FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) – Serum, Mass Concentration
This blood test measures the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your serum. FSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a key role in reproductive health, including egg and sperm development.
["FSH helps regulate fertility and hormone balance in both men and women."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1477-9
- Short code
- FSH BS SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- FSH BS 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, assess fertility issues, diagnose hormonal imbalances, or monitor conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), menopause, or hypogonadism. It can also help determine if you have an underactive or overactive pituitary gland.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your lab requires it. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to sit or lie down during the blood draw for comfort. Avoid strenuous activity before the test.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare provider will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch or discomfort, but the process is quick. Blood is collected into a tube, and you can resume normal activities afterward. The test itself takes only a few minutes.
What Are the Possible Results?
Results are interpreted based on your age, sex, and medical history. High or low FSH levels may indicate underlying conditions that require further evaluation by your doctor.
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) is critical for reproductive health. In women, elevated FSH often signals early menopause or ovarian dysfunction, while low levels may suggest pituitary issues or hormonal deficiencies. In men, abnormal FSH can indicate low testosterone or sperm production problems. Your doctor will use these results alongside other tests and symptoms to guide diagnosis and treatment.
Short name
FSH Serum
Frequently asked questions
What Does an Elevated FSH Level Mean?
What Does a Low FSH Level Mean?
How Often Should I Get This Test?
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