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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Hormones

LH (Luteinizing Hormone)

LH is a critical pituitary hormone for athletes, as it regulates sex hormone production that influences recovery, body composition, and training adaptation. Monitoring LH can help detect overtraining-related hormonal disruption.

Reference Ranges

Male
U/L
Low 1.7 Normal 8.6 High
Female
U/L
Low 2.4 Normal 12.6 High

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

What It Measures

This test measures the concentration of luteinizing hormone in your blood. LH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and works together with FSH to regulate the reproductive system, including gonadal steroid production and gamete maturation.

Why It Matters

For performance-focused individuals, LH levels can indicate whether intense training is suppressing the reproductive hormone axis. Maintaining healthy LH levels may support optimal recovery and sustained athletic performance.

When to Test

Testing may be recommended when investigating fertility concerns, irregular menstrual cycles, suspected pituitary disorders, or symptoms of hormonal imbalance. Your healthcare provider will advise on the optimal day of your cycle for testing.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Some people with low LH may experience absent or irregular menstrual periods, decreased libido, fatigue, or difficulty conceiving. In men, low LH may be associated with reduced testosterone production.

High Levels

Elevated LH levels may be associated with polycystic ovary syndrome in women, primary gonadal failure, or menopause. In men, high LH could suggest primary testicular dysfunction.

Recommendations

Male

If Low

Low LH may indicate pituitary dysfunction or secondary hypogonadism. Consider comprehensive endocrine evaluation.

If High

Elevated LH may indicate primary testicular failure. Consult with an endocrinologist for testosterone assessment.

Female

If Low

Low LH may indicate pituitary dysfunction or hypothalamic amenorrhea. Consider evaluation for eating disorders, excessive exercise, or stress.

If High

High LH may indicate PCOS or menopause. If in reproductive age with irregular cycles, consider PCOS evaluation.

Lifestyle Tips

Maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep may support balanced LH levels. Extreme exercise or very low body fat can sometimes disrupt pituitary hormone production. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What role does LH play in ovulation?
LH triggers ovulation by causing the dominant follicle to release a mature egg. The LH surge typically occurs about 24-36 hours before ovulation and is often used to predict fertile windows.
Why might LH levels be high after menopause?
After menopause, the ovaries no longer respond to LH. The pituitary gland produces more LH in an attempt to stimulate the ovaries, resulting in elevated levels.
Can stress affect LH levels?
Yes, significant physical or emotional stress may suppress LH production by affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. This can sometimes lead to menstrual irregularities or reduced fertility.