FSH Blood Test in Croydon

What it measures

• FSH (follicle stimulating hormone)

Who it’s for

• Trying to conceive
• Irregular or missed periods
• Menopause symptoms under the age of 45
• Men investigating fertility

What your FSH level means

Early in your cycle FSH is normally fairly low. As the number of eggs left in your ovaries falls, your brain releases more FSH to get a response, so a raised day 2 to 5 FSH can suggest lower ovarian reserve or the approach of menopause. Because FSH changes from cycle to cycle, especially in your 40s, one result is a snapshot rather than a verdict.

FSH and the menopause

For women over 45 with typical symptoms, NHS guidance is to diagnose perimenopause from symptoms alone, without a blood test. FSH is most useful if you’re under 45 with symptoms, or if you want more information about what’s happening. Hormonal contraception and HRT affect the result.

How to prepare

• If you have periods, book for day 2 to 5 of your cycle (day 1 is the first day of full bleeding). If your periods are irregular or have stopped, any day is fine.
• Stop biotin (vitamin B7) supplements, often found in hair, skin and nail products, 48 hours before.
• No fasting needed. Eat and drink as normal.

How it works at our Croydon clinic

1. Book online

   Choose your test and a time that suits you. No GP referral needed.

2. A 15-minute visit

   A trained clinician takes a small blood sample at 169 Shirley Road, Croydon. Tell us if you’re nervous.

3. Results in 1–3 days

   A clear report showing each result against its reference range.

4. Next steps

   Share your report with your GP, who can arrange NHS follow-up if anything needs it.

Questions