LH Blood Test and Reference Range

This is a fertility hormone secreted by the pituitary. In women, it acts on the ovaries to regulate ovulation. LH induces ovulation. It also luteinizes the follicle after ovulation.

In men, it helps the testes to make and secrete testosterone.

When Is It Required?

• In work up for infertility
• Menstrual irregularities
• Suspected disorders of pituitary
• Gonadal disorders

It is often done along with FSH levels. FSH or follicle stimulating hormone is also secreted by the pituitary.

Preparing for the Test

Some drugs can cause Luteinizing hormone to increase, such as anticonvulsants, clomiphene, and naloxone, while others cause LH to decrease, such as digoxin, oral contraceptives, and hormone treatments.

So inform your doctor about all medications you are taking before going for this test.

Also, stop taking any hormonal pills like oral contraceptives at least 4 weeks prior to this test.

Interpreting the Test

In general, high levels of Luteinizing hormone implies that the pituitary has to secrete more of it to maintain fertility. This implies that there may by some problem in the ovary (in females) or testes (in male).

Normal Levels

In males over 18 years of age, average normal range is estimated to be 1.8-8.6 IU/L
For an adult female, the normal value range is 5 to 25 IU/L. Levels peak around the middle of the menstrual cycle.

LH Lab Report Checker