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FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) – Serum, Mass Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your blood. FSH plays a key role in hormone regulation, particularly in reproductive health for both men and women.

Quick summary

["FSH helps guide fertility and hormone balance, often checked if you’re experiencing issues with ovulation, menopause, or infertility."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1474-6
Short code
FSH 30M p GnRH SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
FSH 30M 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 Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order an FSH test to evaluate reproductive function, diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), assess fertility, or check for hormonal imbalances. It can also help monitor conditions like premature ovarian insufficiency or evaluate symptoms of menopause.

Sample Collection and Preparation

This test requires a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. You may feel slight discomfort, but it’s usually over quickly. No special preparation is needed unless your doctor instructs otherwise.

What to Expect After the Test

After your blood is drawn, you can return to your normal activities. Results may take a few days to weeks to process, depending on your lab. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you during a follow-up visit.

Common Reasons for Testing

FSH is often checked when symptoms like irregular periods, difficulty conceiving, low libido, or early signs of menopause appear. It may also be used to monitor hormone therapy or screen for genetic conditions affecting hormone production.

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 Implications

Short name

FSH Level

Frequently asked questions

What Does an Elevated or Low FSH Level Mean?
Elevated FSH levels may indicate conditions like premature ovarian failure, menopause, or certain genetic disorders. Low FSH could suggest issues with pituitary function, hypothyroidism, or other hormonal imbalances.
How Does FSH Relate to Fertility?
FSH is essential for follicle development in women and sperm production in men. Abnormal levels can affect fertility and may require further evaluation or treatment options like hormone therapy or assisted reproductive technologies.
When Should I Follow Up with My Doctor?
If your FSH test results are outside the expected range, discuss them with your doctor. They may recommend additional tests, like a thyroid function panel or further reproductive health evaluations, based on your symptoms and medical history.
  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