FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone)

Written by Zayn Miah & R KhanomLast updated 17 September 2026Not clinically reviewed

A hormone that stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles, produced naturally by the pituitary gland and also given as an injectable medication during stimulation.

In plain English

It's the hormone that tells your ovaries to grow follicles, both naturally and as one of the main injections used in IVF stimulation.

Why it matters

A baseline FSH blood test can add to the picture of ovarian reserve, and injectable FSH forms the backbone of most stimulation protocols.

Related terms

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Written by patients, not clinicians. This page has not yet been reviewed by a named fertility professional, so it explains published guidance and points you to the original source instead of giving medical advice. It is not medical advice. Decisions about your treatment belong with your own clinic. Read our editorial policy and corrections policy.