About Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is a glycoprotein polypeptide hormone synthesized and secreted by the gonadotroph cells of the anterior pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in sexual development and functioning, including the regulation of the reproductive processes of the ovaries and testes. In women, FSH stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles before the release of an egg at ovulation, while in men, FSH is important for spermatogenesis.
Reference Values
Optimal Range
Not specified
Women's Optimal Range
3.0 - 8.0 IU/L
Elite Value
Not specified
Health Implications
High
Elevated levels may indicate conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome or benign tumors in both men and women, leading to reproductive challenges.
Low
Low levels may be associated with potential pituitary gland dysfunction, which can result in infertility or delayed puberty in individuals.
Symptoms
High
May include irregular menstrual cycles, hot flashes, and mood swings in women; decreased libido and testicular dysfunction in men.
Low
Can include lack of menstrual periods, reduced sexual interest, fatigue, and infertility issues in both genders.
Lifestyle Factors
Specimen Type
Testing Methods
Also Known As
Scientific Sources
- 1. Kumar, P., & Sait, S. F. (2019). Luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone synergistic action in ovulation induction. *Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences*, 12(2), 73–78. 2. Rosenfield, R. L., & Ehrmann, D. A. (2016). The pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): The hypothesis of FSH and LH imbalance. *Endocrine Reviews*, 37(5), 467–520. 3. World Health Organization. (2020). WHO laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen (6th ed.). Geneva: World Health Organization. 4. American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2017). Diagnostic evaluation of the infertile male: A committee opinion. *Fertility and Sterility*, 107(3), 52–58. 5. Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2020). Testing and interpreting measures of ovarian reserve: A committee opinion. *Fertility and Sterility*, 114(6), 1151–1157.