Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test

What Is a Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Level Test?
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is an important part of the reproductive system. It’s responsible for the growth of ovarian follicles. Follicles produce estrogen and progesterone in the ovaries and help maintain the menstrual cycles in women. In men, FSH is a part of the development of the gonads as well as sperm production.

The FSH test measures the level of FSH found in your blood. Your doctor will order an FSH test to find the underlying cause of symptoms affecting the reproductive system.

The Purpose of the FSH Level Test
An FSH test is a simple blood test. Women might be asked to have this test done at a specific point in their menstrual cycle, usually the first couple of days.

FSH Test for Women
In women,themost common reasons for an FSH test include:

assessing infertility problems
assessing irregular menstrual cycles
diagnosing disorders of the pituitary gland or diseases involving the ovaries
FSH Test for Men
In men,an FSH test may be done to:

evaluate a low sperm count
assess hypogonadism or gonadal failure
assess testicular dysfunction
FSH Test for Children
An FSH test might be used to determine if a child is experiencing precocious puberty, which is early puberty. An FSH test may also be used to determine if a child is experiencing delayed puberty. This occurs when sexual features or organs don’t develop when they should.

What Should My Doctor Know Before I Take the Test?

Talk to your doctor about any prescription or nonprescription medications, dietary supplements, and vitamins you’re taking before any medical test is performed. You should tell your doctor about any types of birth control you use, such as the pill, an intrauterine device, or the patch, because this may play a role in your test results.

You should also discuss any existing medical disorders with your doctor, such as the following:

uncontrolled thyroid disease
sex-dependent hormone tumors
ovarian cysts
unusual vaginal bleeding
These conditions may be associated with FSH levels.

What Happens During the Test?
The test for the FSH level is simple and involves the following steps:

A healthcare provider will tie a tourniquet above the site where the blood will be taken. Blood is usually taken from the arm.
They’ll clean and sterilize the site with an antiseptic and insert a needle directly into your vein.
Most people feel a few moments of sharp pain initially, but this will quickly fade as the blood is drawn.
They’ll remove the needle within a few minutes and then ask you to apply pressure to the site with a cotton ball or small cloth.
They’ll place a bandage on the site.

What Risks Are Associated with the Test?
With any procedure, a small amount of risk is involved. Slight risks include:

vasovagal syncope, or fainting at the sight of blood
dizziness
vertigo
an infection
bruising
a hematoma
pain
redness at the needle site