Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Blood Test Panel

The Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Blood Test Panel measures FSH & LH levels and helps screen for issues with fertility or reproductive organs, ovulation, or pituitary function.

Description

What is the purpose of this test?

Both follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are hormones associated with reproduction and the development of reproductive organs in women (eggs) and men (sperm). FSH & LH are made by a pea-sized gland found at the base of the brain, commonly known as the pituitary gland. Regulation of FSH & LH production is an intricate system comprised of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and the hormones produced by the reproductive organs (ovaries or testicles). The hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which provokes the pituitary to release FSH & LH. Order this Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Blood Test Panel to measure FSH & LH levels and help screen for issues with fertility and reproductive organs, ovulation, or pituitary function.

What causes abnormal FSH & LH levels?

Several health conditions may cause a malfunction of the hypothalamus, pituitary, or reproductive organs, which can lead to abnormal production of FSH & LH, resulting in various conditions, such as infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, and early or delayed puberty. Abnormal FSH & LH levels may be caused by one or more of the following conditions:

• Damage to the ovaries 
• Radiation exposure or chemotherapy
• Autoimmune disease
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Adrenal disease
• Thyroid disease
• Ovarian cancer
• Pituitary disorder or problem with the hypothalamus
• Viral infection (mumps)
• Germ cell tumor
• Gonadal agenesis
• Klinefelter syndrome
• Brain injury, trauma
• Central nervous system tumor
• Meningitis or encephalitis
• Hormone deficiency
• Turner syndrome
• Eating disorder

When should I order an FSH & LH Blood Test Panel?

This FSH & LH Blood Test Panel is most useful when an individual has one of the following health conditions:

• A woman having difficulty getting pregnant or is having irregular or no menstrual periods
• A man with a low sperm count, low muscle mass, decreased sex drive, or when their partner cannot get pregnant
• Individuals with symptoms of a pituitary disorder or hypothalamic disorder
• A child suspected of having a delayed or earlier-than-expected puberty