In this article, Niketrainers.com.co will tell you:
What is Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)?
FSH is a follicle-stimulating hormone that is produced in the pituitary gland. Its secretion is regulated by feedback. In women, FSH is responsible for the development and maturation of Graff’s follicles and supports the formation ofestradioland progesterone. The maximum concentration is observed in the middle of the menstrual cycle, just before ovulation. High values are also found after menopause, when the function of the ovaries stops.
The concentration of follicle-stimulating hormone in men after puberty is constant. In the male sex, FSH is responsible for the production of sperm and the proteins with which sex hormones are related.
In children, FSH levels – except in the period just after birth, when FSH spikes are observed – are low and increase before puberty.
Increased FSH levels are seen in primary ovarian failure.
Drugs: contraceptives, some hormones and drugs (phenothiazines lower its concentration, while levodopa, cardiac glycosides, and clomiphene-increase its concentration can affect the concentration of FSH).
Normal values in women, taking into account the phase of the menstrual cycle:
- follicular phase 1.4–9.6 IU / l
- ovulation 2.3–21 IU / l
- after menopause 42–188 IU / l
What are the indications for testing FSH concentration?
The indications after testing FSH concentration are as follows:
- diagnosis ofinfertilityin women and men,
- diagnostics of menstrual disorders
- diagnostics of pituitary gland diseases,
- diagnostics of ovarian diseases
- diagnostic of a small amount of sperm in semen (oligospermia),
- diagnosis of testicular diseases,
- diagnosis of abnormal puberty in children (premature, delayed),
- diagnosis of premature menopause.
How is the FSH concentration tested?
Blood is drawn, usually from a vein in the arm. FSH can also be determined in a urine sample or in a 24-hour urine sample.
How should I prepare for the FSH concentration test?
The study does not require any special preparation. In menstruating women, the phase of the menstrual cycle should be taken into account.
What are the complications after the FSH concentration test?
There are no complications characteristic of this test. After blood sampling, hematoma at the injection site, infection, and vessel damage may occur.