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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:

This diagram shows how hormones control the female reproductive cycle through feedback loops. At the top, the hypothalamus releases a hormone called the Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This hormone signals the anterior pituitary gland to release two more hormones — Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing hormone (LH). These hormones travel to the ovaries, where they trigger the production of estrogen and progesterone. These ovarian hormones then act on the uterus, helping prepare it for a possible pregnancy. The system is controlled by two types of feedback loops. A positive feedback loop increases hormone release when estrogen levels rise. A negative feedback loop slows down hormone release when the levels become too high. Together, these feedback loops keep the hormonal cycle balanced and coordinate communication between the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and the ovaries.

Male hormonal regulation:

This diagram shows how hormones regulate the male reproductive system through feedback loops. At the top, the hypothalamus releases Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the anterior pituitary gland. The anterior pituitary then releases two hormones — Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing hormone (LH). FSH acts on the Sertoli cells, while LH acts on the Leydig cells, both found in the testes. The Sertoli cells produce inhibin, and the Leydig cells produce testosterone. The testosterone provides negative feedback to the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, helping to reduce further hormone release when levels are high. Overall, the diagram shows how the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and testes communicate through hormones to regulate sperm production and testosterone levels.

Referred from:

Article
Hormones responsible for the fertility