Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No fasting required. Stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection.
- Turnaround: 1-2 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What's Included
Hormones Measured
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that supports the development of eggs in women and sperm in men.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH): A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that works alongside FSH to regulate ovulation and reproductive organ function.
Benefits
- Measures two key hormones involved in reproductive health.
- Helps you understand pituitary gland function.
- Supports awareness of fertility-related concerns.
- Offers insight into menstrual cycle and ovulation patterns.
- Provides information relevant to sperm production in men.
Who Is This Test For?
- Women experiencing irregular or absent menstrual periods.
- Women having difficulty getting pregnant.
- Men with a low sperm count or decreased sex drive.
- Men whose partner has been unable to get pregnant.
- Individuals with symptoms that may relate to pituitary or hypothalamic function.
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this test?
This panel measures two hormones, FSH and LH, that are produced by the pituitary gland and play a central role in reproductive function. Together, they help regulate egg development in women and sperm production in men. FSH and LH work as part of a signaling system involving the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and reproductive organs. Measuring both hormones together can offer a more complete picture of how this system is functioning than either hormone alone.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
This test may be useful for women who are having difficulty getting pregnant or who are experiencing irregular or absent menstrual periods. It may also be useful for men with a low sperm count, decreased sex drive, or whose partner has been unable to conceive. Individuals with symptoms that may relate to pituitary or hypothalamic function may also benefit from this panel.
3. When should I order this panel?
You may consider ordering this panel if you or your healthcare provider want to explore possible reasons behind fertility concerns, menstrual cycle irregularities, or symptoms that could be related to pituitary or hypothalamic function. This test can also be useful for monitoring hormone levels over time. It is not intended to provide a diagnosis on its own.
4. Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting required. Stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection.
5. How quickly will I get results?
1-2 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
6. How do I interpret the results?
FSH and LH levels are often more meaningful when viewed together and in the context of your overall health and symptoms, rather than as isolated numbers. Patterns across both hormones can provide more useful information than a single value on its own. Your healthcare provider is best positioned to help you interpret your results in light of your personal health history.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
7. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If your results fall outside the expected range, reach out to your healthcare provider to discuss what the results may mean for you. They can help determine whether follow-up testing or further evaluation is appropriate based on your individual health history.
8. How often should I get tested?
There is no single testing schedule that applies to everyone. How often you should be tested depends on your individual health history and goals, so it's best to follow up as directed by your healthcare provider.
9. Why early detection matters
Understanding your FSH and LH levels can support earlier awareness of hormone-related changes that may affect fertility or reproductive health. Ongoing monitoring, when recommended by your healthcare provider, may help you stay informed about how your hormone levels change over time.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting required. Stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection.
