FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) – Serum/plasma concentration
This test measures the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone in your blood. FSH plays a key role in regulating fertility and hormone production in both men and women.
["FSH helps balance reproductive health and may indicate hormonal imbalances."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12670-6
- Short code
- FSH sp8 p chal SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- FSH sp8 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
Doctors order FSH tests to evaluate fertility issues, hormone imbalances, or conditions affecting the ovaries (in women) or testes (in men). It may also be checked during evaluations for early menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or unexplained infertility.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if your test includes other fasting-related measurements. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to rest for a short time afterward.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare provider will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm. Blood will be drawn into a tube, and you may feel a brief pinch. The process usually takes a few minutes.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted based on your age, sex, and medical history. High or low FSH levels can signal conditions like ovarian reserve depletion, pituitary disorders, or genetic factors affecting hormone production. Your doctor will discuss findings with you.
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 levels are critical for diagnosing fertility problems, assessing ovarian function in women, and evaluating conditions like hypogonadism (low hormone production). In men, elevated FSH may indicate testicular dysfunction, while low levels could suggest hyperfunction of the pituitary gland or other hormonal imbalances.
Short name
FSH Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my FSH test results?
Can diet or medications affect my FSH test?
Is there anything I should avoid before the test?
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