Taking Care Of Myself Naturally

Follicle Stimulating Hormones: What Are They And Can You Lower Them?

by Amelia Graves

Your follicle stimulating hormone, or FSH, can directly impact your fertility. Although it is not the only determining factor in whether or not you can conceive, it plays an important role. If you have high FSH, it is important that you understand how it can affect your ability to conceive children and what you can do about it.

What Is the Follicle Stimulating Hormone?

The follicle stimulating hormone gives the signals to your ovaries that it is time to produce eggs. The hormone is released by your pituitary gland during the beginning of your menstrual cycle. Women who have significantly high rates of FSH can have trouble producing eggs. In fact, they can possibly lose ovarian function altogether. Ideally, your levels should be 4.7 to 21.5 mIU/ml during your cycle. Your OB-GYN can conduct a test to determine whether or not your rates are normal or abnormal.

How Is High FSH Treated?

Fertility drugs can help to induce and regulate ovulation if your FSH levels are too high. The type of fertility drug that your OB-GYN prescribes depends on how high your FSH levels are. Your doctor will also determine how long you need to use the drugs to get the maximum effect.

For instance, Clomid can be used to regulate your FSH levels, which is important to the production of eggs. The drug is only available to use for a limited number of cycles since conception is more likely to occur within the first three cycles in which it is used.

How Can You Naturally Lower FSH Levels?

Some herbal supplements and lifestyle changes have been purported to help lower the high FSH levels. Herbs, such as red clover and chaste berry, have been used to lower FSH naturally in the past. However, there is very little scientific evidence to support this claim. 

Other natural remedies include the use of acupuncture. The acupuncture can be used as part of a natural treatment plan that includes the use of herbs. Your FSH rates could also possibly be impacted by eating a healthier diet that is low in trans fats and rich in vegetables. Reducing stress is also recommended. Stress reduction techniques can include massage therapy, meditation, and yoga.

If you are planning to pursue a natural remedy for high FSH levels, it is important that you talk to your OB-GYN first. Some herbal supplements can interfere with other treatments that your doctor recommended. The OB-GYN can also ensure that your overall health is good enough to benefit from the use of alternative treatments.

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