Inhibin A (serum/plasma)
This test measures the levels of inhibin A, a hormone produced by the ovaries in women and the testes in men. It helps assess reproductive health, particularly fertility and ovarian function in women.
["Inhibin A can provide insights into ovarian reserve and reproductive health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36904-1
- Short code
- Inhibin A adj MoM SerPl
- Synonyms
- Inhibin A adj MoM SerPl
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 healthcare provider may order an inhibin A test to evaluate ovarian function, especially in women undergoing fertility treatments, assessing ovarian reserve, or diagnosing conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It may also be used in men to investigate infertility or hormonal imbalances.
What does the test involve?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the serum or plasma for testing. The test measures the concentration of inhibin A in your blood.
What do results mean?
Higher levels of inhibin A can sometimes indicate normal ovarian function or certain ovarian conditions. Lower levels may suggest reduced ovarian reserve or other reproductive health concerns. Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your specific situation and medical history.
How is this test prepared?
No special preparation is typically required. However, you may be asked to avoid certain medications or activities that could affect test results, depending on your individual circumstances. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Inhibin A is primarily used in reproductive medicine. Elevated levels can be associated with normal ovarian function or certain ovarian cysts, while lower levels may indicate diminished ovarian reserve, which is important for women planning to conceive or undergoing fertility treatments. In men, it may help assess hormonal balance related to fertility.
Short name
Inhibin A
Frequently asked questions
What does a high inhibin A level mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect inhibin A 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