LH (Luteinizing Hormone). Prices, Reviews, Ratings
Luteinizing hormone (LH), lutropin, or luteotropin is a complex protein and peptide hormone synthesized in the anterior pituitary gland. It is produced in both female and male bodies. LH release occurs cyclically. Its concentration is minimal in childhood and increases during reproductive age.
Luteinizing hormone (LH), lutropin, or luteotropin is a complex protein and peptide hormone synthesized in the anterior pituitary gland. It is produced in both female and male bodies. LH release occurs cyclically. Its concentration is minimal in childhood and increases during reproductive age.
General Information
The primary function of luteinizing hormone is regulating the reproductive system.
In women, LH stimulates estrogen and progesterone production and aids in corpus luteum formation. A massive LH surge occurs pre-ovulation. When LH exceeds FSH, ovulation occurs.
In men, LH stimulates testosterone production.
Men’s LH norm remains constant at 1.8-8.16 mIU/mL throughout life. In women, it varies by age and cycle phase:
- Follicular phase – 1.84-26.97.
- Ovulatory phase – 19.61-114.93.
- Luteal phase – 0.61-15.91.
- Menopause – 14.2-52.3.
Three LH concentration states are identified, calculated as the LH-to-FSH ratio:
- Relatively elevated levels in children indicate early puberty; in reproductive age, it suggests polycystic ovary syndrome.
- High levels are normal in menopause but indicate ovarian hypofunction, congenital hyperplasia, or premature menopause risk during reproductive years.
- Low secretion in men affects sperm quality and quantity, leading to hypogonadism; in women, it manifests as amenorrhea.
Low levels may result from hypothalamic tumors or trauma, functional disruptions from starvation, athletes’ amenorrhea, or gonad-suppressive therapy.
Indications for LH Blood Testing
A pediatrician, gynecologist, endocrinologist, or reproductologist orders the test for symptoms and conditions like:
- Absent or irregular menstruation;
- Scanty periods;
- Early or delayed puberty;
- Infertility, miscarriage;
- Reduced potency and libido;
- Uterine bleeding;
- Hirsutism – excessive body hair growth in women;
- Overall growth delay, especially of external genitalia.
The test monitors treatment dynamics for various conditions via hormone therapy.
How LH Blood Testing Is Conducted
Women should test on days 6-7 of the menstrual cycle, in the morning on an empty stomach.
Venous blood is collected in a specialized room. The patient sits in a chair or on a couch, placing their arm on a table or armrest. After a tourniquet is applied, they clench their fist several times to enhance blood flow. The puncture site is treated with alcohol, and blood is drawn with a syringe or system.
Last meal is 8 hours prior; morning water intake is allowed. Avoid hormonal drugs for 10-14 days before. Refrain from smoking and alcohol the day before.
Testing is contraindicated post-exercise or stress; relax for 30 minutes prior.
Turnaround Time for LH Blood Testing
Labs process the test in 4 hours, but results are typically issued the next day.
Prices and Clinics
A list of diagnostic centers offering this service is available on the information website.
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