Follicle-stimulating Hormone

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone produced in the body that plays an important role in reproduction. It is secreted by the pituitary gland in both sexes, and stimulates the development of follicles – sacs which contain an egg – in the ovary of women, and stimulates the production of sperm in men. FSH also helps to regulate the menstrual cycle. FSH levels are often tested in fertility evaluations to evaluate the health of ovaries and assess egg quality in women, and to diagnose male infertility. Abnormal FSH levels can signal issues such as menopausal transition, polycystic ovary syndrome, primary ovarian failure, and hypogonadism. Knowing how much FSH is secreted by the pituitary gland can help doctors accurately diagnose and develop the most appropriate treatment plan.