Luteinizing Harmone(LH)

Description

What is Luteinizing Hormone (LH)?

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) is a crucial hormone produced by the pituitary gland, located at the base ... of the brain. It plays a vital role in regulating the reproductive system in both men and women by stimulating the production of sex hormones.

Purpose of the LH Test

The LH Serum Test measures the levels of luteinizing hormone in the blood. It is commonly used to:

• Evaluate fertility issues in both men and women.
• Diagnose disorders related to the pituitary gland or reproductive organs.
• Assess menstrual cycle irregularities in women.
• Detect ovulation timing in women trying to conceive.
• Help diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
• Determine the cause of early or delayed puberty in children.
• Assess testicular function in men.
• Monitor hormonal imbalances in postmenopausal women.

How Does LH Function in the Body?

• In women, LH triggers ovulation, leading to the release of an egg from the ovary. It also stimulates the production of progesterone, which supports pregnancy.
• In men, LH stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone, which is essential for sperm production and male reproductive health.
• In children, LH levels help evaluate puberty disorders, such as early (precocious) or delayed puberty.

Why is the LH Test Done?

Doctors may recommend an LH test for several reasons:

Women:

• Irregular menstrual cycles or absence of periods (amenorrhea).
• Difficulty in conceiving (infertility).
• Diagnosing ovarian disorders, such as PCOS.
• Evaluating menopause status.

Men:

• Low sperm count and infertility issues.
• Suspected testosterone deficiency.
• Assessing disorders of the testes or pituitary gland.

Children:

• Early or delayed onset of puberty.
• Abnormal growth or sexual development.

LH Test Procedure

• The test requires a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in the arm.
• No special preparation is needed, but some doctors may recommend fasting or scheduling the test at specific times, especially for women (depending on their menstrual cycle).

Interpreting LH Test Results

Normal LH levels vary based on age, gender, and menstrual cycle phase in women.

High LH levels may indicate:

• Ovarian failure (in women).
• Testicular failure (in men).
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
• Menopause.
• Pituitary gland disorders.

Low LH levels may indicate:

• Hypopituitarism (pituitary gland dysfunction).
• Hypogonadism (low sex hormone production).
• Stress-related hormone imbalances.