Inhibin B

If you wish to explore your fertility, the function of your sex glands, or potential health issues, scheduling an Inhibin B analysis can be the first step towards this. Our team of experts at IntroLab will provide you with all the necessary information and support during this process.

What is Inhibin B?

Inhibin B is a hormone produced in the granulosa cells of the ovaries in women and the Sertoli cells of the testes in men, playing a crucial role in regulating the reproductive system. This glycoprotein inhibits the production and release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary. In women, the level of Inhibin B is directly linked to the number of follicles available in the ovaries, while in men, it serves as an indicator of spermatogenesis.

When is it analyzed and why?

The Inhibin B analysis is used to assess fertility in both sexes, ovarian and testicular function, and to diagnose various health conditions. In women, this analysis is used to:

• Assess ovarian reserve
• Screen for polycystic ovary syndrome
• Determine the causes of infertility
• Serve as a marker for certain types of ovarian cancer
• Monitor premature ovarian failure

In men, low levels of Inhibin B can indicate infertility and various testicular function disorders.

Reference values for Inhibin B

Inhibin B values can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for analysis. For this reason, it is important to choose a laboratory that will continuously monitor Inhibin B levels and provide relevant values for the patient. Typically, expected values for premenopausal women range from 10.0 to 320 pg/ml, while in men, values vary from 11.5 to 369.8 pg/ml.

Reduced concentration of Inhibin B

Reduced levels of Inhibin B can be associated with various conditions and situations. In women, low values of Inhibin B may indicate reduced ovarian reserve, meaning that the number of remaining egg cells is lower than expected for a certain age group. This can be associated with reduced success of in vitro fertilization, increased risk of spontaneous miscarriages, and ovulation disorders.

In men, decreased levels of Inhibin B may signal damage to the spermatogenesis process, which can lead to fertility issues. Additionally, reduced levels of Inhibin B in both sexes can be associated with certain types of tumors, especially those affecting the granulosa cells of the ovaries in women and the Sertoli cells in men.

Preparation for the analysis

No special preparation is required for the Inhibin B analysis. A blood sample is taken from a vein, and testing is usually performed on the second or third day of the menstrual cycle in women. The level of Inhibin B can vary depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle, while smoking and obesity can affect the level of this hormone.