FSH
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a pituitary hormone that drives egg maturation in women and sperm production in men.
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is made by the pituitary gland. In women it stimulates the growth of egg follicles and estrogen production in the ovaries; in men it supports sperm production. It works together with LH. Retesting shows how it changes over time.
In women, FSH varies across the menstrual cycle and rises naturally through the transition into menopause, so age and the timing of the sample matter. Hormonal contraception, very hard training, low energy intake, stress and smoking also affect the level.
Foods that help
Regular meals with enough energy, fatty fish, eggs, whole grains, and zinc from shellfish, meat and pumpkin seeds.
Foods to limit
Alcohol, a lot of ultra-processed food and sugar, and very low energy intake over long periods.
Track it through the year
One value is a snapshot. Following it up shows whether what you changed is working.
Related markers
Educational information only — not a diagnosis. Every result is checked against safe limits, and anything critical is escalated for follow-up.
See all 84 markers →