FSH or LH Test?

Hi can someone please explain the difference between a fertility test and an ovulation test please.
I know one tests for FSH and one for LH but which is the best to go for.
I am very confused, should I just go for both?

Thank you

[4Angie]

The FSH test they take on cd3 to see what the level of Follicle Stimulating Hormone is.  It is taken by bloodwork.  Anything at 10 or above, they start to get a little concerned.  15 or higher, they get more concerned.  This hormone is necessary for the development of follicles.  Sometimes you can produce follicles, but they are not large enough to be released.  This hormone helps to develop the follicles to be mature.
The LH stands for Luteinizing Hormone and is taken around the time of ovulation through a urine specimen.  The LH can be detected by OPK (ovulation predictor kit) at home.  My RE does it at the office after they do an u/s on me at cd12.  This hormone is what is necessary for releasing the follicle from the ovary.
You should first go for the FSH test to see if you are even developing follicles.  No need to look for LH until you know your FSH level is below 10.  
I hope this helps.  Keep in mind that different REs have different ideas for numbers.  So, you need to ask your doc what they believe.

Good luck!

[loulou29]

Thanks so much for your prompt reply. May I ask another please, I have seen FSH tests to buy on the internet to do at home are these the same or worth it?

Thanks again

[bny807]

I didnt' know they had FSH tests you could buy at home! Not sure if they would be reliable or not.. Do you have an RE to go to that can check your labs? Even an Obgyn should be able to..Also a post-ovulation progesterone is a good idea too, to make sure you did infact ovulate!  GOOD LUCK!

[4Angie]

I have never heard of an at home FSH test either.  Are you consulting with anyone about fertility issues?

[loulou29]

No. I have seen them in the internet. Made by Babystart? It checks for raised levels of FSH in urine.

[4Angie]

Hmmm.  Maybe someone else on here can help with that.  Post another question asking about Anyone having experience with Babystart for checking FSH levels.  You might get a response.  I wish I could help.

[tina1111]

I saw them recently. There was something on the news about them a few months back, too. It is an at home FSH test and it comes with an at home s/a, too. Sells for about $100. I saw them at CVS on my last hpt/opk restocking day, lol.

I have not heard of anyone using one yet, nor good/bad to say. I personally wouldn't recommend it. When you get a day 3 panel done, they don't just check FSH. They check E2 and Lh along with it. Sometimes even thyroid and others. Looking at soley the FSH # doesn't give a clear enough picture. You need the E2 and Lh at day 3 also to see the big picture. The otc test may give a good #, but without all the factors, it's just a #.

[loulou29]

Thank you both for your replies.
I found babystart via a google search and can buy 2 tests for £9.99 but I will try and do some more research.
I am 36 years old and am in a relationship with a 25 year old. He is very healthy but I have a past of ecstasy and cannabis. We have been trying for 4 months and maybe I am being too quick to think their may be a problem, or paranoid so I thought I could just do a home test to get an idea if their is a problem before I go to my doctor.
Thanks again for taking the time to answer my questions.