Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) in Serum
This test measures the level of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your blood, which plays a key role in hormone regulation, particularly in reproductive health.
["FSH helps balance hormones involved in fertility and sex hormone production."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1469-6
- Short code
- FSH 15M p 100 ug LRH IV SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- FSH 15M p 100 ug LRH IV 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
What Is Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)?
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that helps regulate the reproductive system. In women, it stimulates the ovaries to develop eggs, while in men, it supports sperm production. FSH levels can vary based on age, health conditions, and reproductive status.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Doctors may order an FSH test to evaluate fertility issues, assess hormonal imbalances, diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or check for hormonal disorders in both men and women.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is processed to measure FSH levels using an immunoassay method. Results are typically available within a few days.
What Do Results Mean?
Higher or lower than expected FSH levels can indicate underlying health concerns, such as hormonal imbalances, thyroid issues, or conditions affecting reproductive function. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
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.
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels can provide important clues about reproductive health. Elevated FSH may suggest early menopause, ovarian dysfunction, or conditions like PCOS. In men, low FSH could indicate issues with sperm production or hormonal deficiencies. Your doctor may use these results to guide further testing or treatment plans.
Short name
FSH Serum
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal FSH levels?
How often should I get an FSH test?
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