Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test - Serum

What Is an FSH Test?

An FSH Test (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Test) is a blood test that measures the level of FSH, a hormone produced by your pituitary gland that plays a vital role in regulating reproductive health. Doctors use this test to evaluate fertility, assess ovarian and testicular function, diagnose menstrual or pituitary disorders, and confirm menopause. In children, the test helps identify puberty-related hormonal issues.

The FSH hormone controls egg development in women and sperm production in men. It is often performed alongside an LH (Luteinising Hormone) test for a more complete picture of reproductive and hormonal function.

The test involves a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm, and fasting is not required.

What Does an FSH Test Measure?

The FSH Test measures the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in your bloodstream to evaluate how well your reproductive organs and pituitary gland are functioning.

It helps assess:

• Ovarian Function (in Women): Checks how well your ovaries are releasing eggs and whether menopause is approaching.
• Testicular Function (in Men): Evaluates how effectively the testes are producing sperm.
• Infertility Causes: Detects hormonal imbalances affecting conception in both men and women.
• Menstrual Disorders: Identifies irregular or absent periods, premature ovarian failure, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
• Pituitary Function: Determines whether your pituitary gland is releasing appropriate hormone levels.
• Puberty Issues: Helps diagnose delayed or early puberty in children.

FSH Test: Who Needs It and Why It’s Done

What Symptoms May Call for an FSH Test?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you experience:

• Difficulty conceiving or infertility
• Irregular, missed, or heavy menstrual periods
• Hot flashes, night sweats, or other menopausal symptoms
• Low libido or testicular issues in men
• Early or delayed signs of puberty in children
• Unexplained hormonal or pituitary symptoms

Who Should Get an FSH Test?

• Women with menstrual irregularities, suspected menopause, or fertility issues
• Men with low sperm count, testicular disorders, or infertility concerns
• Children showing abnormal signs of early or late puberty
• Individuals with suspected pituitary or hypothalamic disorders
• Couples undergoing fertility assessments or treatment

Why Is an FSH Test Done?

The FSH Test helps your doctor identify the root cause of hormonal or reproductive problems. It supports diagnosis and management of infertility, menstrual cycle disorders, menopause, and pituitary dysfunctions.

Importance of an FSH Test

• The FSH Test provides essential insight into your hormonal balance and reproductive health.
• By evaluating how well your pituitary gland regulates the ovaries or testes, doctors can diagnose infertility, confirm menopause, detect puberty-related abnormalities, and manage pituitary disorders.
• It is also used to guide fertility treatments and monitor hormone therapy effectiveness, helping your doctor create a personalised care plan tailored to your needs.

FSH Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare

How to Book the FSH Test and Get Your Reports?

1. Simple Online Booking
   You can book the FSH Test through the Metropolis Healthcare website or app. Choose your preferred time slot for home sample collection or visit the nearest Metropolis Lab for an in-person test.
2. Safe Home Sample Collection
   Our expert phlebotomists visit your home to collect your blood sample safely while following strict hygiene and safety protocols.
3. Sample Tracking
   Stay updated throughout the process — from collection to testing — using the Metropolis Healthcare app or website.
4. Accurate Laboratory Testing
   Your sample is analysed at NABL & CAP accredited laboratories using the Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA) method for highly accurate results.
5. Quick Report Delivery
   Receive your results via email, WhatsApp, or download them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.

Is Home Sample Collection for FSH Test Available Near You?

Yes. Metropolis Healthcare offers home sample collection for the FSH Test at your convenience. Our trained phlebotomists ensure a smooth, safe, and hassle-free experience — saving you time and reducing the need for lab visits.

How Long Does It Take to Get an FSH Test Report?

Reports are usually available within 6 hours once your sample reaches the lab.
Note: Reporting time and cost may vary based on your location.

Where Can I See or Get FSH Test Results?

You can view and download your FSH Test report via:

• The Metropolis Healthcare website
• The Metropolis App
• Email or WhatsApp delivery

You can also collect a printed copy from your nearest Metropolis laboratory.

Interpreting FSH Test Results

What Your FSH Test Results May Indicate

Understanding Abnormal FSH Test Results by Parameter

How Should You Prepare for an FSH Test?

To ensure accurate results, follow these simple steps:

• No fasting required: You can eat and drink normally.
• Avoid Biotin supplements: Stop taking high-dose Biotin (>5 mg/day) at least 8 hours before your test.
• Cycle timing (for women): Ideally, have the test done on day 3 of your menstrual cycle, unless otherwise advised.
• Inform your doctor: Share all medications, hormone treatments, or supplements you’re taking.
• Stay hydrated: Drink water normally before the test for smooth sample collection.

How Is an FSH Test Done? (Step-by-Step Procedure)

The FSH Test involves a simple and quick blood collection process:

• Preparation: No fasting required before the test.
• Cleaning: The puncture site on your arm is cleaned using an antiseptic.
• Blood Draw: A sterile needle is inserted into your vein to collect the sample.
• Sample Collection: About 3 ml of blood is drawn into a gel vacutainer.
• Completion: The needle is removed, and a small bandage is applied.
• Processing: The sample is tested using ECLIA technology to measure hormone levels accurately.

Conditions That May Affect FSH Test Accuracy

Certain factors can influence FSH levels and test accuracy:

• High-dose Biotin supplements (>5 mg/day) may interfere with immunoassay results.
• Hormone medications (like birth control or oestrogen therapy) can alter results.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding naturally changes hormone levels.
• Recent severe illness or stress can temporarily affect pituitary function.
• Timing of test in the menstrual cycle affects results in women.

Diseases That an FSH Test Can Help Detect

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Premature or primary ovarian failure
• Menopause or perimenopause
• Pituitary gland disorders
• Testicular failure
• Delayed or early puberty
• Infertility and reproductive hormonal disorders