Follicle-Stimulating Hormone: Results
Content provided by Healthwise
Results
A follicle-stimulating hormone test measures the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in a blood sample. The test results depend on your age and stage of sexual development.
The phase of a woman's menstrual cycle can affect results, so it is important to know the first day of your last menstrual period at the time the test is performed.
Results are usually available within 24 hours.
Normal
Normal values vary widely among labs and methods used.
| Menstruating women | |
|---|---|
| Midcycle peak: | 30–50 IU/L |
| Women past menopause: | 50 IU/L or more |
| Men: | 5–15 IU/L |
| Children before puberty: | 6 IU/L or less |
Many conditions can change FSH levels.Your health professional will discuss any significant abnormal results with you in relation to your symptoms and medical history.
High values
High FSH values in a woman may indicate:
- Loss of ovarian function before age 40 (ovarian failure).
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- Menopause has occurred.
High FSH values in a man may indicate:
- Klinefelter syndrome.
- Testicles are absent or not functioning properly.
- Testicles have been damaged by a disease, such as alcohol dependence, or by treatments, such as X-rays or chemotherapy.
High values in children may mean that puberty is about to start.
Low values
Low FSH values may indicate:
- A woman is not producing eggs (prevents ovulation) or a man is not producing sperm.
- An area of the brain (the hypothalamus or pituitary gland) is not functioning properly.
- A tumor is present that interferes with the brain's ability to control FSH production.
- Stress.
- Starvation or being very underweight.
| Last updated: | June 06, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine, Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Related Articles
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
