The association between circulating levels of antimüllerian hormone and follicle number, androgens, and menstrual cycle characteristics in young women

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the association between serum antimüllerian hormone (AMH) and other reproductive parameters in young women.

Design: Cross-sectional study.

Setting: University hospital.

Patient(s): Population-based cohort of 256 women: 180 were users and 76 were nonusers of hormonal contraceptives.

Intervention(s): None.

Main outcome measure(s): Antral follicles, androgens, age at menarche, and duration and regularity of menstrual cycle.

Result(s): AMH levels were lower among users of hormonal contraceptives compared to nonusers. Among nonusers, women with AMH levels in the upper tertile had 55% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 22%-99%) higher levels of total T and 8% (95% CI = 2%-15%) longer menstrual cycles than women with AMH levels in the lower tertile. An increase of 1 ng/mL in AMH was associated with 45% (95% CI = 6%-97%) higher prevalence of irregular menstrual cycles. These associations were not seen among users of hormonal contraceptives. A strong relationship between AMH and follicle number was found in both users and nonusers.

Conclusion(s): AMH measurements were found to be applicable in evaluation of the reproductive function of young women. However, there may be differences in the way that serum AMH levels can be interpreted depending on whether the woman uses hormonal contraceptives or not.