FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) with Serum/plasma Specimen, Substance Concentration Measurement
This test measures your levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a key hormone involved in reproductive health. It helps assess fertility, egg production in women, and sperm production in men.
["FSH levels can signal reproductive function or potential hormonal imbalances."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55612-6
- Short code
- FSH sp7 p chal SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- FSH sp7 p 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 evaluate fertility issues, diagnose conditions like premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) in women, or check for hormonal imbalances that could affect reproductive health. It may also be used to monitor conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or to guide treatment decisions for infertility.
Who Might Need This Test?
Women may need an FSH test if they’re experiencing irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant, or symptoms of early menopause. Men might have it if they’re struggling with infertility or unexplained low testosterone levels. Doctors may also recommend it for individuals undergoing fertility treatments.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but your doctor might advise avoiding certain medications or activities that could affect results. For example, some fertility medications can influence hormone levels. Your doctor will provide specific instructions if applicable.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically takes about 10–15 minutes, and you can usually return to your normal activities afterward.
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.
High FSH levels may indicate reduced egg or sperm production, early menopause in women, or conditions like ovarian insufficiency. Low FSH levels could suggest hormonal imbalances, pituitary disorders, or other conditions affecting reproductive hormones. Monitoring FSH helps guide treatment plans for fertility challenges or hormonal disorders.
Short name
FSH Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect FSH test results?
What if my FSH level is outside the expected range?
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