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Hormones

FSH Blood Test

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland and plays an essential role in reproductive function. It regulates egg development in women and sperm production in men. Abnormal levels may indicate changes in fertility or hormonal health.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

See the value that applies to you:

Choose male or female — this range differs by sex.

Enter your age — this range changes with age.

This range also depends on context such as cycle phase or sample material; the highlighted rows apply to your group.

Your reference range
U/L
1,5 134,8 U/L
Reference ranges by group, in U/L
Male 1,5–12,4 U/L
1,5 12,4
Female · Follicular 3,5–12,5 U/L
3,5 12,5
Female · Ovulatory 4,7–21,5 U/L
4,7 21,5
Female · Luteal 1,7–7,7 U/L
1,7 7,7
Female · Postmenopausal 25,8–134,8 U/L
25,8 134,8
1,5 134,8 U/L

Bijsluiterwaarde: 5e-95e percentiel per subgroep (n = 319 mannen, mediaan 4,6; 376 folliculair, mediaan 6,9; 56 ovulatie, mediaan 12,3; 349 luteaal, mediaan 3,6; 181 postmenopauzaal, mediaan 67). Een hormoonreferentiewaarde is assay-specifiek; deze waarden gelden voor de Roche Elecsys-methode.

Source: Roche Diagnostics Reference population: Roche referentiecohort (Elecsys FSH bijsluiter)

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Check your own value

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): what this test measures

This test measures the concentration of follicle-stimulating hormone in your blood. FSH is released by the pituitary gland and stimulates the ovaries to produce eggs or the testes to produce sperm. Your healthcare provider may interpret FSH alongside LH and sex hormones for context.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): why this value matters

FSH is a key indicator of reproductive health and pituitary function. Elevated levels could suggest diminished ovarian reserve or primary gonadal failure, while low levels may indicate pituitary dysfunction. Discussing your results with a healthcare provider may help clarify your reproductive health status.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): how to prepare

  1. Do you have a cycle? Pick the right day

    Required

    If you have a menstrual cycle, count the first day of your period as day 1 and have the draw on day 2 to 5. On hormonal contraception, or without a cycle, any day works.

  • Water is always fine. Drink as usual beforehand, it makes the draw easier.
  • Take your usual medication, unless your own doctor told you otherwise.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): when is testing worthwhile?

Your healthcare provider may recommend FSH testing when evaluating fertility, investigating irregular or absent menstrual periods, assessing menopausal status, or examining delayed puberty. For women, testing is typically performed early in the menstrual cycle. Consult your provider for timing advice.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Some people may experience irregular or absent menstrual periods, decreased libido, infertility, or delayed puberty when FSH levels are low. Fatigue and reduced body hair could also suggest insufficient FSH production. A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause.

High Levels

Elevated FSH levels may be associated with menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats in women, or could suggest testicular dysfunction in men. High FSH may also indicate diminished ovarian reserve. Your healthcare provider can evaluate what elevated levels mean for your situation.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): what to do about an abnormal value

Male

If Low

Low FSH may indicate pituitary dysfunction or hypogonadism. Consult with an endocrinologist for evaluation of pituitary function.

If High

Elevated FSH may indicate primary testicular failure or Klinefelter syndrome. Consider genetic testing and consultation with a reproductive endocrinologist.

Female

If Low

Low FSH may indicate pituitary dysfunction, hypothalamic amenorrhea, or PCOS. Consult with a gynecologist or reproductive endocrinologist.

If High

High FSH may indicate diminished ovarian reserve, menopause, or premature ovarian failure. Consider fertility consultation if planning pregnancy.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): lifestyle and this value

Maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and ensuring adequate nutrition may support healthy pituitary function and FSH regulation. Avoiding excessive exercise that could disrupt hormonal balance is also important. Always discuss concerns about your reproductive health with your healthcare provider.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): frequently asked questions

What does FSH do?

FSH stimulates egg development in women and sperm production in men, playing a key reproductive role.

Can FSH indicate menopause?

Rising FSH levels may suggest approaching menopause. Your healthcare provider can help interpret your results.

When in my cycle should I test FSH?

FSH is typically tested on day 2-4 of your cycle. Consult your healthcare provider for personalised timing.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.

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Medical standards

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Medical policy
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FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone)

€25,-