Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) - Serum, Pregnancy-Specific
This test measures a form of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) found in your blood during pregnancy. It helps assess reproductive health and monitor certain conditions.
["FSH levels during pregnancy can provide insights into your reproductive system and pregnancy progress."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50478-7
- Short code
- FSH sp2 SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- FSH sp2 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
What This Test Measures
The test detects a pregnancy-specific variant of FSH, which may be present in your bloodstream during early pregnancy. This variant is distinct from the standard FSH hormone typically measured in non-pregnant individuals. The method used is likely an immunoassay, which identifies specific proteins in your serum.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy, particularly in early stages, to evaluate reproductive health or screen for potential conditions. It may also be used in research or specialized clinical settings.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is collected in a special tube and sent to the lab for analysis. This test uses serum, which is the liquid part of blood after clotting occurs.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed for this test. You may have some mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site, but this usually resolves quickly. Avoid alcohol or strenuous activity before the blood draw if advised by your provider.
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
Short name
FSH (pregnancy-specific)
Frequently asked questions
This test is primarily used in research or specialized clinical contexts to study reproductive biology or pregnancy-related conditions. Elevated or altered levels may indicate specific reproductive health concerns or help monitor certain pregnancy-related markers.
How often will I need this test?
What does a high or low result mean?
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