Does anti-Mullerian hormone levels impact live birth rate after modified natural IVF?

This study investigated if anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) can predict pregnancy outcomes after modified natural in vitro fertilization (mnIVF).

They found that there was no link between AMH levels and live birth rate (LBR) after mnIVF.

In vitro fertilization (IVF) involves fertilizing an egg and sperm in a laboratory setting. The fertilized embryo is then transferred to the uterus. Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) is commonly used to retrieve eggs from the ovaries. COH involves taking drugs to stimulate the release of eggs. Some women with a low ovarian reserve (egg reserve) may not respond to COH. Modified natural IVF (mnIVF) is another option. 

MnIVF involves harvesting eggs during a natural ovulation cycle. Ovulation is stimulated with human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). MnIVF is a milder protocol as it uses lower drug doses than COH. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a serious side effect of COH but is not observed after mnIVF. Some studies suggest that live birth rates (LBR) are lower after mnIVF compared to COH. Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is an indicator of the ovarian reserve. It is unclear if AMH levels are associated with LBR after mnIVF.

This study included 638 women seeking IVF. All women underwent mnIVF. Patients were grouped according to AMH levels. AMH was measured on Day 2 and 5 of the mnIVF cycle. The antral follicle count (AFC, number of eggs) was measured. The main outcome was the LBR. Other outcomes included egg retrieval rate (ERR), embryo transfer (ET) and clinical pregnancy rate (CPR).

The overall CPR was 15.7% and the LBR was 13.3%. LBR rates were similar in each AMH group. LBR was 11.6%, 12.4% and 17% for low, mid and high AMH. The level of AMH was not associated with any differences in ERR, ET or CPR. 

The authors concluded that there was no link between AMH levels and pregnancy outcomes after mnIVF.

This was a retrospective analysis, meaning it was based on medical records. A full patient history was not available. More investigation is needed. 

If you have any concerns regarding infertility please consult with your physician.