In this episode of The Hormone Genius, we are joined by expert OB/GYN Kristina Pakiz, founder of Vivify Women’s Health and Fertility, for an honest, evidence-based conversation about fertility testing, specifically AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone), and what it does and does not tell women about their ability to conceive naturally. Dr. Pakiz brings years of clinical experience caring for women across the reproductive lifespan, with a special focus on restorative, patient-centered fertility care. Her approach emphasizes education, individualized evaluation, and empowering women with accurate information rather than fear-based lab interpretations. What Is AMH? AMH is a hormone produced by the granulosa cells of small, developing follicles in the ovaries. Clinically, it is often described as a marker of ovarian reserve, meaning it gives an estimate of how many recruitable follicles remain—not how well those eggs function, and not whether a woman can conceive naturally. Because AMH levels tend to decline with age, they are frequently used in fertility clinics to help predict response to ovarian stimulation in assisted reproductive technologies like IVF. Why AMH Is Not a Good Marker of Natural Fertility One of the most important takeaways from this episode is that AMH is often misunderstood and over-applied, especially in younger women. Dr. Pakiz explains that: AMH does not predict whether a woman can get pregnant naturally Women with low AMH can and do conceive spontaneously Women with high AMH may still struggle with ovulation, cycle irregularity, or other fertility barriers AMH does not assess egg quality, ovulation timing, uterine health, cervical mucus, or hormonal balance In other words, AMH reflects quantity, not function, and fertility depends on far more than follicle count. The Harm of Over-Interpreting AMH Dr. Pakiz also addresses the emotional and clinical harm that can occur when AMH is presented as a “fertility score.” Many women are told they are “running out of time” or that pregnancy is unlikely based on AMH alone, messages that are often inaccurate and unnecessarily distressing. Dr. Pakiz describes the alternative of NaproTechnology/Restorative Reproductive Medicine. Exciting NEWS!!! The Fertile Hive is a Buzzing Community designed for women interested in boosting their natural fertility through restored health. The infertility journey requires a guide whose knowledge and expertise can cut through the noise and provide clarity. Dr. Kristina Pakiz and Naomi Davis, PA-C provide this guidance through education. Women are empowered to be "the Queen of their own fertility", and the community provides the support needed for members to confidently choose their path to healing. The Fertile Hive is the ONLY membership community of its kind- a truly safe space where women with infertility can thrive. We are launching this membership community with a contest! The top 20 contestants win a free membership for a year! Each submission includes a short video clip answering a few simple questions. Submit your entry by January 16, 2026 at thefertilehive.com and look for the Queen Bee. Second, our brand-new Perimenopause Course is officially live. For just $97, women can dive into a simple, science-backed approach to navigating hormonal shifts with clarity, confidence, and peace. A big thank-you to our episode sponsor, We Heart Nutrition, a company we love for clean, effective supplements that support whole-body hormone health. Visit www.weheartnutrition.com and use code GENIUS for 20% off your first order. The information presented in The Hormone Genius Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for actual medical or mental health advice from a doctor, psychologist, or any other medical or mental health professional.