FSH levels: published reference ranges by cycle phase
FSH results come with a reference range, and the range depends on where you are in your cycle. Below is one hospital laboratory’s published chart, copied as it is listed, followed by how to read it.
FSH only
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FSH reference ranges by cycle phase
These are the female reference ranges for serum FSH from the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) laboratory listing. Units are mIU/mL.
| Female | Reference range (mIU/mL) |
|---|---|
| Follicular Phase | 4 to 12 |
| Ovulation Phase | 5 to 22 |
| Luteal Phase | 2 to 8 |
| Postmenopausal | 26 to 135 |
Source: Follicle Stimulating Hormone, Serum, OHSU. The listing gives no further notes on these ranges. It also lists a male reference range, which isn’t shown here.
People search for a “normal” FSH level. The source calls these reference ranges, and so do labs. MedlinePlus says labs often use different testing methods, so they often use different reference ranges. The range printed beside your result is the one to use.
Why the phases matter
FSH helps control the menstrual cycle, and MedlinePlus says FSH levels change throughout the month. That is why the chart has a row for each phase. It is also why women who have periods may be asked to test on a specific cycle day. The cycle timing guide and cycle timing tool cover this. The lab order or your clinician decides the day.
What high or low FSH can mean
MedlinePlus says a clinician reads the result with your sex, age, symptoms, medical history and other hormone results, especially LH.
Higher than the range. Often a sign of a condition in the ovaries that stops them making normal levels of sex hormones. In women, linked conditions include primary ovarian insufficiency, PCOS, an ovarian tumor, thyroid or adrenal disorders, and Turner syndrome. High FSH is also a normal sign of perimenopause and menopause.
Lower than the range. Often a sign of a problem with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus. In women it may also be linked to rapid weight loss, being very underweight, or extreme exercise.
For FSH in the menopause context, see FSH levels and menopause.
Checking your own level
An FSH-only blood test gives you the number. The seller’s page says it measures FSH only, and does not include LH, estradiol or testosterone, and that results appear in an online account within one to three business days. It says fasting isn’t required, with no cycle-day instruction. Read the result against the range on the report you receive, not against the chart above.
If you also want LH, see the LH and FSH test. For the test itself, see the FSH test page.
What a result can’t tell you
An FSH number can’t name a cause on its own. If your result is outside the range, or your periods have changed or stopped, see a clinician. If you might be pregnant, see a clinician.
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See this test at HealthLabsPrice checked October 2026. Not available in ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD and HI. We earn a commission on sales.
Keep reading
- FSH test: what it measures, why it's ordered and how to prepare
An FSH test measures follicle-stimulating hormone in blood. See why it is ordered, how cycle timing matters, what results can mean and what it can't tell you.
- What is FSH? Follicle-stimulating hormone explained
FSH is a pituitary hormone that helps control the menstrual cycle and egg growth. Learn what it does, why it rises at menopause and when it is tested.
- LH and FSH test: why they're tested together and what the ratio means
LH and FSH are usually tested together. See why, when the LH:FSH ratio is used in PCOS questions, how cycle day matters, and one lab's published ranges.
- FSH levels and menopause: what the numbers mean
FSH rises as the ovaries slow down. See one lab's published postmenopausal FSH range, how it compares with the cycle phases, and what one result can't tell you.