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FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) – Serum, 24-Hour Urinary Free Cortisol Equivalent

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

This test measures your follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in your blood and evaluates a 24-hour urine sample for cortisol equivalents, which help assess hormone balance, especially in reproductive health or adrenal function.

Quick summary

["FSH and cortisol levels help diagnose hormonal imbalances affecting fertility, adrenal function, or pituitary disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12668-0
Short code
FSH sp6 p chal SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
FSH sp6 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

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like irregular periods, low libido, fatigue, or signs of hormonal disorders. It could also be used to monitor conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), adrenal insufficiency, or pituitary tumors. In men, it may be checked for low testosterone or related issues.

What to Expect Before the Test

For the blood draw, you’ll likely fast for 8–12 hours before your appointment. For the 24-hour urine test, collect all urine for a full day, starting after your first morning urine of the day. Store samples properly and bring them to your appointment in a sealed container.

What the Results Mean

FSH levels vary by sex and life stage. High FSH can signal early menopause, low ovarian reserve, or pituitary issues. Elevated cortisol equivalents may indicate Cushing’s syndrome or adrenal overactivity. Low levels could suggest hormonal deficiencies. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Common Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose

This test supports diagnosing hormonal disorders such as hypogonadism (low testosterone or estrogen), adrenal dysfunction, or pituitary disorders. It may also help assess fertility issues, stress-related cortisol imbalances, or metabolic conditions like PCOS.

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 + Cortisol Profile

Frequently asked questions

What does a high FSH level indicate?
A high FSH level may suggest reduced ovarian or testicular function, early menopause, or pituitary gland issues. In women, it can indicate low ovarian reserve, which may affect fertility. In men, it might signal low testosterone production.
How is the 24-hour urine cortisol test different from a blood cortisol test?
The 24-hour urine cortisol test measures cortisol equivalents over a full day, providing a more comprehensive picture of your cortisol production. Blood cortisol tests check for short-term fluctuations, often at specific times of the day. Urine tests are useful for detecting chronic overproduction (e.g., Cushing’s syndrome).
Can diet or medications affect these test results?
Yes, certain foods, supplements, or medications (e.g., steroids, antidepressants) can influence cortisol levels. Fasting is required for the blood FSH test, but diet may not affect urine cortisol directly unless it alters cortisol metabolism. Always inform your doctor about all medications or supplements you’re taking.
  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