Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Levels Test

What is Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)?
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is a gonadotropin hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. It is also known as follitropin. It plays an important role in the sexual development, reproductive system and fertility of both men and women.

Purpose of the Test
The FSH levels test is used to check the levels of FSH in the blood. It is usually ordered to diagnose fertility problems in both men and women, and to find out why a woman is not ovulating or why a man has a low sperm count. It can also be useful in diagnosing other reproductive and hormonal issues.

Preparation
No preparation is required for FSH levels test and you can eat and drink normally. Be sure to tell your doctor about any medications you are taking as they can affect the results.

Procedure
During the FSH levels test, a small sample of your blood will be taken from a vein. The blood will be collected in a tube and sent to a laboratory for testing. You may experience minor discomfort when the needle is inserted into your vein.

Types of FSH Tests

Day 3 Test. This is a standard test to measure FSH levels during the early part of the menstrual cycle in women. It is used to help diagnose fertility problems.
Baseline Test. This test is used to measure FSH levels on Day 2, 3 or 4 of the menstrual cycle. It is usually done with other hormone tests to help diagnose ovulation problems in women.
Predictive Test. This test is used to measure FSH levels on Day 7 of the menstrual cycle. It can indicate if a woman is likely to ovulate and if the ovulation process is normal.

Risks
There is very little risk associated with having a FSH levels test. You may experience slight discomfort when the needle is inserted into your vein, but this is usually minor.

Why Is It Performed?
The FSH levels test is usually performed to help diagnose infertility in both men and women. It can be useful in diagnosing ovulation problems in women and can help to identify possible causes of infertility. It can also be used to monitor ovulation induction treatments and to check testicular function in men.

When Is It Performed?
The FSH levels test can be done at any time, but is usually performed during the first few days of a woman's menstrual cycle. It can also be done at other times, depending on what your doctor wants to investigate.