FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) – Serum, Mass Concentration
This blood test measures the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your serum. FSH plays a key role in hormone regulation, particularly in reproductive health for both men and women.
["FSH helps balance hormone production and supports fertility in both genders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1467-0
- Short code
- FSH 1.5h p GnRH SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- FSH 1.5h p GnRH SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 3.5
- Ref high
- 12.5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 83001
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order an FSH test to check for hormonal imbalances, evaluate fertility issues, diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women, or assess hormone-related disorders in men. It can also help monitor conditions like premature ovarian insufficiency or testicular dysfunction.
Who Typically Needs This Test?
Women may need an FSH test during ovulation tracking, fertility evaluations, or if they suspect hormonal imbalances affecting menstruation or fertility. Men might have it checked for low testosterone or unexplained infertility.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but your provider may ask you to avoid certain medications or timing your cycle if the test relates to reproductive health. Bring any relevant medical history or recent symptoms.
What Happens During the Test?
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The process is quick and usually painless. You may feel a slight pinch, but it shouldn’t last long.
Reference range
Follicular: 3.5-12.5 mIU/mLN/A
For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High or low FSH levels can signal underlying health issues. Elevated FSH in women may indicate early menopause or ovarian dysfunction, while elevated levels in men could suggest low testosterone or other hormonal problems. Your results will be interpreted in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Short name
FSH Level
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal FSH level mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes affect FSH levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy