This test measures the level of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your blood. FSH is made by your pituitary gland, a small gland located underneath the brain. FSH plays an important role in sexual development and functioning.
In women, FSH helps control the menstrual cycle and stimulates the growth of eggs in the ovaries. FSH levels in women change throughout the menstrual cycle, with the highest levels happening just before an egg is released by the ovary. This is known as ovulation.
In men, FSH helps control the production of sperm. Normally, FSH levels in men do not change very much.
In children, FSH levels are usually low until puberty, when levels begin to rise. In girls, it helps signal the ovaries to make estrogen. In boys, it helps signal the testes to make testosterone.
Too much or too little FSH can cause a variety of problems, including infertility (the inability to get pregnant), menstrual difficulties in women, low sex drive in men, and early or delayed puberty in children.
Other names: follitropin, FSH, follicle-stimulating hormone: serum
For the evaluation of fertility issues, the health of reproductive organs, and pituitary function.
To evaluate early or delayed puberty in children.
Women: If you are experiencing difficulty getting pregnant or have irregular or no menstrual periods.
Men: If your partner cannot get pregnant. Additionally, men should be tested if they have a low sperm count, have low muscle mass, or are experiencing a decrease in sex drive.
Children: If their doctor suspects they have early or delayed puberty.
If you have symptoms indicating pituitary disorder or hypothalamic disorder, your healthcare provider may order this test.
Note: The medical information provided here in this website is for informational purposes only and is not to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
