FSH and LH analysis for ovulation and menstrual cycle regulation

Do you suffer from irregular menstrual cycles, delayed conception, or unexplained fertility issues?Your doctor may recommend an FSH and LH test, two essential hormones responsible for regulating ovulation in women and sperm production in men. These tests help identify disorders related to the pituitary gland, ovulation dysfunction, early menopause, or even male infertility.
In this article from Dalili Medical, we guide you through a simplified medical overview of the FSH and LH tests—what they are, when they're ordered, how to interpret the results, and how they relate to your fertility potential.

1. What Are FSH and LH, and Why Are They Important?

• FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone): Stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles in women and sperm production in men.

• LH (Luteinizing Hormone): Triggers ovulation in women and regulates testosterone production in men.

These hormones play a vital role in reproductive health. Their levels are measured to evaluate causes of infertility, menstrual irregularities, and hormonal imbalances in both sexes.

2. When Is an FSH and LH Test Ordered?

For Women:

• Evaluation of infertility or delayed conception

• Irregular menstrual cycles (absent, heavy, or inconsistent)

• Early menopause diagnosis

• Monitoring hormone therapy during IVF

For Men:

• Low sperm production (oligospermia)

• Hormonal or sexual dysfunction (e.g., low libido, erectile dysfunction)

• Diagnosis of testosterone deficiency due to testicular or pituitary issues

3. How Is the Test Performed?

• Blood is drawn in the morning (preferably between 8–10 AM).

• Fasting may be required, depending on the doctor’s advice.

• The blood sample is sent to the lab for precise hormone analysis.

• FSH and LH are often tested together for a more accurate hormonal profile.

4. Approximate Normal Values

Note: Values may vary based on the laboratory and patient’s age.

5. What Do the Results Mean?

High FSH & LH:

• Premature ovarian failure (POF) or early menopause

• Gonadal failure (poor ovarian or testicular function)

• Reduced sperm production

• Pituitary gland dysfunction or tumors (occasionally)

Low FSH & LH:

• Pituitary gland insufficiency (hypopituitarism)

• Pituitary disorders (e.g., adenomas)

• Malnutrition or alcohol abuse

• Delayed puberty in teens

6. Common Conditions and Their Hormonal Patterns

7. Diet and Preparation Before Testing

• No need to fast unless advised.

• Best done in the early morning.

• Avoid alcohol and stress before testing.

• Inform your doctor about any medications, especially hormonal treatments or steroids.

8. Tips for Interpreting Results

• Always interpret results in context: age, symptoms, and medical history.

• Combine with other hormone tests (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone) for full assessment.

• Further investigations may include:

  • Pelvic or testicular ultrasound

  • MRI of the pituitary gland

  • Thyroid hormones (TSH) or Prolactin tests

9. Why Are These Tests Important for Couples?

• Identify the cause of delayed conception

• Determine fertility treatment options (e.g., IUI, IVF)

• Evaluate the impact of age or hormonal disorders on fertility

• Serve as the first step before moving on to advanced fertility tests

10. Follow-Up Actions Based on Results

11. Final Takeaway

• FSH and LH tests are essential for assessing reproductive and hormonal health.

• They help diagnose infertility, menstrual disorders, delayed puberty, and more.

• Interpretation should always be done with a healthcare provider, considering the full clinical picture.

• Timely diagnosis can lead to targeted treatment and better fertility outcomes.