Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Introduction

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone produced in the pituitary gland in both males and females. It works with luteinizing hormone (LH) to regulate development, growth, pubertal maturation, and reproductive processes. Abnormal FSH levels can be an indication of infertility.

Pricing

$49

How to order a test

Synonyms

• FSH
• Pituitary Gonadotropin

What is Included?

Measurement of follicle-stimulating hormone levels by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay.

Turnaround Time

1 – 3 business days
The turnaround time is not guaranteed. The average turnaround time is 1 – 3 business days from the date that the sample arrives at the laboratory. Shipping time for the sample is not included. Additional time is required if the case requires confirmatory or reflex testing, or if the sample is insufficient, or if a recollection is required.

Related Documents

Additional Information and Resources

» All about follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
» Perimenopause and postmenopause: what are they?
» Why does female fertility decrease with age?

Special Instructions

Fertility testing in females: Samples should be collected on the third day of the menstrual cycle (third day of menstruation) for optimum results.

Preparation Before Specimen Collection

None

Specimen Type

Blood

Volume

50 μL in a microtainer

Container

Microtainer (regular blood tube)

Collection Method

This test requires a blood sample from a finger prick. All supplies for sample collection are provided in the kit.

1. First wash and dry hands. Warm hands aid in blood collection.
2. Clean the finger prick site with the alcohol swab and allow to air dry.
3. Use the provided lancet to puncture the skin in one quick, continuous and deliberate stroke.
4. Wipe away the first drop of blood.
5. Massage hand and finger to increase blood flow to the puncture site. Angle arm and hand downwards to facilitate blood collection on the fingertip.
6. Drip blood into the microtainer tube.
7. Dispose of all sharps safely and return sample to the laboratory in the provided prepaid return shipping envelope.

NOTES: Avoid squeezing or ‘milking’ the finger excessively. If more blood is required and blood flow stops, perform a second skin puncture on another finger. Do not touch the fingertip.

Specimen Storage

Maintain specimen at temperatures between 2°C and 30°C during storage and transport.

Specimen Stability

Blood samples can be refrigerated or kept at room temperature for up to 7 days.

Causes for Rejection

• Incorrect or incomplete patient identification
• Incorrect specimen collection
• Inappropriate storage and transport conditions
• Incorrect specimen volume

Purpose

To measure follicle-stimulating hormone levels in a blood sample to aid in the investigation of fertility in women, gonadal dysgenesis, and the onset of menopause.

Limitations

• This report is not intended for use in medico-legal applications.
• These results should be interpreted in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical information.
• Correct specimen collection and handling is required for optimal assay performance.
• Assay interference may occur in specimens from individuals routinely exposed to animals or to animal serum products. Additional clinical or diagnostic information may be required for these specimens.
• False results may occur in specimens from individuals that have received preparations of mouse monoclonal antibodies for diagnosis or therapy. Additional clinical or diagnostic information may be required for these specimens.

Methodology

Chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (Alinity i FSH assay)

Reference Intervals

Normal menstruating females
– Follicular phase: 2.0 – 12.0 mIU/mL
– Mid-cycle: 4.0 – 36.0 mIU/mL
– Luteal phase: 1.0 – 9.0 mIU/mL

Postmenopausal females: 26.7 – 133.4 mIU/mL
Males: 0.95 – 11.95 mIU/mL

These reference ranges were obtained from the Alinity i FSH package insert and “Laboratory Reference Ranges” from the Endocrine Society.