The FSH Hormone

FSH stands for Follicle Stimulating Hormone and it’s essential in the reproduction process for both men and women. This hormone stimulates the maturation of ovarian follicles and is critical in sperm production. This hormone is a type of gonadotropin because it stimulates the gonads. It’s secreted from cells in anterior pituitary glands and acts synergistically with LH (Luteinizing Hormone) in reproduction. They’re at their lowest levels late in the Follicular Phase, and at the end of the Luteal Phase there is a slight increase which is important to begin the next ovulatory cycle.

FSH: THE BOSS

FSH levels can determine things like infertility or other reasons why both men and women body parts aren’t functioning correctly. It regulates the development, growth, pubertal maturation and reproductive processes of the human body. FSH also stimulates the development of the Graafian follicle, which is a small egg inside the ovary.

Men and Women

In women, FSH specifically targets the menstrual cycle and the production of eggs by her ovaries. The amount of FSH varies throughout the menstrual cycle but is always at its peak just before she releases an egg (ovulates). In men it controls the production of sperm and the amount of FSH tends to stay consistent with little or no variance.