Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) – Serum
This blood test measures the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a key role in regulating the menstrual cycle and sperm production.
["FSH helps assess reproductive health and potential fertility issues in both men and women."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2290-5
- Short code
- FSH/LH SerPl-sRto
- Synonyms
- FSH/LH SerPl-sRto
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order an FSH test to evaluate conditions affecting fertility, such as ovulation disorders in women or low sperm production in men. It can also help diagnose hormonal imbalances, evaluate pituitary gland function, or assess conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or premature ovarian insufficiency.
Who Might Need This Test?
Women may need an FSH test if they’re experiencing irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant, or symptoms of early menopause. Men might have it if they have low sperm counts, infertility, or signs of hormonal issues. It’s also used in monitoring certain cancers or treatments that affect hormone levels.
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 blood draw if your test is part of a larger panel. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare provider will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm, draw a blood sample, and apply pressure to stop any bleeding. The process takes about 5 minutes, and you may feel a slight pinch or discomfort.
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.
High FSH levels may indicate low ovarian reserve in women, early menopause, or conditions like PCOS. In men, elevated FSH can signal low testosterone or testicular dysfunction. Low FSH might suggest pituitary tumors, hypothyroidism, or other hormonal deficiencies. Results help guide treatment for fertility, hormone replacement, or other medical needs.
Short name
FSH (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
What Does an Abnormal Result Mean?
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Can I Take Anything Before or After the 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