FSH, known as follicle stimulating hormone, is produced by the pituitary gland and works to regulate sperm production and egg maturation in childbearing age.In this way, FSH is a hormone linked to fertility and its concentration in the blood helps determine whether the testes and ovaries are functioning properly.
The baseline values for the FSH test vary depending on a person’s age and gender and, in the case of women, the menstrual cycle phase and may also be helpful in confirming menopause.
- This test is usually requested to evaluate whether the partner has retained their fertility.
- If they have difficulty getting pregnant.
- But may also be requested by the gynecologist or endocrinologist to evaluate:.
Situations that may affect the outcome of the FSH test include the use of birth control pills, radioactive contrast tests, such as those designed for the thyroid, as well as the use of medications such as cimetidine, clomiphene and levodopa, for example.Recommend that the woman stop taking the birth control pill 4 weeks before taking this test.
FSH values vary by age and gender.In infants and children, FSH is not detectable or detectable in small concentrations, and normal production begins at puberty.
FSH reference values may vary by lab, so the values that each lab uses as a reference must be respected, however, here is an example:
Children: up to 2.5 mUI/ml
Adult male: 1.4 – 13.8 mIU / mL
Adult female:
Normally, FSH is not requested during pregnancy, as values change significantly during this period due to hormonal changes.Learn how to identify the phases of your menstrual cycle.
Depending on the outcome of the scan, your doctor indicates what causes the increase or decrease of this hormone, taking into account age, and whether you are male or female, but the most common causes of this type of alteration are: