Follicle-Stimulating Hormone

FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) Test

Why It Is Done

A follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) test may be done to:

• Help find the cause of infertility. FSH testing is commonly used to help evaluate a:
  • Woman's egg supply (ovarian reserve).
  • Man's low sperm count.
• Help evaluate menstrual problems, such as irregular or absent menstrual periods (amenorrhea). This can help determine whether the woman has gone through menopause.
• Determine whether a child is going through early puberty (also called precocious puberty). Puberty is early when it starts in girls younger than age 9 and in boys younger than age 10.
• Determine why sexual features or organs are not developing when they should (delayed puberty).
• Help diagnose certain pituitary gland disorders, such as a tumor.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: June 6, 2007
Medical Review:	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.