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Hormones

LH (Luteinizing Hormone)

LH is a key reproductive hormone that triggers ovulation and supports the menstrual cycle. Monitoring LH can provide valuable insight into your cycle regularity, fertility potential, and overall hormonal balance.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

Reference ranges by group, in U/L
Female · Follicular 2,4–12,6 U/L
2,4 12,6
Female · Ovulatory 14–95,6 U/L
14 95,6
Female · Luteal 1–11,4 U/L
1 11,4
Female · Postmenopausal 7,7–58,5 U/L
7,7 58,5
1 95,6 U/L

Bijsluiterwaarde: 5e-95e percentiel per subgroep (n = 322 mannen; 316 folliculair; 56 ovulatie; 280 luteaal; 132 postmenopauzaal). Een hormoonreferentiewaarde is assay-specifiek; deze waarden gelden voor de Roche Elecsys-methode.

Source: Roche Diagnostics Reference population: Roche referentiecohort (Elecsys LH bijsluiter)

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.

Check your own value

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 women, LH is essential for ovulation and cycle regulation. Understanding your LH levels can help assess conditions like PCOS, support fertility planning, and provide context for menopause transitions.

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

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.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.

Fertility & Pregnancy

IVF Blood Test (Women)

Complete female IVF intake panel: ovarian reserve, thyroid, infectious screening, immunity serology, blood group and CBC.

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Prolactin AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) Chlamydia IgG HIV 1/2 Antibody + p24 Antigen Syphilis Screening Blood Type + Rh Hepatitis B Core Antibody Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Hepatitis C Antibody Rubella IgG Toxoplasmosis IgG Varicella Zoster D-Dimer Complete Blood Count (CBC)
€425,-
Fertility & Pregnancy

IVF Blood Test Complete (Women)

Everything in the IVF panel plus full thyroid, preconception nutrients, progesterone and CMV immunity.

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Prolactin AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) Free T4 (Thyroxine) Folate (Folic Acid) Vitamin B12 Ferritin Progesterone Vitamin D (25-OH) Chlamydia IgG HIV 1/2 Antibody + p24 Antigen Syphilis Screening Blood Type + Rh TPO Antibodies CMV IgG Hepatitis B Core Antibody Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Hepatitis C Antibody Rubella IgG Toxoplasmosis IgG Varicella Zoster D-Dimer Complete Blood Count (CBC)
€495,-

LH (Luteinizing Hormone)

€26,-