HOW IS FOLLICLE STIMULATING HORMONE USED IN FERTILITY?

What Is Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)?

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is a natural hormone that is used in the development of egg (follicles) that is produced in the ovaries. It is also useful in sperm development.

When Is FSH Used?

Follicle Stimulating Hormone should be used for benefits such as;

• To stimulate the growth of follicles (eggs)
• The FSH is also used to stimulate multiple egg development duringr In Vitro Fertilization.
• Can be used in men to increase sperm production.

What Are the Side Effects associated with Use of Follicle Stimulating Hormone?

The patient should seek medical attention, stop using the FSH and notify the doctor if you experience the following conditions:

• Warmth, redness, pain, leg or arm tingling or numbness

• Severe dizziness, headache or confusion

• Allergic reactions (swelling of tongue face, lips or hives; throat closing and difficulty breathing)

At least 5 % of people treated with FSH experience ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome(OHSS) after their first cycle. The symptoms of OHSS include:

• Abdominal swelling
• Low urine output

• Vomiting or nausea
• Diarrhea
• Difficulty in Breathing
• Severe pelvic pain

Other side effects include;

• Breast tenderness
• Joint or muscle aching or weakness
• Hair loss, rash or dry skin
• Menstrual changes or spotting
• Fever or chills
• Ovarian enlargement

How Do I Prepare When I Need To Take FSH Test?

Medications such as clomiphene, levodopa, digitalis and cimetidine can alter the test results. Your doctor may request you to refrain from taking drugs that contain high levels of progesterone and estrogen or both before making the FSH. To be on the safe side, ask the doctor to prescribe a list of over- the-counter medicines can work together with the Follicle Stimulating Hormone.

Also, inform your doctor in case you have undergone a radioactive substance tracer test in the past few days. A radioactive tracer tests includes a bone or thyroid scan that can alter with the result of the Follicle Stimulating Hormone.