Article updated: 27th March 2023

FSH, also known as Follicle-stimulating Hormone, is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. FSH regulates the functions of both the ovaries and the testes and plays a pretty important part in pubertal development[1].

FSH levels can vary during the menstrual cycle and they usually peak just before ovulation. That said, some women may experience consistent low FSH levels and symptoms associated with this can include [2]:

  • Hot flashes
  • Irregular or no periods
  • Loss of pubic hair
  • Inability to produce milk for breast-feeding

See also: Can You Promote Hormone Balance?

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Causes of low FSH levels

If you’re experiencing low levels of FSH, it could be a result of a rare disorder called Hypopituitarism - this occurs when you have a short supply of one or more pituitary hormones; this includes FSH [3].

Some causes of hypopituitarism may include [4]:

  • Head injuries
  • Radiation treatment to the head or neck
  • Lack of blood flow to the brain
  • Infections to the brain
  • Genetic mutation

What do low FSH levels mean?

FSH is one of the gonadotrophic hormones - the other being Luteinizing Hormone (LH). FSH is essential in pubertal development and in the function of women’s ovaries and men’s testes[5].

Low FSH levels can have a significant effect on a woman’s reproductive system - it can result in incomplete development at puberty and poor ovarian function; each of which may lead to infertility[6].

See also: What Are The Symptoms of High FSH Levels In Women?

If you are curious about your FSH levels, you can find out more by taking a simple blood test - this can be done with your local doctor or from the comfort of your own home with an at-home lab test.

LetsGetChecked’s Female Hormone Test offers a comprehensive picture of your fertility status and is ideal for anyone who is curious about their hormones. It must be taken on day 3 of your menstrual cycle to ensure accurate results.

Add descriptive tag

At-Home Female Fertility Testing

Understand your hormonal health with our female fertility testing options.

References

  1. You and Your Hormones. Follicle Stimulating Hormone. Online: Yourhormones.info, 2018
  2. You and Your Hormones. Follicle Stimulating Hormone. Online: Yourhormones.info, 2018
  3. Mayo Clinic, Hypopituitarism. Online: Mayoclinic.org, 2019
  4. Mayo Clinic, Hypopituitarism. Online: Mayoclinic.org, 2019
  5. Mayo Clinic, Hypopituitarism. Online: Mayoclinic.org, 2019
  6. Mayo Clinic, Hypopituitarism. Online: Mayoclinic.org, 2019