LH
Luteinizing hormone stimulates processes that are important for puberty, sexual function, reproduction and sex drive. Together with FSH it signals the sex organs to begin those processes.
Why it matters: A high level can be a sign that the sex organs are not producing enough steroid hormones for a reproductive process to take place. A low level can mean the pituitary gland is not making the LH needed.
Source · Cleveland Clinic — what it is, why it matters, what moves it, related conditions
May increase with:
May decrease with:
What is LH?
Luteinizing hormone stimulates processes that are important for puberty, sexual function, reproduction and sex drive. Together with FSH it signals the sex organs to begin those processes.
What might a high or low LH mean?
A high level can be a sign that the sex organs are not producing enough steroid hormones for a reproductive process to take place. A low level can mean the pituitary gland is not making the LH needed.
What is the typical reference range for LH?
The general-population reference range shown here is 1.7 – 8.6 mIU/mL. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.
What can affect LH?
It may be higher with: Menopause, as estrogen and progesterone fall, Genetic conditions such as Turner, Klinefelter or Fragile X syndrome, Autoimmune conditions, Trauma during surgery. It may be lower with: Kallmann syndrome, Hypothalamic amenorrhea from excessive exercise, stress or poor nutrition, A pituitary gland not making enough LH.