Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) blood test results are used to measure the fertility capacities for reproduction in men and women. This test has several uses which include a look at egg development and sperm motility. The results can then be used by a medical provider to determine what may be the cause of an infertility issue, discover the cause of reproductive dysfunction, or help to solidify a diagnosis for a pituitary or hypothalamus issue.
Women may also have the FSH and LH blood test ordered to determine what may be causing menstrual irregularities if they happen on a regular basis. Some women may also have this test ordered to either predict or confirm the start of menopause.
The FSH and LH blood test is also useful for children who are having an irregular timing of puberty onset. It can help a medical provider detect a potential issue with the child’s hypothalamus, reproductive glands, or other systems that contribute to the body changes that occur. It can also determine if there is a benign issue causing the problem or if there is a disease that needs to be treated.
When To Speak With a Doctor About the FSH & LH Blood Test
Women should speak to their doctor and the FSH and LH blood test if they are having problems getting pregnant and have been trying for several months. Women who do not have menstrual periods or have irregular periods should also discuss this blood test with their doctor.
Men should speak to their doctor about this blood test if they are unable to get their partner pregnant and testing confirms it isn’t a health issue with their partner. If a low sperm count has been detected or if there is a decreased sex drive that is accompanied by a shrinking muscle mass, men should also think about scheduling an appointment.
The signs and symptoms of a pituitary gland disorder should also be evaluated by a medical professional. This includes: weakness, weight loss, decreased appetite, and persistent fatigue.
What Do the FSH and LH Blood Test Results Mean?
Most medical providers will order this blood test with other hormone tests to look at testosterone and estrogen levels. If the test is ordered as part of a fertility evaluation, then high or low levels may indicate a failure of the reproduction system. It can help a doctor distinguish between a complete failure of the ovaries and testicles or if there is a secondary failure responsible for the issue, such as one caused by the pituitary gland.
It may also be used to detect the presence of radiation exposure, the effectiveness of chemotherapy, or an autoimmune disease. Chomosomal abnormalities, such as Turner syndrome, may also be detected with this blood test. Low levels may be an indication of injury, the presence of mumps, germ cell tumors, and have an increased risk of a cancer within the reproductive system.
In children, the FSH and LH blood test results mean there may be the presence of a tumor or a cyst. There may also be a brain injury from trauma or infection. Some children who receive a brain surgery will have abnormal results.
Here’s What You Need To Know
Certain medications and drugs will affect the FSH and LH blood test results. High results may occur when taking certain medications that are used to stimulate the reproductive system. Lower results may be seen when taking oral contraceptives or receiving certain hormone treatments. Women who have a confirmed pregnancy will normally have decreased results.
Women typically receive more of these blood tests over time than men because the concentrations of these hormones can change frequently. Men will typically have this test ordered for them just once if there is a suspected reproductive issue. Women may have this test ordered on a monthly basis in comparison.
Certain physical examinations may accompany each FSH and LH blood test as well. This includes imaging of the fallopian tubes to test for blockage. Men may be asked to provide a semen sample. Hormonal tests after having sexual intercourse may also be necessary for a complete picture of health in this area.
Home tests are also available to measure FSH in urine samples if the FSH and LH blood test is not preferred.
The FSH and LH blood test provides information that can help couples find a way to become pregnant. It can also help doctors understand why children may be entering puberty early or have a delayed puberty entry. This allows a treatment plan to be developed so that the best possible outcome can potentially be achieved.