How Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Works in Women And Men

Follicle-stimulating hormone


Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is made by the pituitary gland in the brain. Control of FSH production is a complex system involving hormones produced by the gonads (ovaries or testes), the pituitary, and the hypothalamus. In women, FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles (eggs) during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. This cycle is divided into two phases, the follicular and the luteal, by a mid-cycle surge of FSH and luteinizing hormone (LH). Ovulation occurs shortly after this mid-cycle surge of hormones. During the follicular phase, FSH initiates the production of estradiol by the follicle, and the two hormones work together in the further development of the egg follicle. During the luteal phase, FSH stimulates the production of progesterone. Both estradiol and progesterone help the pituitary control the amount of FSH produced. FSH also facilitates the ability of the ovary to respond to LH. At the time of menopause, the ovaries stop functioning and FSH levels rise. In men, FSH stimulates the testes to produce mature sperm and also promotes the production of androgen binding proteins. FSH levels are relatively constant in males after puberty.

For the medical lab test, a blood sample is drawn by needle from a vein in the arm. Sometimes, a random urine sample may be collected. A 24-hour collection of urine may be requested if your doctor wants to measure FSH levels produced over a 24-hour period. FSH is released intermittently throughout the day and a 24-hour urine collection eliminates problems due to that variation; a random sample might not show the actual activity of the hormone.

The Hormone Foundation stated, “Follicle-stimulating hormone should be evaluated especially in terms of fertility issues”.

To purchase a Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) test simply order online at LabSafe at http://www.labsafe.com/lab-tests/test/359/ or visit our website at www.labsafe.com

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