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Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Levels

Meaning

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Levels represent the concentration of this critical glycoprotein gonadotropin hormone, secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, circulating in the bloodstream. In women, FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, while in men, it is essential for initiating and maintaining spermatogenesis within the testes. Clinically, chronically elevated FSH levels often indicate reduced gonadal function, signifying that the pituitary is working harder to stimulate a less responsive ovary or testis. Assessing these levels is a primary diagnostic tool in evaluating fertility, reproductive aging, and the integrity of the HPG axis.