FSH · low result
What does a low FSH mean?
Short answer
Low FSH — usually with low LH — means the pituitary or hypothalamus is under-signalling. Common causes are hormonal contraception, low body weight, eating disorders, heavy exercise, stress, high prolactin and pituitary disorders; in men it accompanies secondary hypogonadism from obesity, opioids, anabolic steroids or pituitary disease. It's also normal in pregnancy and mid-cycle just after the surge.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
What is the normal range for FSH?
- Male, age 18+: 1.50 – 12.4 mIU/mL
- Female, age 18+, varies by cycle phase: 1.40 – 25.0 mIU/mL
Full reference table, citations and testing options: FSH biomarker page.
What are the common causes of low FSH?
- Hormonal contraception, hormone therapy, anabolic steroids
- Functional hypothalamic suppression: low body weight, eating disorders, over-exercise, stress
- High prolactin
- Pituitary tumors or damage, hemochromatosis
- Pregnancy
- Opioids, glucocorticoids
What symptoms go with low FSH?
- Absent or infrequent periods, infertility
- Men: low libido, low testosterone symptoms
What do clinicians usually check next?
- LH, estradiol or testosterone, prolactin, TSH
- Review medications and body weight history
- Pituitary evaluation when unexplained
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ($26.99), TSH + Free T4 ($27.99), LH (Luteinizing Hormone) ($36.99), Estradiol (E2) ($35.99), Prolactin ($39.99).
How do you recheck FSH?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Women's Fertility Essentials | Panel · 5 tests | $119.99 | No | 3–5 business days |
| Menopause Assessment Panel | Panel · 8 tests | $179.99 | No | 2–4 business days |
| Women's Hormone Panel | Panel · 11 tests | $239.99 | No | 3–5 business days |
| FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) | Test | $29.99 | No | 2–4 business days |
Common questions
Is a low FSH good for fertility?
Not by itself — a low FSH with a low estradiol and absent periods means the ovaries aren't being stimulated. Fertility assessment looks at the whole axis.
Sources
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.