FSH is a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary, a gland located at the base of the brain. It plays a central role in sexual development and reproduction.

Production process:

• Hypothalamus : Produces gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland.
• Anterior Pituitary : Releases FSH, which circulates through the bloodstream to reach the reproductive organs, where it exerts its effects.

The functions of FSH vary by age and gender.

For women:

1. Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle:
   • Stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles containing immature eggs.
   • Helps in the maturation of eggs for ovulation.
   • Works with other hormones to synchronize ovulation
2. Estrogen production:
   • Promotes the production of estrogens to thicken the uterine lining in preparation for pregnancy.
   • High estrogen levels regulate FSH and trigger ovulation.

For men:

• Stimulates testicular cells to support sperm production (spermatogenesis).
• Works in coordination with testosterone to ensure healthy sperm production.

For children:

• Girls : Triggers breast development, body hair, and the start of menstrual cycles.
• Boys : Promotes hair growth, voice deepening, and testicle and penis enlargement.

Fetal Development:

• In the fetus, FSH plays an essential role in the early development of the sexual organs.

FSH tests:

• Blood tests : The main method for measuring FSH levels, often included in a hormonal test.
  • In women, the test is usually done on the third day of the menstrual cycle to assess ovarian reserve.
• Urine tests : Used at home, mainly to monitor fertility or menopause. However, blood tests are still more accurate.

Importance of Test Timing:

• Day 3 of the Cycle : Evaluation of ovarian reserve. A high FSH level may indicate a decrease in ovarian reserve.
• Middle of the cycle : Provides information on preparing the body for pregnancy.

Normal levels vary by age, gender, and reproductive stage.

Typical FSH levels (mIU/ml):

1. Before Puberty:
   • Women: 0 to 4.0
   • Men: 0 to 5.0
2. During Puberty:
   • Women: 0.3 to 10.0
   • Men: 0.3 to 10.0
3. Adults:
   • Women :
     • Menstruating: 4.7 to 21.5
     • Post-menopausal: 25.8 to 134.8
   • Hommes : 1.5 to 12.4

Note: Normal ranges may vary slightly between laboratories.

High FSH levels

Causes:

1. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) : Ovarian dysfunction associated with irregular cycles.
2. Klinefelter syndrome (men) : A genetic anomaly causing testicular failure.
3. Turner syndrome (women) : A chromosomal anomaly leading to ovarian failure.

Symptoms:

• Women :
  • Irregular menstrual cycles or lack of periods.
  • Menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, vaginal dryness).
  • Difficulties in conceiving.
• Hommes :
  • Low sperm count or infertility.
  • Absence of secondary sexual characteristics.

Low FSH levels

Causes:

1. Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism : GnRH or FSH deficiency.
2. Kallmann syndrome : A genetic disorder that delays or prevents puberty.

Symptoms:

• Women :
  • Delayed or absent puberty.
  • Irregular or absent menstrual cycles.
  • Infertility.
• Hommes :
  • Delayed puberty.
  • Reduced sperm production.
  • Insufficient development of secondary sexual characteristics.

Complementary tests:

• LH test : Assesses luteinizing hormone levels for a comprehensive assessment of reproductive health.
• Estradiol test : Helps to interpret FSH levels in women.
• Imaging (ultrasound, MRI) : Detects abnormalities in the ovaries or pituitary.
• Genetic tests : Identify conditions such as Turner or Klinefelter syndromes.

Treatments:

1. Diet and Physical Activity :
   • Eat a diet rich in essential nutrients.
   • Engage in regular physical activity to improve hormonal balance.
2. Hormonal therapies :
   • For high levels: Drugs to lower FSH.
   • For low levels: Hormones replacement or hormonal stimulation.
3. Stress Management and Sleep : Techniques such as yoga or meditation to support hormonal production.

Next steps:

• Consult a doctor : Discuss your results for accurate interpretation and tailored recommendations.
• Online tools : Upload your results to medical platforms like Docus AI for personalized analysis.
• Treatment Plan : Follow recommendations to maintain balanced FSH levels and improve reproductive health.