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Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) with triple bolus stimulation testing using serum/plasma samples

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures how your body responds to hormone stimulation, often used to evaluate fertility and ovarian function in women.

Quick summary

["Assesses ovarian reserve and hormone response to controlled stimulation."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
40360-0
Short code
FSH 15M p Triple Bolus SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
FSH 15M p Triple Bolus SerPl-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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 This Test Is Done

Your doctor may recommend this test if you’re investigating infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, or other reproductive health concerns. It helps determine whether your ovaries are responding normally to hormonal signals.

How the Test Works

A controlled dose of hormones is administered to trigger multiple follicle development. Blood samples are drawn at set intervals to measure FSH levels, which reflect how effectively your body responds to stimulation.

Sample Collection Process

Blood samples are taken from a vein in your arm at different times—typically before and after hormone administration—to track hormone levels accurately. This process may take a few hours.

Preparation and Restrictions

No special preparation is needed, but avoid strenuous activity or alcohol 24 hours before testing. Follow your doctor’s instructions for timing hormone administration.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated or declining FSH levels post-stimulation can indicate reduced ovarian function, early menopause, or other endocrine disorders. This test helps guide fertility treatments or diagnose underlying hormonal imbalances.

Short name

FSH Stimulation Test (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

What Does This Test Measure?
It evaluates how your body’s natural hormone response compares to a controlled stimulation protocol, providing insight into ovarian sensitivity and reproductive potential.
Will I Feel Any Discomfort?
You may experience mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site, but blood draws are typically quick and painless. Rest assured, your provider will monitor you closely.
How Long Until Results Are Available?
Results are usually available within 1–2 weeks, depending on your lab and doctor’s workflow. Follow-up discussions will clarify interpretations based on your specific health profile.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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