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FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) in Serum/Plasma

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
32586-0
Short code
FSH 20M p chal SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
FSH 20M p chal 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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order an FSH test to evaluate reproductive function, diagnose fertility issues, or check for hormonal imbalances. It can also help assess conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), menopause, or hypogonadism. In men, it may be used to check for low testosterone or other reproductive disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but your doctor might advise avoiding certain medications or activities that could affect hormone levels. For example, some women may be asked to avoid ovulation-inducing medications or to time the test around their menstrual cycle if evaluating reproductive health.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch or discomfort, but it typically only takes a few minutes. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are the Possible Results?

Results are interpreted based on your age, sex, and medical history. High or low FSH levels can indicate different conditions, so your doctor will discuss the meaning of your specific results with you.

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.

Clinical Significance: FSH Levels and Health

Short name

FSH Level

Frequently asked questions

What Does an Elevated FSH Level Mean?
Elevated FSH levels may suggest conditions like early menopause, ovarian insufficiency, or certain genetic disorders. In men, it could indicate low testosterone or hypogonadism. Your doctor will consider your overall health and symptoms to determine the cause.
What Does a Low FSH Level Mean?
Low FSH levels might be seen in conditions like pituitary tumors, hypopituitarism, or certain genetic disorders that affect hormone production. In women, it could be related to conditions like hyperprolactinemia or certain medications.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
The frequency of FSH testing depends on your medical needs. Your doctor may recommend it during routine check-ups, before fertility treatments, or if you have symptoms like irregular periods, low libido, or infertility.
  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