Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) in Serum
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, particularly in regulating egg and sperm production.
["FSH helps assess fertility and hormone balance in both men and women."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 100794-7
- Short code
- FSH Fld-aCnc
- Synonyms
- FSH Fld-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
What Is FSH Used For?
Doctors may order an FSH test to evaluate fertility issues, diagnose hormonal imbalances, or check for conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women. In men, it can help identify problems with testosterone production or low sperm counts. It may also be used to monitor treatment for infertility or hormone-related disorders.
Who Might Need an FSH Test?
Women may need an FSH test if they’re experiencing irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant, early menopause signs, or symptoms of perimenopause. Men might have it if they have low libido, erectile dysfunction, or unexplained infertility. Your doctor may also recommend it if you’re undergoing fertility treatments.
How Is the Test Done?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm, usually in a doctor’s office or lab. You’ll need to fast for 8–12 hours before the test, as some results depend on your hormone levels during this period. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
What Do My Results Mean?
Results alone don’t provide a diagnosis—they’re part of a larger picture. High FSH levels may suggest early menopause, ovarian failure, or other hormonal disorders, while low levels could indicate pituitary issues or other conditions. Your doctor will review your results with your full medical history and other test results.
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.
Clinical Significance: FSH plays a critical role in reproductive function. Elevated levels in women often signal declining ovarian reserve or perimenopause, while persistently low levels may indicate pituitary dysfunction or other hormonal imbalances. In men, abnormal FSH can signal issues with sperm production or testosterone regulation, potentially affecting fertility and overall health.
Short name
FSH Level
Frequently asked questions
Why might my FSH levels be checked regularly if I’m undergoing fertility treatments?
Can lifestyle factors, like diet or exercise, affect my FSH levels?
What if my FSH test results are outside the typical range?
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