Follicle stimulating hormone, also known as FSH hormone, is responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle. It is a sex hormone released by the pituitary gland and exerts its function on the ovary, promoting the development of follicles.
FSH levels in the blood can give an indication of a woman's ovarian reserve. However, it is important that the analysis should be performed on day 3-5 of the menstrual cycle.
When a patient has FSH levels below 6 mIU/mL, her ovarian reserve is very good. However, patients with FSH between 10-13 mIU/mL would have a diminished ovarian reserve.
If FSH levels exceed 13 mIU/mL, the woman is reaching the end of the reproductive stage and it will be difficult to achieve a pregnancy with her own eggs, since she is nearing menopause.
