Skip to content

Serum or Plasma Substance Concentration for a Specific Hormone (likely Follicle-Stimulating Hormone, FSH) by Immunoassay

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your blood. FSH plays a key role in regulating reproductive function in both men and women.

Quick summary

["FSH helps track fertility, hormone balance, and potential reproductive health issues."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12680-5
Short code
LH sp5 p chal SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
LH sp5 p chal SerPl-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
1.5
Ref high
9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83002
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 Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)?

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that helps regulate the menstrual cycle in women and sperm production in men. It signals the ovaries and testes to grow and release eggs or sperm, respectively. FSH levels can vary depending on age, reproductive status, and health conditions.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order an FSH test to evaluate fertility, diagnose hormonal imbalances, assess ovarian or testicular function, or investigate symptoms like irregular periods, missed periods, or low libido. It can also help monitor conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or menopause.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed using an immunoassay method to measure FSH levels. The test typically requires fasting, but this may vary by provider.

What Do Results Mean?

Results provide a quantitative measure of FSH concentration in your blood. While reference ranges can vary by lab, elevated or low levels may signal underlying health concerns that need further evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Reference range

Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

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.

Clinical Significance: FSH Levels and Health Implications

Short name

FSH (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal FSH Levels?
Abnormally high FSH levels may be linked to conditions like premature ovarian insufficiency, ovarian failure, or certain genetic disorders. Low FSH levels could indicate issues with the pituitary gland, hypothalamus, or other hormonal imbalances. Always discuss results with your doctor for personalized interpretation.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
The frequency of FSH testing depends on your medical history, symptoms, and treatment plan. Your healthcare provider will determine the best timing based on your specific needs, such as monitoring fertility treatments or evaluating reproductive health.
Can Diet or Lifestyle Affect FSH Levels?
While diet and lifestyle factors like stress, weight, and smoking can influence overall hormone balance, they do not directly alter FSH levels. However, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and avoiding smoking may support reproductive health and hormone regulation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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