Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) – Serum, Plasma or Whole Blood
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 balance hormones that influence fertility and hormone production in the body."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50484-5
- Short code
- FSH sp8 SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- FSH sp8 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
What Is FSH Used For?
FSH testing is commonly used to evaluate reproductive function, diagnose hormonal imbalances, and assess conditions affecting fertility. In women, it helps check for issues like early menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or ovulation problems. In men, it may be checked for low testosterone or fertility concerns.
Who Might Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend an FSH test if you experience irregular periods, infertility, low libido, or symptoms like hot flashes. It may also be part of routine testing for hormonal disorders or before fertility treatments.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure FSH levels. Results are compared to reference ranges that can vary slightly by lab.
What Do My Results Mean?
Higher or lower than expected FSH levels can signal underlying health conditions. For example, elevated FSH in women may indicate early menopause or ovarian dysfunction, while elevated levels in men might suggest low testosterone. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your medical history 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.
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is critical for reproductive health. In women, it stimulates follicle development in the ovaries and helps regulate the menstrual cycle. In men, it supports sperm production. Abnormal FSH levels can indicate hormonal imbalances, fertility issues, or other conditions affecting hormone function.
Short name
FSH Level
Frequently asked questions
Why might my FSH levels be checked during pregnancy?
What are the typical reference ranges for FSH?
Can lifestyle factors, like diet or exercise, 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