FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) – Serum or Plasma Level
This test measures the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone in your blood. FSH plays a key role in hormone regulation, particularly in reproductive health for both men and women.
["FSH helps balance reproductive hormones and supports fertility."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58947-3
- Short code
- FSH pre chal SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- FSH pre chal 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 doctor may order an FSH test to check for hormonal imbalances, evaluate fertility issues, diagnose conditions affecting hormone production, or monitor treatment for hormone-related disorders. It’s often used in women to assess ovulation, menopause, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and in men to evaluate low testosterone or infertility.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if your lab requires it. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to rest for a few minutes afterward, as you might feel lightheaded.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare provider will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm. A small amount of blood will be collected into a tube. The process usually takes a few minutes, and you may experience mild discomfort or bruising afterward.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are interpreted by your doctor based on your age, sex, and medical history. High or low FSH levels can signal underlying health conditions, but they don’t provide a diagnosis alone.
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.
Elevated FSH levels may indicate early menopause, ovarian dysfunction, or conditions like PCOS in women, while low levels could suggest hormonal imbalances, pituitary disorders, or certain genetic conditions. In men, abnormal FSH can signal low testosterone or infertility. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Short name
FSH Level
Frequently asked questions
What Does an Abnormal FSH Level Mean?
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Can I Take Anything Before 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