Finding the right tests…
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Finding the right tests…
Hormonal
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a chemical messenger released by your pituitary gland, and this test measures how much is in your blood. In women, it drives the growth of eggs in the ovaries each month; in men, it supports sperm production in the testes. Doctors order it to investigate irregular or absent periods, infertility in men and women, suspected menopause or perimenopause, and low sperm counts. Because FSH levels move through the menstrual cycle, the timing of the blood draw can matter for women being tested for fertility reasons.
The test measures FSH circulating in your blood. When the ovaries or testes aren't producing enough sex hormones, the pituitary gland responds by releasing more FSH to try to stimulate them, so a high reading often signals that the ovaries or testes themselves aren't responding normally. A low reading points more toward a problem with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus instead.
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) comes from the pituitary gland, a small gland at the base of the brain, and travels through your blood to reach the ovaries or testes. It works together with luteinizing hormone (LH) to control the menstrual cycle in women and sperm production in men.
- Irregular or absent periods - Difficulty conceiving, in women or men - Suspected perimenopause or menopause - Low sperm count or other signs of testicular problems - Suspected pituitary or hypothalamus disorder - Early or delayed puberty in children
A high FSH usually means the ovaries or testes aren't responding to normal signals, so the pituitary is producing extra FSH to compensate. This pattern shows up in conditions like primary ovarian insufficiency, menopause, and some testicular disorders. A low FSH more often points toward the pituitary gland or hypothalamus not sending enough signal in the first place, and in women it can also follow rapid weight loss or heavy exercise.
Because FSH levels shift through the menstrual cycle, your doctor may ask you to schedule the blood draw on a specific cycle day for a fertility work-up.
For a fertility work-up, doctors often prefer testing on specific days early in your cycle, since FSH naturally rises and falls through the month. Ask your doctor which day is right for your situation.
Fasting is generally not required for this test. Confirm with your doctor or the centre when you book, since instructions can vary by lab.
A high FSH can suggest the ovaries or testes aren't responding normally, which may reduce the chance of natural conception. Your doctor will look at it alongside other hormone tests, like AMH or estradiol, before drawing conclusions.
Yes, FSH typically rises during perimenopause and menopause as the ovaries slow down. Your doctor will consider your age and symptoms alongside the result.
This page is general information about the test, not medical advice. Your own report's reference ranges apply — please discuss your results with your doctor.
In men, FSH testing helps investigate infertility, low sperm count, or suspected problems with the testes or pituitary gland. It's often ordered together with LH and testosterone.
Normal FSH ranges depend heavily on age, sex, and, in women, the day of the menstrual cycle, so there isn't one single number. Your lab report will list the reference range it uses, and ranges vary by lab, so ask your doctor to explain what your result means.
Yes, hormonal contraceptives and some other hormone medicines can change your FSH reading. Tell your doctor about everything you're taking before the test.