High FSH

FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) is a hormone released by the pituitary gland which stimulates the growth of follicles and has a role in the maturation of oocytes. The measurement of FSH levels in the blood is one of the most widely used tests to assess a woman’s ovarian function and is typically taken on day 2 or 3 of a woman’s menstrual cycle. If a woman’s FSH levels are above what is expected for her age, then she is considered to have “High FSH”.

Given FSH’s role in maturing eggs, you might think that high FSH is a good thing. This, however, is not the case. High FSH, also known as elevated FSH, indicates low ovarian reserve and significantly lower pregnancy chances with In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).

In general, under 6 is excellent, 6-9 is good, 9-10 fair, 10-13 diminished reserve, 13+ very hard to stimulate.

Although FSH can vary cycle to cycle, when working with a fertility clinic they go by your highest number.

There is limited treatments for women diagnosed with high FSH, however, DHEA supplement taken for at least 6 weeks and acupuncture has been shown to reduce FSH.