FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone). Prices, Reviews, Ratings
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by basophil cells in the anterior pituitary gland.
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by basophil cells in the anterior pituitary gland.
General Information
FSH is a gonadotropic glycoprotein hormone. From birth to puberty, its concentration is minimal, rising during puberty as gonads develop.
Follitropin release occurs periodically every 1-4 hours, lasting up to 15 minutes.
In men, FSH remains stable lifelong at 1.5-12.4 mIU/mL. In women, it varies:
- Girls under 9 – 0.11-1.6;
- Days 1-14 (menstrual/proliferative phases) – 3.5-15.5;
- Days 13-15 (ovulatory) – 4.7-21.5;
- Day 15+ (luteal) – 1.7-7.7;
- Pre-/post-menopause – 2.58-134.8 units.
Its primary function regulates spermatogenesis in men and ovarian follicle development in women, overseeing reproductive system function.
Elevated levels indicate hypogonadism (testicular/ovarian underdevelopment), depletion, cysts, orchitis, ectopic secretion, or testicular feminization. Alcohol abuse, menopause, castration, chemotherapy, radiation, or certain medications increase follitropin secretion.
Low levels suggest hypothalamic amenorrhea, pituitary dwarfism, hyperprolactinemia, central hypogonadism, or polycystic ovaries. Obesity, fasting, and pregnancy reduce levels.
Indications for FSH Blood Testing
A reproductive specialist, gynecologist, or family doctor may order this test. For women, indications include absent ovulation, irregular cycles, miscarriage, uterine bleeding, infertility, or low libido. For men, it’s used in infertility diagnosis/treatment, low libido, impotence, or testicular hypofunction.
It’s also indicated for gonadal hypofunction, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, and chronic inflammations.
If FSH is low, retesting is advised due to its pulsatile release. High levels don’t require repeat testing.
How Is the FSH Blood Test Conducted?
Venous blood is drawn fasting in the morning. The patient sits, extends and relaxes their arm on a support or table, a tourniquet is applied above the puncture site, and they clench/unclench their fist for 20-30 seconds. The site is disinfected with alcohol, and blood is collected via syringe or system in about 5 minutes.
Last meal 8 hours prior. Men can test any day; women ideally on cycle days 6-7.
Avoid intense exercise and hormonal drugs 3 days before, fatty/spicy food and alcohol 24 hours prior, and smoking an hour before.
Testing is contraindicated during acute viral/respiratory illnesses or recent stress.
Completion Time for FSH Testing
Sample processing averages 4 hours, with results typically issued the next day.
Prices and Clinics
Select a diagnostic center on the website.
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