FSH

FSH

A follicle-stimulating hormone test measures the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in a blood sample. FSH is produced by the pituitary gland. This test measures the amount of FSH that is being produced in the the body.

In women, FSH helps manage a women’s cycle and stimulates the ovaries to produce eggs. The test is used to help diagnose or evaluate:

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

In men, FSH stimulates production of sperm. The test is used to help diagnose or evaluate:

• Problems becoming pregnant, or infertility
• Men who do not have testicles or whose testicles are under-developed

In children, FSH is involved with the development of sexual features. The test is ordered for children:

• Who develop sexual features at a very young age
• Who are delayed in starting puberty