FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) with LH (Luteinizing Hormone) ratio
This test measures the ratio of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to luteinizing hormone (LH) in your blood. These hormones play key roles in reproductive health, particularly in women and men.
["Understanding your FSH/LH ratio helps assess fertility and hormone balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 101905-8
- Short code
- FSH+LH p leuprolide stm Pnl Ser
- Synonyms
- FSH+LH p leuprolide stm Pnl Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 1.5
- Ref high
- 9
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 83002
- 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 Is Done
Doctors may order an FSH/LH ratio test to evaluate reproductive function, diagnose hormonal imbalances, or check for conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), early menopause, or low sperm production. It can also be used in fertility planning or when symptoms like irregular periods, infertility, or low libido are present.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
How the Results Are Interpreted
The results compare your FSH and LH levels to determine their ratio. While exact reference ranges vary by lab, a higher FSH/LH ratio may suggest conditions like early menopause or ovarian dysfunction, while lower ratios could indicate hormonal imbalances or other reproductive issues.
Common Conditions Linked to FSH/LH Ratio
Abnormal FSH/LH ratios are often associated with fertility problems, hormonal disorders, or aging-related changes. For example, elevated FSH may signal declining ovarian reserve in women, while elevated LH could indicate conditions like PCOS or adrenal issues.
Reference range
Follicular: 1.5-9.0 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: An FSH/LH ratio helps identify reproductive health concerns by providing insight into hormone interactions. For instance, a high FSH/LH ratio may indicate premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) in women or reduced sperm production in men, while low ratios could signal potential hormonal deficiencies or thyroid disorders.
Short name
FSH/LH Ratio
Frequently asked questions
What does an FSH/LH ratio test involve?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes affect FSH/LH levels?
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