FSHhormoner

FSHhormoner, or follicle-stimulating hormone, is a gonadotropin produced by the anterior pituitary gland. In females, FSH plays a critical role in the menstrual cycle. It stimulates the growth and development of ovarian follicles, which are small sacs within the ovary that contain immature eggs. As follicles grow, they produce estrogen, and FSH levels typically rise and then fall during the follicular phase of the cycle. The surge in FSH, along with a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), triggers ovulation, the release of a mature egg from the ovary.

In males, FSH is essential for spermatogenesis, the process of sperm production. It acts on Sertoli cells in the testes, which are crucial for nurturing developing sperm. FSH also stimulates the production of androgen-binding protein by Sertoli cells, which helps maintain a high concentration of testosterone within the testes, further supporting sperm development. FSH levels in males are generally more stable throughout adulthood compared to females. Measurement of FSH levels can be used in diagnostic evaluations for infertility in both sexes, as imbalances can indicate issues with the pituitary gland or the gonads themselves.