In males, normal FSH levels range from 1. 4 to 15. 5 IU/ml. The range for females is much wider, depending on their age and menstrual cycle. To diagnose the cause of abnormal FSH levels, your doctor may look at hormonal panels that compare the level of certain hormones in the body (such as GnRH and estrogen), or they may do a biochemical analysis, which looks at enzymes and other substances that affect the operation of certain organs and glands. In certain situations, you doctor may turn to radiographic methods to diagnose the cause of abnormal FSH levels, such as ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI.
Aging: In females, FSH levels naturally increase during their 30s and 40s as menopause approaches. High FSH levels negatively impact fertility. [3] X Expert Source Joshua U. Klein, MD, FACOGBoard Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist Expert Interview. 20 August 2021. Polycystic ovarian syndrome: With this condition, there are multiple cystic follicles in the ovaries, which leads to the excessive production of estrogens and androgens. High levels of these hormones can significantly lower FSH levels. Hypopituitarism: With this condition, the function of the pituitary gland is suppressed, which can greatly affect the levels of FSH, since this is where FSH is produced. Hypogonadism: As a result of many different syndromes, the diminished functional activity of the gonads (testes in males and ovaries in females) can interfere with FSH levels. Tumors: A tumor in one of several different locations—such as the pituitary gland, the ovaries, or the testes—can cause abnormal FSH levels.
In some cases, you may be prescribed hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT involves using medication in tablet, topical gel, skin patch, or vaginal ring form to adjust the levels of hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. This adjustment can, in turn, improve your FSH levels. Whatever treatments you are prescribed, it’s essential that you follow your medical team’s instructions to the letter. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, get clarifications, or request demonstrations.
The complexity of the surgery and the risks involved will vary greatly based on your specific circumstances. Discuss your condition and your options with your medical team so that you’re informed and prepared.
Talk to your doctor before trying to adjust your FSH levels with any type of dietary, supplementation, or lifestyle change program. Medical intervention is usually the best option, and it’s important for your doctor to be informed about any other treatments you’re using. Good food sources of omega-3 include oily fish (salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines, herring, and anchovies), walnuts, flax seeds, seaweed, and kidney beans, among others. Omega-3 supplements are also available.
Your doctor may advise you to eat at least five portions of these foods per day. This can be done by blending kale into a morning smoothie, eating a green salad for lunch, and including at least two portions of green or sea veggies with dinner. If you’re on a blood thinner, you may need to avoid eating dark green leafy vegetables. Talk to your doctor.
You shouldn’t take more than the recommended dosage of ginseng, as it can affect the blood’s ability to prevent clotting.
Talk to your doctor about taking maca supplements, and what your ideal dose should be.
Vitex can be taken in supplement form, and the recommended dosage is often 900 to 1000mg daily. Be aware that vitex capsules work best on an empty stomach, and therefore should be taken early in the morning before breakfast.
Alternatively, being severely underweight may in some cases decrease FSH levels to such a degree that fertility is negatively impacted. [12] X Expert Source Joshua U. Klein, MD, FACOGBoard Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist Expert Interview. 20 August 2021. Women who are athletes are at higher risk for turning off or shutting down FSH production. [13] X Expert Source Joshua U. Klein, MD, FACOGBoard Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist Expert Interview. 20 August 2021. Generally speaking, a healthy weight is defined as having a BMI between 18. 5 and 25. However, you should always consult with your doctor to determine your ideal weight goals and how best to get there. If you need to lose weight, work with your medical team to focus on healthy measures like exercising more and eating nutritious foods.
To decrease stress, you can use relaxation methods such as deep breathing, yoga, meditation, light exercise, walking in nature, listening to calming music, reading a relaxing book, taking a warm bath, or talking to an old friend. Find the methods that work best for you. Getting enough sleep is another important factor in reducing stress.
You may instead try self-massage to potentially stimulate the glands that manage FSH and other hormones. Try using gentle circular motions to massage your lower abdomen for 10 to 15 minutes each day. If you don’t mind the lack of scientific evidence supporting it, you might also try rubbing the ball of your big toe. In reflexology, the big toe is linked to the pituitary gland, which is essential for balancing hormone production in the body.
Talk to your medical team first if you’re considering doing a fertility cleanse to improve your FSH levels and other fertility markers. Make sure you’re fully aware of any risks involved before deciding whether to proceed.
