About Follicle Stimulating Hormone
FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) is released by the pituitary gland to stimulate the growth of ovarian follicles in women and sperm production in men. Elevated FSH in women is one of the earliest markers of declining ovarian reserve and approaching menopause; in men, high FSH with low sperm count points to primary testicular failure. Interpretation depends heavily on the phase of the menstrual cycle in women — a day-3 FSH is the standard fertility measurement.