain autoimmune disorders, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and lupus, can impact fertility by affecting the functioning of the ovaries and lowering AMH levels.
8. Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It can lead to inflammation and scarring in the pelvic area, potentially damaging the ovaries and causing a decrease in AMH levels.

Impact of Lifestyle Changes on Low AMH in Millennials Making positive lifestyle changes can play a significant role in improving AMH levels and overall fertility for millennials facing low AMH. Here are ways in which these changes can have a beneficial impact:

1. Stress Reduction: Adopting stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices can help manage the impact of chronic stress on hormonal balance. Reducing stress can contribute to more regular menstrual cycles and healthier egg production.
2. Nutrition: A balanced and nutritious diet is essential for maintaining good reproductive health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats provides the necessary nutrients for optimal ovarian function and egg quality.
3. Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Obesity and being underweight can both affect fertility and lower AMH levels. Achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight through diet and exercise can help improve ovarian function.
4. Quitting Smoking: Quitting smoking is crucial for improving fertility and raising AMH levels. Smoking cessation can halt the accelerated depletion of the ovarian reserve and reduce the negative impact on eggs.
5. Reducing Alcohol Intake: Reducing or eliminating excessive alcohol consumption can help restore hormonal balance and improve overall fertility. Moderation is key when it comes to alcohol consumption.
6. Managing PCOS: For millennials with PCOS, lifestyle changes that include regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage symptoms, regulate menstrual cycles, and potentially improve AMH levels.
7. Autoimmune Disorder Management: Individuals with autoimmune disorders should work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their conditions effectively. Controlling these conditions may help minimize their impact on fertility.
8. Endometriosis Management: If diagnosed with endometriosis, seeking medical treatment and management strategies can help reduce inflammation, scarring, and damage to the ovaries, which can improve AMH levels.
9. Fertility-Promoting Supplements: In some cases, fertility-promoting supplements such as Coenzyme Q10, vitamin D, fish oil, and folic acid may be recommended by healthcare providers to enhance ovarian function and boost AMH levels.

Consulting a Fertility Specialist While lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on low AMH levels and fertility, it’s essential for millennials to consult with a fertility specialist. A specialist can provide a thorough evaluation of your specific situation, conduct necessary tests, and offer tailored guidance on the best course of action. For some individuals with persistently low AMH levels, advanced fertility treatments such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or other assisted reproductive technologies may be recommended to achieve a successful pregnancy. Need expert guidance? If you’re concerned about low AMH levels, let our specialists at Advance Fertility and Gyne Centre help. We’ll identify the causes of low AMH and work with you to formulate the most effective treatment plan, aiming to enhance your overall health and well-being.