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FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) – Serum, Quantitative Immunoassay

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

This test measures the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your blood. FSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a key role in reproductive health, including egg and sperm development.

Quick summary

["FSH helps regulate fertility and hormone balance in both men and women."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57099-4
Short code
FSH 1h p GnRH SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
FSH 1h p GnRH SerPl-aCnc
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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend an FSH test to evaluate fertility issues, assess hormone imbalances, diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or check for hormonal changes in menopause or other reproductive disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a glucose or other metabolic study. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to measure FSH levels accurately.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted based on your age, sex, and clinical context. High or low FSH levels can signal underlying health conditions that may require further evaluation, such as ovarian reserve issues in women or hypogonadism in men.

Reference range

Follicular: 3.5-12.5 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

FSH Level

Frequently asked questions

What does an FSH test measure?
An FSH test measures the concentration of follicle-stimulating hormone in your blood. This hormone helps regulate reproductive function in both men and women.
How long does it take to get FSH test results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
Can lifestyle factors affect FSH levels?
Yes, factors like stress, weight fluctuations, certain medications (e.g., birth control, antidepressants), and chronic illnesses (e.g., thyroid disorders) may influence FSH levels. Your provider can help interpret results in the context of your overall health.
  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