The FSH test measures the level of follicle-stimulating hormone in your blood.
FSH is made by the pituitary gland in the brain and plays an important role in reproduction and sexual development.
In Women:
Stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles (eggs) before ovulation.
Works with luteinizing hormone (LH) to regulate the menstrual cycle.
In Men:
Stimulates the testes to produce sperm.
Irregular or absent menstrual periods
Difficulty getting pregnant (infertility)
Suspected menopause or premature ovarian failure
Evaluation of ovarian function
Low sperm count or infertility
Low sex drive
Delayed or early puberty in boys
(Ranges vary by age, gender, and menstrual cycle phase)
| Group | Normal Range |
|---|---|
| Women (follicular phase) | 3.5 – 12.5 mIU/mL |
| Women (mid-cycle peak) | 4.7 – 21.5 mIU/mL |
| Women (luteal phase) | 1.7 – 7.7 mIU/mL |
| Postmenopausal women | 25.8 – 134.8 mIU/mL |
| Men | 1.5 – 12.4 mIU/mL |
| Children | Varies with puberty stage |
| High FSH | Low FSH |
|---|---|
| Menopause | Pituitary gland problems |
| Ovarian failure | Hypothalamic dysfunction |
| Turner syndrome | Stress, extreme weight loss |
| Testicular failure | Severe illness |
| Certain genetic disorders | Excess estrogen or testosterone |
No fasting required.
For women, testing is often done on day 3 of the menstrual cycle for fertility evaluation.
Avoid hormonal medicines (unless your doctor says otherwise).
If you want, I can also prepare a side-by-side chart of FSH + LH showing how they work together and what abnormal combinations mean.
Same Day*
