Follicular Stimulating Hormone (FSH) - CLIA

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is a vital gonadotropin produced by the anterior pituitary gland that plays a central role in human reproduction and development. In individuals with ovaries, FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. As these follicles develop, they release estrogen a sharp surge in FSH, alongside Luteal Hormone (LH), eventually triggers ovulation.

In individuals with testes, FSH acts on the Sertoli cells to stimulate spermatogenesis (the production of sperm). Because FSH is governed by a complex feedback loop involving the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, testing its levels is a primary diagnostic tool for evaluating fertility issues, menstrual irregularities, or pituitary disorders.