FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) $35.00
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The FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) examination encompasses 1 test with 1 biomarker.
Synopsis:
The FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) assessment is a clinical procedure designed to quantify the FSH levels present in the bloodstream. Produced by the pituitary gland, FSH plays an instrumental role in the reproductive mechanisms of the human body, governing the maturation of eggs in females and the formation of sperm in males.
Commonly Referred to As:
Follitropin Assessment, FSH Blood Test
Method of Collection:
Venipuncture
Type of Specimen:
Blood Serum
Pre-Test Guidelines:
The test necessitates no specific preparation.
When an FSH Test May Be Requisitioned:
Assessing Fertility and Reproductive Health:
Predominantly in females, an FSH test is instrumental for evaluating fertility and overall reproductive health. It can be part of a comprehensive fertility analysis, aiding in the examination of ovarian function and the determination of egg quantity and quality (ovarian reserve).
Confirming Menopausal Status:
The FSH test is crucial in verifying the onset of menopause. As a woman nears menopause, the function of her ovaries diminishes, leading to an increase in FSH levels. This escalation, in conjunction with other symptoms and hormonal evaluations, facilitates the diagnosis.
Evaluating Pituitary Gland Function:
The FSH test offers insights into the activity of the pituitary gland, which is responsible for FSH production. It might be employed when there are concerns regarding pituitary disorders or to supervise the gland’s performance during certain therapeutic interventions.
The FSH blood test evaluates the level of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) in the bloodstream, essential for the reproductive processes of both men and women.
Produced by the pituitary gland, FSH is crucial for the development of eggs in women and sperm in men. The production of FSH is influenced by the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and hormones from the ovaries or testicles.
In women, FSH stimulates the growth of egg cells during the menstrual cycle and promotes the production of estradiol by the follicles. As women age and approach menopause, ovarian function diminishes, leading to an increase in FSH and LH levels.
In men, FSH is vital for sperm development and the production of androgen binding proteins. FSH levels in men remain relatively constant after puberty.
In infants and children, FSH levels are high shortly after birth, then decrease significantly, and start to increase again in the years leading up to puberty.
Dysregulation of FSH production can lead to issues such as infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, and abnormal sexual development, potentially indicating conditions affecting the brain, pituitary gland, ovaries, or testicles.
Lab Tests Commonly Paired with a FSH Test:
- Estrogen
- Estradiol
- LH (Luteinizing Hormone)
- Testosterone
- Progesterone
- Androstenedione
- Sperm Analysis
- Anti-Mullerian Hormone
- Prolactin
- Sex Hormone Binding Globulin
Situations Where an FSH Test is Advisable:
Infertility Investigations:
For couples experiencing challenges in conception, an FSH test is crucial for evaluating the woman’s ovarian reserve and examining egg production and quality.
Onset of Menopause:
As women enter menopause, FSH levels rise, and this test helps in validating the commencement of menopause.
Assessing Pituitary Gland Function:
Abnormalities in FSH levels may indicate pituitary gland dysfunction, necessitating further examination and testing.