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- Manage stress levels
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Regular physical activity
Blutwerte · Marker
FSH
Follikelstimulierendes Hormon · Follicle-Stimulating Hormone · FSH
Hormone — Reproduktionsachse
- Einheit:
- IU/L
FSH quantifies the concentration of follicle-stimulating hormone in the blood, which is involved in reproductive processes.
Reference Ranges
Reference
1.5–12.4IU/L
1.5
12.4
LowNormalHigh
Reference
Unit · IU/LReference ranges vary by age and sex; typically higher in postmenopausal women.
Overview
Übersicht
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is a glycoprotein hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of the reproductive processes, including the development of ovarian follicles in women and spermatogenesis in men. FSH levels are influenced by the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus and are part of the feedback loop involving sex steroids such as estrogen and testosterone. Clinically, FSH is an important marker in evaluating reproductive health. Elevated FSH levels can indicate primary ovarian insufficiency or testicular failure, while low levels may suggest hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. FSH measurement is also crucial in diagnosing conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and assessing menopausal status. In the context of athletic performance and biohacking, FSH is less directly relevant but can provide insights into hormonal balance and reproductive health, which indirectly affect overall well-being and performance. Researchers have found that FSH levels can be influenced by factors such as age, sex, and hormonal therapies. Time of day and fasting status do not significantly affect FSH levels, but certain medications and health conditions can interfere with accurate measurement. Therefore, it is important to consider these factors when interpreting FSH results.
Klinische Bedeutung
Elevated FSH levels often indicate primary gonadal failure, such as menopause or testicular dysfunction. Reduced FSH levels may suggest hypogonadotropic hypogonadism or pituitary dysfunction.
Dynamics
Trend Interpretation
Rising Values
Progressively rising FSH levels may indicate advancing ovarian failure or menopause. Re-test in 4-6 weeks if clinically indicated.
Falling Values
Falling FSH levels may suggest recovery from a temporary pituitary suppression or response to hormone therapy.
Re-test Interval
4-6 weeks if outside optimal range
Etiology
Causes — High & Low
Cause
Elevated Levels
- Menopause
- Primary ovarian insufficiency
- Testicular failure
- Turner syndrome
- Klinefelter syndrome
Cause
Low Levels
- Hypothalamic suppression
- Pituitary dysfunction
- Hyperprolactinemia
- Exogenous hormone use
- Severe stress
Protocol
How to Optimize
Lever
Nutrition
- Balanced diet rich in essential nutrients
- Adequate protein intake
Lever
Supplementation
- Vitamin D
- Zinc
Note:
Consult a healthcare provider before making significant lifestyle or dietary changes.
Testing Guidelines
✓Fasting Not Required
✓Not Time-Sensitive
FSH levels can vary throughout the day; morning samples are preferred for consistency.
Testing Frequency
As directed by a healthcare provider based on clinical indications.
Interfering Factors
- Hormonal medications
- Recent contraceptive use
- Severe illness
Related Peptides & Hormones
Luteinizing Hormone
hormoneCorrelated with
Open Research Questions
Current research suggests that robust reference intervals for follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in women remain incomplete, particularly regarding its role in menopausal symptoms and hormone therapy. Researchers have not yet established optimal FSH targets for various clinical scenarios, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome or during IVF treatments. Additionally, unanswered clinical questions include the implications of FSH receptor signaling in cancer and the potential therapeutic applications of FSH-blocking strategies in conditions like osteoporosis.
23 Research Publications
380
Total Citations
6
Human/RCT
2.3
Avg. Influence
2020
Latest
Sort
Filter
01Top
#01
The menopause and aging, a comparative perspective.
ReviewInfluence6.0
130
This review examines the neuroendocrinology of menopause, comparing rodent models to human experiences. It highlights the hormonal changes and their implications, noting that while rodents show hypothalamic impairments affecting LH and FSH surges, similar irreversible changes are not evident in peri-menopausal women.
02Top
#02
Pharmacokinetics of follicle-stimulating hormone: clinical significance.
ReviewInfluence1.0
64
Researchers reviewed the pharmacokinetics of endogenous and exogenous FSH preparations, noting variations in response based on sialic acid content. They identified a threshold FSH level necessary for ovarian response during treatments like IVF. Careful monitoring of FSH levels is crucial to avoid complications such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
03Top
#03
Genetic evaluation of male infertility.
ReviewInfluence4.0
56
Researchers emphasized the need for genetic testing in men with severe oligospermia or azoospermia to clarify infertility causes. They noted that FSH levels vary between obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermia, which influences genetic testing strategies. The study suggests that genetic analysis can guide management options for male infertility.
04
#04
FSH-blocking therapeutic for osteoporosis.
Animal
30
Researchers developed a first-in-class FSH-blocking antibody, MS-Hu6, which has shown efficacy in preventing osteoporosis in mice. The study reported that MS-Hu6 is stable and non-immunogenic, indicating potential for future human testing. The findings suggest that targeting FSH may be a viable strategy for treating osteoporosis.
05
#05
The follicle-stimulating hormone receptor: a novel target in genitourinary malignancies.
ReviewInfluence1.0
30
Researchers discussed the expression of the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) in tumor blood vessels of various genitourinary malignancies. The study suggests that targeting FSHR may have therapeutic potential in treating prostate cancer and other solid tumors.
06
#06
Relationship between metabolic syndrome and follicle-stimulating hormone in postmenopausal women.
HumanInfluence1.0
20
Researchers examined the relationship between follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and metabolic syndrome in postmenopausal women. They found that higher FSH levels were associated with lower odds of metabolic syndrome and improved insulin sensitivity. The study suggests that FSH may serve as a biomarker for metabolic syndrome risk.
07
#07
Estrogen Versus FSH Effects on Bone Metabolism: Evidence From Interventional Human Studies.
ReviewInfluence1.0
16
Researchers summarized evidence suggesting that while FSH levels correlate with postmenopausal bone loss, interventional studies have not shown FSH to directly influence bone or fat metabolism in humans. Current data from mouse studies and human observations remain inconclusive.
08
#08
A Comprehensive Review of Estradiol, Progesterone, Luteinizing Hormone, and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone in the Context of Laboratory Medicine to Support Women's Health.
Review
15
Researchers reviewed the roles of estradiol, progesterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in women's health. They noted that robust reference intervals for these hormones are lacking, which can impact care for women experiencing menopausal symptoms. Collaborative efforts are needed to better define therapeutic intervals for these hormones.
09
#09
Optimizing a therapeutic humanized follicle-stimulating hormone-blocking antibody formulation by protein thermal shift assay.
In Vitro
5
Researchers optimized a formulation for the humanized FSH-blocking antibody, MS-Hu6, using protein thermal shift assays. They identified optimal buffer conditions and stabilizers that enhanced the antibody's thermal stability, which is crucial for its potential therapeutic use.
10
#10
Efficacy and safety of a therapeutic humanized FSH-blocking antibody in obesity and Alzheimer's disease models.
Animal
4
Researchers developed an FSH-blocking antibody, MS-Hu6, showing potential in obesity and Alzheimer's disease models. The antibody demonstrated safety and efficacy in animal studies, leading to weight loss and improved memory function. This research supports future human trials.
Clinical Trials (6)
6
Total Trials
890
Total Enrolled
Effects of Adding Quercetin or Alpha Lipoic Acid to Usual Care on Symptoms and Blood Markers in Iraqi Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Sponsor
Al-Mustansiriyah University
Enrollment
150
Started
2025
Primary outcome
Change in Hormonal Profile (LH, FSH, Testosterone) from Baseline
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) of Bilateral Ovaries
LH/FSH, Testosterone, Prolactin, and Ferritin in PCOS Patients in Jordan
NCT07112768COMPLETED
Sponsor
Future University in Egypt
Enrollment
140
Started
2024
Primary outcome
Hormonal level
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
An 18-month Prospective Natural History Study to Gain Insight Into FSHD2 Pathophysiology and Disease Progression
NCT06079567RECRUITING
Sponsor
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice
Enrollment
50
Started
2023
Primary outcome
Minimal clinical importance of the Motor Function Measure-32 (MFM-32) from Baseline (V1) to 18 months (V3)
Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Type 2
Motor Outcomes to Validate Evaluations in FSHD (MOVE FSHD)
NCT04635891RECRUITING
Sponsor
University of Kansas Medical Center
Enrollment
450
Started
2020
Primary outcome
10m walk/run
FSHD
Influence of Laparoscopic Endometrioma Stripping Surgery on Serum Anti-mullerian Hormone Levels
NCT02286076UNKNOWN
Sponsor
Clinical Centre of Serbia
Enrollment
100
Started
2014
Primary outcome
Change of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
Endometriosis
Ovarian Damage in Young Premenopausal Women Undergoing Chemotherapy for Cancer
NCT00402935WITHDRAWN
Sponsor
Case Comprehensive Cancer Center
Enrollment
0
Started
2004
Primary outcome
Incidence of ovarian damage after cytotoxic chemotherapy as determined by changes in ovarian volume, antral follicle count, and follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, and inhibin B levels
LeukemiaLong-term Effects Secondary to Cancer Therapy in AdultsLong-term Effects Secondary to Cancer Therapy in ChildrenLymphomaSexual Dysfunction and InfertilitySexuality and Reproductive IssuesUnspecified Adult Solid Tumor, Protocol SpecificUnspecified Childhood Solid Tumor, Protocol Specific
Publication Trend
Research publications about FSH over time
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