What happens to inhibin B and AMH levels as ovarian follicles deplete during menopause?

As the ovarian follicles deplete during menopause, inhibin B and Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels decrease. This is primarily because inhibin B is produced by the growing follicles and reflects the functional capacity of the ovaries. As ovarian reserve declines, fewer follicles produce inhibin B, leading to lower levels in circulation.

Similarly, AMH, which is also produced by ovarian follicles, especially the small antral follicles, declines as the total number of follicles diminishes. The decrease in AMH serves as an indicator of the decreasing ovarian reserve. Therefore, the reduction in both inhibin B and AMH levels is a clear marker of the transition towards menopause and the reduced functionality of the ovaries.

Understanding the interplay of these hormones during the menopausal transition is critical for assessing ovarian function and fertility potential, as well as guiding management strategies during this phase of a woman's life.