FSH Full Form

FSH full form is follicle-stimulating hormone. The hormone is produced by the anterior pituitary which helps in gametogenesis it also promotes the formation of ovarian and maintains the menstrual cycle on a regular basis.

What is the full form of FSH?

As mentioned above the full form of FSH is follicle stimulating hormone presented in the human body. It is a protein secreted from the pituitary glands. FSH plays an important role in the formation and proliferation of eggs in women’s bodies along with it also regulates the menstrual cycles. The hormone is not only present in females but they also help in the production of sperm in males. It is an essential element in both women and men to produce reproductive organs. Blood test helps in detecting the FSH value in the human body. An abnormal level of FSH indicates difficulties in reproduction.

 What is the FSH test?

The FSH test is just a blood test that is used to diagnose problems related to fertility/ Ovulation. FSH may be high in level if a woman is not ovulating or she is going through menopause. Mostly, the FSH levels are checked on the 3rd, 5th, and 7th days of the menstrual cycle. On the 7th day, the level is normally high. The level of FSH can be checked during IVF treatment.

Why is the FSH test Conducted?

Below are situations when an FSH test should be conducted without any delay

In Women FSH helps in the production of eggs and managing the menstrual cycle, the test is conducted to diagnose the following issues:

• Menopause
• Suffering from ovarian cysts or polycystic ovary syndrome
• Menstrual bleeding or abnormal vagina
• Complications while becoming pregnant

In males FSH helps in the production of sperm, the test is conducted to evaluate the following problems

• Problem-related to infertility
• If testicles are in the stage of underdeveloped or not present

In children FSH helps in the process of development of sexual features

• Developed sexual features at young age
• Difficulty in puberty

 When should an individual get their FSH level tested?

Below mentioned are some situations when an individual should get tested for their FSH level upon noticing changes in body functionality: 

• Fertility Problems
• Irregularity in periods or no periods
• Problems in getting pregnant

What are the Consequences of having a low FSH level?

Below are consequences that can occur due to having a low level of FSH

• May not be able to conceive
• Difficulty in maintaining pregnancy
• Problems with the functionality of the thyroid and level of oestrogen
• Effects on the overall quality of life
• Decrease in bone density

What are the Consequences of having a high FSH level?

Below are some consequences of having a high FSH level

• Failure in ovarian
• Effects on fertility

What is the Normal range of FSH levels in women?

The level varies due to the menstrual cycle. The level is considered highest during the early phase of follicular growth (When eggs start to form). Below are the normal range of FSH level in women

• Before puberty- 0 to 4 mlU/mL
• During puberty- 0.3 to 10 mlU/mL
• Still in the age of menstruating- 4.7 to 21.5 mlU/m
• After menopause- 25.8 to 134.8 mlU/mL
• Adult – 1.5 to 12.4 mlU/mL

What is the Normal range of FSH levels in Males?

The level of FSH may vary according to an individual’s age

• Before puberty- 0 to 5 mlU/mL
• During puberty- 0.3 to 10 mlU/mL
• Adult- 1.5 to 12.4 mlU/ML