Hormones · IU/L

FSH

FSH is a pituitary hormone that in women stimulates the maturation of ovarian follicles and in men sperm production. It works in a feedback loop with the sex hormones.

Ranges we useESHRE / ASRM / IMS
RatingRange
Goodbelow 150 IU/L
Worth improving150 IU/L and above

This marker also has 8 age- or sex-specific range sets in the app — the table shows the general one.

Source: ESHRE / ASRM / IMS · Evidence-based guideline: premature ovarian insufficiency · 2024 · open

Why it matters

A high level indicates declining ovarian function (perimenopause/menopause).

If it’s low

Low FSH can indicate a pituitary/hypothalamic disorder (it does not send the command) — e.g. with stress, low weight or pituitary gland disease.

If it’s high

In women, high FSH often means declining ovarian function or menopause; in men, impaired sperm production — the gland does not respond, so the pituitary drives it.

What to do

Read FSH with the sex hormones and on the correct cycle day. With fertility problems or menopausal questions, seek advice.

Read together with

Estradiol · Progesterone · Testosterone · Prolactin

Part of the guide: Hormones →

Articles about this marker

This content is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your results.

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