FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) in Serum or Plasma
This test measures the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your blood. FSH plays a key role in hormone regulation, particularly in reproductive health for both men and women.
["FSH helps manage fertility and hormone balance in your body."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 25651-1
- Short code
- FSH sp8 p chal SerPl IRP2-aCnc
- Synonyms
- FSH sp8 p chal SerPl IRP2-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
- Method
- nd-irp
- 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 Might You Need This Test?
Doctors may order an FSH test to check for hormonal imbalances, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms like irregular periods, infertility, low libido, or early signs of menopause. It can also help diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or evaluate hormonal disorders in men.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure FSH levels. The test is quick and typically done during a routine visit to a healthcare provider.
What to Expect Before or After the Test
There are usually no special preparations needed for this test. You may feel slight discomfort from the needle, but it’s usually over quickly. Afterward, you can resume normal activities, though you might experience mild bruising or swelling at the injection site.
What Are the Possible Results?
FSH levels can vary based on age, gender, and health conditions. Your results will be reviewed by a healthcare provider who will interpret them in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
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.
FSH is crucial for monitoring reproductive function. In women, elevated levels may indicate early menopause or ovarian dysfunction, while low levels could suggest hormonal imbalances or conditions like hypogonadism. In men, abnormal FSH levels might point to issues with sperm production or testosterone regulation. Your doctor will use these results to guide further diagnosis or treatment plans.
Short name
FSH Level
Frequently asked questions
How Often Should I Get This Test?
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal FSH Levels?
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