FSH Test (Follicle Stimulating Hormone)

Why is the FSH Test Necessary?

FSH test measures the level of FSH in blood and is used to evaluate various aspects of reproductive health:

In Women:

• Evaluation of Ovarian Reserve: High levels of FSH can indicate a low number of functional eggs, which affects fertility.
• Diagnosis of Menstrual Irregularity: Irregular FSH levels can identify causes of irregular or absent menstrual periods.
• Evaluation of Status of Menopause: High FSH levels are associated with menopause transition.

In Men:

• Interpretation of Infertility: Low levels of FSH can be linked with lower sperm production.
• Testing for the Function of the Testes: FSH levels may decide if and how much sperm the testes are producing.

Children:

• Diagnosis of Puberty Disorders: Defiant FSH levels will indicate early puberty or delayed puberty.

When do you require an FSH test?

Your doctor may recommend that you undergo an FSH test if you:

Women

• Difficulty conceiving
• Irregular or missed menstrual periods
• Symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes or night sweats

Men:

• Infertility
• Decreased sex drive
• Muscle loss

Children:

• Signs of early puberty
• Delayed puberty

Preparation for the FSH Test

The FSH test is a standard blood test and requires little preparation:

• Timing: In women, the test may be done on the third day of the menstrual cycle to measure ovarian reserve properly.
• Medications: Let your doctor know if you're taking any medications or supplements, as some may alter hormone levels.
• Fasting: Usually, fasting isn't necessary for this test.

Understanding FSH Test Results

FSH is measured in milli-international units per milliliter (mIU/mL). Reference values can vary with age, sex, and the laboratory:

Women:

• Pre-puberty: 0 to 4.0 mIU/mL
• Reproductive years: 4.7 to 21.5 mIU/mL
• Post-menopause: 25.8 to 134.8 mIU/mL

Men:

• Pre-puberty: 0 to 5.0 mIU/mL
• Puberty: 0.3 to 10.0 mIU/mL
• Adult: 1.5 to 12.4 mIU/mL

It is important to interpret FSH results in the context of other clinical findings and laboratory tests. Your healthcare provider will discuss what your results particularly indicate with respect to your health.

Other Tests Usually Recommended along with FSH Test

To have a more detailed view of reproductive health, doctors may recommend additional tests in addition to the FSH test:

• Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Acts with FSH to control the menstrual cycle and ovulation.
• Estradiol: An estrogen hormone that helps in estimating the function of ovaries.
• Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH): Gives information regarding the quantity of eggs available.
• Prolactin: High levels could interfere with ovulation.
• Thyroid Function Tests: Fertility and menstruation could be influenced by abnormalities of the thyroid.
• Testosterone: In males, to test testicular function; in females, to eliminate conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

We think about the comfort and quality health care at MAX@Home. Our pathology has the FSH test and additional diagnostic tests brought to you directly in the comfort of your own home. The precise samples collection and result supply are carried out with care by experts who desire your reproductive life preserved.

With expert guidance and complete testing, you can make reasonable choices along the way to health. MAX@Home is always there to guide you.