What does the Luteinizing Hormone (LH) - LH blood test mean? Get a free analysis of your blood test now. Here's what you get with our free analysis:
Luteinizing Hormone (LH) is a crucial hormone produced by the pituitary gland. In men, it stimulates the production of testosterone in the testes. In women, it triggers ovulation and supports the production of estrogen and progesterone. LH levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle in women. This test is essential for assessing fertility issues, diagnosing pituitary gland disorders, and evaluating gonadal function. It's often used in conjunction with other hormone tests to provide a comprehensive picture of reproductive health and endocrine function.
A low LH level in men may indicate hypogonadism, a condition where the testes produce insufficient testosterone. This can lead to decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, reduced muscle mass, and infertility. In women, low LH can suggest problems with ovulation, potentially causing infertility or irregular menstrual cycles. Low LH might also indicate pituitary gland dysfunction or be a result of certain medications or stress.
Elevated LH levels in men can suggest primary testicular failure, where the testes are not responding properly to hormonal signals. This may lead to reduced testosterone production and associated symptoms. In women, high LH might indicate polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), primary ovarian insufficiency, or the onset of menopause. High LH can also be a sign of pituitary tumors or certain genetic conditions affecting the endocrine system.