What is FSH?
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is made by the pituitary gland. In women it stimulates ovarian follicles to grow and mature; in men it supports sperm production. FSH is measured with LH to evaluate fertility, menopause, and the cause of hormonal problems.
Why it matters
FSH is a key marker of ovarian reserve and menopause in women and of sperm-producing capacity in men, and it distinguishes gonadal from pituitary causes of hormonal issues.
What it measures
Serum FSH concentration, interpreted with LH, sex, and cycle phase.
Reference & optimal ranges
Reference ranges vary by lab, assay, age, and sex. The ranges below reflect commonly published adult intervals and are for education only always interpret results with the range printed on your own lab report and a clinician.
High FSH indicates reduced gonadal function in women, diminished ovarian reserve or menopause; in men, testicular failure.
Common symptoms
- Irregular or absent periods
- Infertility
- Menopausal symptoms
Potential causes
- Menopause / ovarian insufficiency
- Testicular failure
- Klinefelter or Turner syndrome
Low FSH suggests a pituitary or hypothalamic problem.
Common symptoms
- Infertility, low libido, absent periods
Potential causes
- Pituitary dysfunction
- Hypothalamic amenorrhea
- High prolactin
- Anabolic steroid use
How to improve your FSH
Lifestyle
Support reproductive health
Maintain healthy body weight and manage stress, which influence the reproductive axis.
Nutrition
Adequate energy intake
Under-fueling suppresses FSH and LH.
Exercise
Balanced activity
Avoid excessive training without recovery.
Sleep
Consistent sleep
Supports pituitary hormone rhythms.
Frequently asked questions
Scientific references
- FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) Test Testing.com
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Levels Test MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
Educational information, not medical advice. This page is for general education and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed clinician. Do not start, stop, or change any medication, supplement, or treatment based on this content. Reference and optimal ranges vary between laboratories interpret your results with the range on your own report and a qualified professional.