Follicle stimulating hormone

Release of GnRH from the hypothalamus stimulates the production of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) from the anterior pituitary gland.

FSH controls different parts of the reproductive processes in male and female individuals, as shown in the figures below.

Androgens, such as testosterone, are usually higher in males but are also necessary for the synthesis of estrogens in females. Increased levels of androgens may impact the release of GnRH from the hypothalamus via a negative feedback loop. This leads to a decrease in FSH production.

Female hormonal regulation:

Male hormonal regulation: