FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) in Serum/Plasma
This test measures your levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a key hormone involved in reproductive health. It helps assess fertility, hormone balance, and conditions affecting the ovaries or testes.
["FSH levels can indicate whether your reproductive system is functioning normally or if there may be underlying hormonal imbalances."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12669-8
- Short code
- FSH sp7 p chal SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- FSH sp7 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 Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order an FSH test to evaluate fertility issues, diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or check for hormonal imbalances in both men and women. It can also help monitor conditions such as premature ovarian insufficiency or testicular dysfunction.
What Does an FSH Test Measure?
FSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the growth of follicles in the ovaries (in women) or sperm production in the testes (in men). Higher or lower than expected levels may signal problems with hormone regulation.
Sample Collection and Preparation
This test requires a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test, depending on your doctor’s instructions. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but your doctor may advise you to avoid certain medications or activities that could affect results. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
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
Higher-than-normal FSH levels may suggest conditions like early menopause, ovarian dysfunction, or Klinefelter syndrome in men. Lower-than-normal levels could indicate hypogonadism or pituitary disorders. Always discuss results with your doctor for personalized interpretation.
How often should I have an FSH test?
Can lifestyle changes affect FSH levels?
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