FSH — The Fertility Signal You Should Know About
Follicle-stimulating hormone does exactly what the name says — it stimulates follicles. In women, that means growing eggs. In men, it drives sperm production. FSH is one of the first hormones your doctor will check when fertility is on the table, and it's also a reliable indicator of where you stand on the menopause timeline. Simple test, powerful information.
Why Test Follicle-stimulating hormone, FSH?
FSH testing helps crack the code on infertility, irregular or missing periods, early menopause suspicions, PCOS evaluation, and — in men — low sperm count or reduced sex drive. It's a cornerstone of any serious reproductive health check-up.
What Do High Follicle-stimulating hormone, FSH Levels Mean?
In women, high FSH often tracks with low estrogen. It may indicate primary ovarian insufficiency, PCOS, perimenopause, menopause, Turner syndrome, or ovarian tumours. In men, high FSH can signal testicular damage from chemotherapy, radiation, infection, or heavy drinking, or Klinefelter's syndrome.
What Do Low Follicle-stimulating hormone, FSH Levels Mean?
Low FSH in women may mean the ovaries aren't producing enough eggs, or there's a pituitary or hypothalamic issue. In men, it can point to pituitary or hypothalamic dysfunction. In children, low FSH may signal delayed puberty.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Irregular or absent periods
- Difficulty conceiving
- Hot flashes (perimenopause/menopause)
- Low sperm count in men
- Decreased sex drive
- Delayed puberty in children
Who Should Get Tested?
- Women with fertility concerns or irregular periods
- Men with low sperm count or reduced libido
- Women who suspect early menopause
- Those being evaluated for PCOS
- Children with signs of delayed or early puberty
How to Prepare for Your Test
For fertility evaluation, take this test on day 3 of your menstrual cycle (or between days 2-5). No other preparation needed. Bring valid ID. If you take a supplement containing biotin (often sold for hair and nails), pause it for two days before the test, as high doses can distort the result.
Order Your Blood Test
Test your Follicle-stimulating hormone, FSH levels with an accredited Swedish laboratory. Results within days, reviewed by Wellth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is FSH tested on day 3 of the cycle?
Can FSH predict menopause?
Is FSH relevant for men?
Reviewed by
Wellth Team
Wellth
Our content is written and reviewed by Wellth, and fact-checked against peer-reviewed research and current Swedish clinical guidelines.
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The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wellth provides health information and testing services but is not a substitute for clinical care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, contact your doctor or call 1177 Vårdguiden. Blood test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your complete medical history.