What are LHRH and FSH?

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. It is important for both male and female sexual development but has important regulatory roles in adults. In males, FSH stimulates spermatogenesis and in females, it has a role in ensuring only the most mature follicle is released during ovulation.

Consistently elevated FSH levels can be an indicator that a woman is going through menopause. Luteinising hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It is primarily responsible for regulating luteinising hormone (LH) and FSH.

In males, these hormones have a variety of roles including stimulating the production of the male hormone testosterone. In females, they are important for follicle development and release during the menstrual cycle. Atypical LHRH during puberty can result in abnormal physical development.

Why take the test?

This test measures the amount of LHRH and FSH in the blood. It can be used as a confirmatory indicator that a woman is going through menopause and to monitor correct hormone production during puberty.