FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) are two of the most important hormones in reproductive health — and they work together. In women, FSH stimulates egg development each cycle while LH triggers ovulation. In men, FSH supports sperm production and LH stimulates testosterone production in the testes.
Testing FSH and LH together provides a clearer picture of reproductive hormone function than testing either alone. This test is used for:
In women:
- Evaluating irregular, absent, or abnormal menstrual cycles
- Fertility workups — assessing whether ovulation is occurring normally
- Diagnosing or confirming perimenopause and menopause (FSH rises significantly as ovarian function declines)
- Investigating PCOS or premature ovarian insufficiency
In men:
- Evaluating low testosterone and its cause (primary vs. secondary hypogonadism)
- Assessing male fertility concerns
- Investigating low sperm count or abnormal semen analysis results
A single blood draw at any of 4,000+ Labcorp locations nationwide. Physician order included. Results delivered to your private account in 24–48 hours. No insurance required. HSA and FSA eligible.
📅 Last Updated: May 2026 | 🩺 Medically Reviewed by: Edward Salko, D.O., Medical Director | 🧪 Lab Partner: Labcorp
Also Known As
Follicle-stimulating hormone, follitropin, luteinizing hormone, lutropin, interstitial cell-stimulating hormone (ICSH)
Purpose of the FSH and LH Blood Test
An FSH and LH test is a valuable tool if you’ve been struggling to conceive. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are both produced in the brain’s pituitary gland and are key indicators of fertility. In women, FSH stimulates egg production and helps regulate menstrual cycles; in men, it stimulates sperm production. LH also works with FSH and estrogen to help women ovulate and menstruate regularly. Fertility tests such as this one are helpful if you need answers to your infertility questions.
What Does the FSH LH Blood Test Measure?
This test measures the levels of FSH and LH in your blood. (If you want to measure these hormones separately, try our FSH blood test or LH blood test.)
Who Should Take an FSH LH Test?
Measuring LH and FSH in a blood test is advisable for women or men who are dealing with infertility. Women can also take this test if they have irregular menstrual cycles; men may want to be tested if they have low sperm count, decreased sex drive, or low muscle mass. The FSH and LH blood test can also be used by anyone who has symptoms of pituitary or hypothalamic disorders, which can affect fertility. These symptoms include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and a feeling of weakness.
FSH and LH Lab Test Preparation
No special preparation is required before taking this blood test.
FSH and LH Results
For women, high levels in an FSH LH blood test may indicate reproductive issues such as polycystic ovary syndrome or Turner syndrome, which can both cause infertility. High levels also could signify that ovulation has ceased, and a woman may be entering perimenopause or menopause. For men, high test levels could indicate testicular damage or the genetic disorder Klinefelter’s syndrome.
Low test results can point to a pituitary problem in both men and women. Women may also have malnutrition or an eating disorder if they have low FSH and LH levels, while men could also have an issue related to the hypothalamus.
Where Can I Get an FSH and LH Test Done Near Me?
Personalabs makes hormone testing for women and men, including the FSH LH test, easily accessible. The process is simple:
- Visit our hormone testing section, buy the FSH and LH lab test, and download the lab order. (A doctor’s approval isn’t required, depending on the state where you live.)
- Select the lab closest to you for testing. We have more than 4,000 partner labs across the country to choose from.
- Bring your blood work order to the lab and get tested.
- Find your results in your confidential Personalabs account, typically within 2 to 10 business days.
Browse our comprehensive selection of men’s and women’s health tests. You’ll find the tests you need to give you control over your healthcare decisions so you can be proactive in maintaining an optimal state of wellness. Shop our lab tests online today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do FSH and LH measure? FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) are pituitary hormones that regulate reproductive function. In women, FSH stimulates egg development and LH triggers ovulation. In men, FSH supports sperm production and LH stimulates testosterone production in the testes.
When should women take the FSH and LH test? For fertility evaluation, FSH and LH are most informative when drawn on days 2–4 of your menstrual cycle (day 1 = first day of your period). For menopause evaluation or general hormone assessment, cycle timing is less critical.
Can this test confirm menopause? Yes. Significantly elevated FSH (typically above 30–40 mIU/mL) combined with low estradiol and absence of periods for 12+ months is consistent with menopause. Your physician will interpret results in context of your full clinical picture.
Can men use this test? Yes. In men, FSH and LH help evaluate the cause of low testosterone, low sperm count, or infertility. High FSH in men may indicate primary testicular failure; low FSH may suggest a pituitary issue.
Is a doctor’s order required? No. Personalabs includes a physician-approved lab order with every purchase. No insurance, referral, or doctor visit needed. HSA and FSA eligible.
