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FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) – Serum, Quantitative

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your blood. FSH helps regulate hormone production in both men and women.

Quick summary

["FSH helps manage reproductive health by signaling the ovaries (in women) or testes (in men) to produce other hormones."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12665-6
Short code
FSH sp3 p chal SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
FSH sp3 p chal SerPl-sCnc
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 Is FSH Used For?

FSH levels are often checked to evaluate reproductive function, fertility, and hormone imbalances. In women, it may help diagnose conditions like early menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or ovarian reserve issues. In men, it can assess low testosterone or infertility.

Who Might Need This Test?

Doctors may order an FSH test if you have symptoms like irregular periods (women), low libido or erectile dysfunction (men), or unexplained infertility. It’s also used during fertility evaluations or when monitoring hormone-related treatments.

How Is the Test Done?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You’ll need to fast for 8–12 hours before the test, unless instructed otherwise. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are compared to a general range for your age and sex. High or low FSH levels can signal underlying health concerns, but interpretation depends on your medical history and symptoms.

Reference range

Follicular: 3.5-12.5 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

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

Why did my doctor suggest this test?
Your doctor may recommend it to check reproductive function, fertility, or hormone-related symptoms. It helps assess conditions like PCOS, menopause, or low testosterone.
What do my FSH results mean for my health?
Results are interpreted based on your age, sex, and symptoms. High or low levels may signal reproductive or hormonal concerns, but a doctor will discuss findings with you.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
Yes, fasting for 8–12 hours before the blood draw is usually required unless your doctor says otherwise. Follow their instructions to ensure accurate results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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