When should i test fsh

When a woman is undergoing a fertility work-up, Cycle Day 3 is the day she has blood work performed to check the levels of three important levels: follicle stimulating hormone FSH , luteinizing hormone LH and estradiol E2. FSH is secreted by the pituitary gland. It stimulates the production of estradiol estrogen and eggs oocytes during the first half of the menstrual cycle. The eggs begin to grow in their individual fluid sacs, or follicles, which is the first step in the ovulation process.

High levels of FSH are an indication of poor ovarian reserves; in other words, the quality and quantity of eggs is low. This does not necessarily mean that pregnancy is impossible, but it may be more difficult to achieve. An FSH test may also be used to determine if a child is experiencing delayed puberty.

You should tell your doctor about any types of birth control you use, such as the pill, an intrauterine device, or the patch, because this may play a role in your test results. You should also discuss any existing medical disorders with your doctor, such as the following:. FSH levels vary based on gender and age. They also vary depending on where a woman is in her monthly cycle.

Each lab has a slightly different reference range. You should discuss your results with your doctor. An increase in FSH may also indicate a reduction in the production of good quality eggs and embryos for fertilization. A common reason for this is your age. As you age, your fertility starts to decline and fewer eggs mature in your ovaries. The quality of the eggs that remain is lower than during earlier years. A high FSH level means your chances of becoming pregnant may be lower than expected for your age.

Your hormones underlie many basic processes in your body. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test result. Low FSH levels in men may mean parts of the brain the pituitary gland or hypothalamus do not produce normal amounts of some or all of its hormones. There is little risk involved with having your blood taken. Veins and arteries vary in size from one person to another and from one side of the body to the other. Taking blood from some people may be more difficult than from others.

Garibaldi LR, Chemaitilly W. Disorders of pubertal development. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; chap Jeelani R, Bluth MH. Reproductive function and pregnancy. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; chap Lobo RA.