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FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) in Serum – Confirmatory Test

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

This test measures your levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your blood, which plays a key role in hormone regulation, particularly in women’s menstrual cycles and men’s sperm production.

Quick summary

["FSH helps assess reproductive health and potential fertility issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
48572-2
Short code
FSH D21 SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
FSH D21 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 this test if you have symptoms like irregular periods, infertility, or signs of early menopause in women, or low sperm production in men. It may also be used to monitor conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormone-related cancers.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before drawing blood. Wear a comfortable shirt for easy access to your arm.

How the Test Works

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

What the Results Mean

Results help determine whether your hormone levels are within expected ranges for your age and sex. Abnormal levels may indicate hormonal imbalances or underlying health conditions.

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’s Role in Health

Short name

FSH Confirmation

Frequently asked questions

What Does My FSH Level Tell Me?
Elevated FSH may signal early menopause, ovarian dysfunction, or conditions like PCOS. Low FSH could suggest pituitary issues, hypothyroidism, or other hormonal disorders. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your provider will decide based on your symptoms, medical history, and treatment needs. Follow-up tests may be scheduled if initial results are abnormal or if monitoring a condition.
Does Diet or Exercise Affect FSH Levels?
Dietary factors like calorie restriction or weight changes can influence FSH, especially in women. Exercise generally supports hormonal balance but may not directly alter FSH levels unless extreme or chronic.
  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