What is follicle-stimulating hormone?
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), also known as follicle-stimulating
hormone, is secreted by pituitary gland. The production of follicle-stimulating
hormone is controlled by hypothalamic gonadotropin releasing hormone, and
meanwhile is regulated by ovarian estrogen (E2) feedback. Follicle-stimulating
hormone plays a decisive role in the sexual and reproductive functions of men
and women.
![What is follicle-stimulating hormone?](/UploadFiles/2020-04-13/2020041310200559960.jpg)
Through the measurement of follicle-stimulating hormone, we can understand
the pituitary endocrine function, and indirectly understand the functional
status of hypothalamus and ovary. This is helpful for differential diagnosis of
pituitary or hypothalamic amenorrhea. Mainly promotes ovarian follicle
development and maturation. In women, follicle-stimulating hormones stimulate
follicle growth and maturation by acting directly on receptors on granulosa
cells. Similar to luteinizing hormone (LH), high levels of follicle-stimulating
hormone (FSH) indicate that the follicle is about to burst, and can predict
ovulation and the diagnosis of ovulatory abnormalities, as well as the response
to hyperovulatory drugs.