Follicle-stimulating hormone, or FSH, is a biologically active substance that is produced by the pituitary gland. In the body in women, this hormone is involved in the formation and maturation of oocytes, the synthesis of estrogens. In other words, follicle-stimulating hormone (or abbreviated FSH) affects the formation and growth of the follicle, is responsible for ovulation.
The normal level of follicle-stimulating hormone, depending on the specific phase of the menstrual cycle, is of different importance. Thus, in the follicular phase this figure varies between 2.8-11.3 mU / L, for ovulation it is characteristic - 5.8-21 mU / L, and the subsequent decrease to 1.2-9 mU / L is noted in the luteal phase .
As a rule, the analysis for the concentration of FSH is taken from the third to the fifth day of the menstrual cycle. Before giving the analysis, doctors recommend to exclude too intense physical stress, stressful situations, 30 minutes before taking biological material (in this case, blood serum) without smoking. It is impossible to conduct research during acute diseases. The obtained value of FSH and its compliance with the norm can become a bright marker of the reproductive system.
Follicle-stimulating hormone is elevated
An increased level of follicle-stimulating hormone can be a consequence of such pathological processes:
- functional failure of the ovaries;
- pituitary tumor (very rare);
- endometriotic cysts ;
- neglected form of alcoholism;
- the result of exposure to X-rays.
Patients who have increased follicle-stimulating hormone concentration may complain of a lack of monthly or intermenstrual bleeding of unclear etiology, in which case a more detailed examination should be made and, depending on the diagnosis, prescribe treatment with special medications.
In addition to the analysis for the level of follicle-stimulating hormone, it is also necessary to determine the ratio of FSH and luteinizing hormone. This indicator is fundamentally important for assessing the functional state of the reproductive system and possible deviations.
For example, until the sexual maturation is complete, the ratio of LH and FSH is 1: 1, in the reproductive age, the LH value may exceed the FSH by 1.5-2 times. If the ratio of the ratio of these two hormones is 2.5 or more, then one can be suspected:
- syndrome of polycystic ovaries or their exhaustion;
- a pituitary tumor.
This trend is typical for women up to the climacterium period. If the level of follicle-stimulating hormone is increased in women of the menopause period, this phenomenon is considered the limit of the norm and does not require treatment.
Follicle-stimulating hormone lowered
Most often, a lowered level of follicle-stimulating hormone in the blood serum is observed in women with obvious signs of obesity, polycystic ovaries and disturbances in the hypothalamus. As a result, the following problems occur:
- absence of ovulation and menstruation;
- infertility;
- atrophy of secondary sexual characteristics.
FSH can be lowered during pregnancy, after surgery and taking certain medications.
Follicle-stimulating hormone in men
Follicle-stimulating hormone is present in the male body, where its action is directed to stimulate the growth of the vas deferens, increase the production of testosterone. In other words, it contributes to the maturation of spermatozoa, affects the sexual desire. The normal level of FSH in men is constant and can be in the range of 1.37-13.58 honey / l. Any deviations from the norm also indicate a violation of the reproductive function.