Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) Test Information on Australian and New Zealand Fertility Clinic Websites: A Content Analysis

Abstract

Background: The Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) test is promoted to women as a way to find out how long they have left to have children. However, data consistently show the test is a poor predictor of natural fertility potential for an individual woman. As fertility clinic websites are often a primary source of information for reproductive information, it is essential the information provided is accurate and reflects the available evidence. Aim: To systematically record and categorise information about the AMH test found on Australian and New Zealand fertility clinic websites. Method: Data were extracted from accredited Australian and New Zealand fertility clinic websites between April and June 2020. Any webpage that mentioned the AMH test, including blogs specifically about the AMH test posted since 2015, were analysed and the content categorised. Results: 25 clinic websites included information about the AMH test. The available information embodied four overarching categories; 1) the utility of the AMH test, 2) who the test is suitable for, 3) possible actions in response to the test, and 4) caveats and limitations of the test. Eight specific statements about the utility of the test were identified, many of which are not supported by evidence (e.g. “a good snapshot of current fertility”). Whilst some websites were transparent regarding the test’s limitations, others mentioned no caveats or included persuasive statements actively promoting the test as empowering for a range of women in different circumstances (e.g. “women who would like to conceive in the future”). Conclusion: The quality of information about the AMH test varied considerably. Several websites had statements about the AMH test that are not supported by evidence. This highlights the need for higher standards for information provided on fertility clinic websites to prevent women being misled to believe the test can reliably predict their current or future fertility.