Know Your Blood Parameters: Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

1. Parameter Name

   Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

   
   

2. Test Type

   Blood

   
   

3. Normal Range

   Women (Follicular phase): 3.5 – 12.5 IU/L

   Women (Mid-cycle peak): 4.7 – 21.5 IU/L

   Women (Luteal phase): 1.7 – 7.7 IU/L

   Men: 1.5 – 12.4 IU/L

   
   

4. High Levels Indicate

   Menopause, primary gonadal failure.

   
   

5. Low Levels Indicate

   Pituitary or hypothalamic disorders causing secondary hypogonadism.

   
   

6. Why It's Tested

   To evaluate fertility, menstrual irregularities, and gonadal function.

   
   

7. Associated Symptoms (if abnormal)

   High: Menstrual irregularities, infertility.

   Low: Delayed puberty, low sex hormone symptoms.

   
   

8. What To Do If Abnormal

   Check LH, estradiol/testosterone; further imaging and endocrine consult may be needed.

   
   

9. Common Conditions Related

   Menopause, hypogonadism, pituitary disorders.

   
   

10. Nutrition or Lifestyle Connection

    Healthy diet, maintaining body weight, avoiding excessive exercise helps hormonal balance.

    
    

11. References (APA Format)

Melmed, S. et al. (2016). Williams Textbook of Endocrinology (13th ed.). Elsevier.

MedlinePlus. (2023). Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH).