What is Follicle-Stimulating Hormone?

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) helps manage the menstrual cycle and stimulates the ovaries to produce eggs.

Why is it measured?

For women, FSH is critical in regulating the menstrual cycle and stimulating ovaries to produce eggs. It is tested to determine: 

• Menopause
• Women who have polycystic ovary syndrome or ovarian cysts
• Abnormal vaginal or menstrual bleeding
• Problems becoming pregnant

How can I better understand my results?

Normally Menstruating Females: 

• Early Follicular Phase: 3.85-8.78 pg/mL
• Mid-Follicular Phase: 4.54-22.51 pg/mL
• Mid-Luteal Phase: 1.79-5.12 pg/mL

Post-Menopausal Females (not on HRT)

• 16.74-113.59 pg/mL

Low levels of FSH can suggest an issue with egg production in the ovaries. It may also be a symptom of a more serious issue.

High levels of FSH could mean that ovaries are specifically producing less eggs. This could mean a more serious issue, so it is best to speak to a provider.

Where can I learn more?

To learn more about how FSH works, read here

 

DISCLAIMER: IF YOU ARE CONCERNED WITH ANY OF YOUR RESULTS, PLEASE CONSULT YOUR PROVIDER