What role does FSH play in the human reproductive system?

FSH, or follicle-stimulating hormone, plays a crucial role in the human reproductive system, particularly in the development of ovarian follicles in females. This hormone is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and has a key function in the initiation and regulation of the reproductive processes.

In females, FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles. Each ovarian follicle contains an egg, and as FSH levels rise, several follicles begin to develop during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. One of these follicles will typically mature and eventually release an egg during ovulation. The role of FSH is vital for the proper functioning of the ovaries and is closely linked to fertility.

In males, while FSH does have a role in regulating spermatogenesis indirectly through its stimulation of Sertoli cells, the primary hormone involved in testosterone production is luteinizing hormone (LH). Therefore, while FSH is involved in reproductive functions for both genders, its most direct and significant action is its stimulation of ovarian follicle growth in the female reproductive system.