FSH in Men: Role in Sperm Production & Puberty

FSH, or follicle-stimulating hormone, is a substance produced by the pituitary gland. In post-pubescent males, it is responsible for stimulating the production of mature sperm and certain types of associated proteins.

The Facts

• Both men and women require FSH for proper body function. According to the peer-reviewed testing service Lab Tests Online, FSH production in men is controlled by interactions between the pituitary gland, the testes and an area of the brain called the hypothalamus.

FSH Functions

• In addition to mature sperm, proper FSH levels stimulate the creation of proteins that bind to androgens (male hormones).

FSH Levels

• Normally, FSH levels in post-pubescent males are more or less constant. If FSH production drops, infertility may result.

FSH Testing

• FSH levels are tested through a blood sample. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, normal levels for adult males are 1.5 to 12.4 IU/L (international units per liter).

FSH Therapy

• According to the Mayo Clinic, FSH deficiency may be treated with combinations of FSH and a substance called luteinizing hormone (LH). These combinations are known as menotropins.