FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) in serum/plasma, mass concentration
This test measures the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your blood. FSH plays a key role in regulating hormone production and reproductive function in both men and women.
["FSH helps guide fertility and hormone balance, often checked during reproductive health evaluations."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 48573-0
- Short code
- FSH D3 SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- FSH D3 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 healthcare provider may order an FSH test to assess reproductive health, diagnose hormonal imbalances, or evaluate conditions like infertility, early menopause, or hormonal disorders. It can also help monitor treatment for conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormone replacement therapy.
Who Might Need This Test?
Common reasons include unexplained infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, symptoms of perimenopause or menopause, low sperm count, or if you’re undergoing fertility treatments. Men may also have it checked for low testosterone or other reproductive health concerns.
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 test if your lab requires it. Bring your medical history and any medications to your appointment.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and typically painless. You may feel a slight pinch, but most people tolerate it well. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
FSH Level
Frequently asked questions
High FSH levels may suggest early menopause, ovarian dysfunction, or conditions like PCOS. Low FSH could indicate hypothyroidism, pituitary disorders, or other hormonal imbalances. Results are often interpreted alongside other tests and symptoms for a full picture.
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will discuss them with you during a follow-up visit.
Yes, factors like stress, poor sleep, obesity, and certain medications (e.g., birth control) can influence hormone levels. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle may support overall reproductive health, but FSH results should always be evaluated by a professional.
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