follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH; follitropin) A hormone, secreted by the anterior pituitary gland in mammals, that stimulates, in female mammals, ripening of specialized structures in the ovary (Graafian follicles) that produce ova and, in males, the formation of sperm in the testis. It is a major constituent of fertility drugs, used to treat failure of ovulation and decreased sperm production. See also gonadotrophin.

follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) A proteinaceous, gonadotropic hormone (see GONADOTROPIN) secreted by the anterior pituitary (adenohypophysis) that stimulates spermatogenesis in the testis and the growth of follicles in the ovary.

follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) Hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland found in the brain of mammals. In females, it regulates ovulation by stimulating the Graafian follicles found in the ovary to produce eggs (ova). In males, FSH promotes spermatogenesis. FSH is an ingredient in most fertility drugs.

follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) n. a hormone (see gonadotrophin) synthesized and released by the anterior pituitary gland. FSH stimulates ripening of the follicles in the ovary and formation of sperm in the testes. It is administered by injection to treat sterility.