Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Serum
This blood test measures your levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a key role in reproductive health.
["FSH helps regulate egg and sperm production and supports hormone balance in both men and women."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 15067-2
- Short code
- FSH SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- FSH 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 evaluate fertility issues, assess hormone imbalances, diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or check for pituitary gland problems. It can also help monitor conditions like early menopause or certain cancers.
Who Might Need This Test?
Women may need an FSH test if they’re experiencing irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant, or signs of early menopause. Men might have it checked for low testosterone or fertility concerns. Your doctor will determine if this test is appropriate for your situation.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but your doctor may advise fasting for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if the test is part of a larger panel. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to rest after the draw.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to collect a blood sample. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure is quick and painless. The blood 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 indicate early menopause, ovarian dysfunction, or conditions like PCOS. Low FSH could suggest pituitary problems, thyroid issues, or other hormonal imbalances. Always discuss results with your doctor, as they’ll consider your full medical history and symptoms.
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will explain the meaning of your results and any next steps during your follow-up visit.
If your results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend additional tests or treatments to address potential hormonal or reproductive concerns. They’ll work with you to create a plan based on your unique health needs.
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