Which hormone is known as the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)?

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is a key hormone involved in regulating reproductive processes, particularly in the development of ovarian follicles in females and spermatogenesis in males. This hormone is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and fertility.

Specifically, FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, which is essential for ovulation and reproductive health. In males, it acts on the Sertoli cells within the testis to promote sperm production.

While other hormones listed have significant roles in reproductive biology—like luteinizing hormone, which complements FSH in promoting ovulation and testosterone production; progesterone, which is vital for maintaining pregnancy; and estrogen, which is important for the development of secondary sex characteristics and overall female reproductive function—they do not specifically denote the role of FSH. Thus, recognizing FSH explicitly as the hormone of focus allows for a better understanding of its unique contributions to reproductive endocrinology.