LH (Luteinizing Hormone) Test: What It Measures and Why It Matters
LH is a pituitary hormone. In men, it’s the signal that tells the testes to make testosterone. In women, it triggers ovulation.
What the LH test measures
The level of luteinizing hormone in your blood
Why we check it at Serene
For men with low testosterone, LH helps find the cause. If LH is high, the testes aren’t responding (primary hypogonadism). If LH is low or normal, the signal from the brain may be the issue (secondary hypogonadism). That difference changes the workup and the treatment options.
At Serene Med Spa in Barboursville, West Virginia, every hormone and wellness plan starts with Labcorp lab work reviewed by a board-certified physician.
What your results can mean
Higher than normal
High LH in men usually means the testes aren’t making enough testosterone despite a strong signal. In women, LH rises around ovulation and after menopause.
Lower than normal
Low LH can point to a pituitary or hypothalamus problem, and can also be seen with stress, extreme exercise, being underweight or outside testosterone use.
Normal ranges vary by lab, age and sex. Your physician reads every result together with your symptoms, history and other tests.
How to prepare
No fasting is needed. If you take biotin (vitamin B7) or a hair, skin and nail supplement, tell us first. The FDA warns that high-dose biotin can interfere with some lab tests, including hormone and thyroid tests.
It shows whether low testosterone starts in the testes or in the brain, which guides further testing and treatment.
Yes. Outside testosterone signals the brain to reduce LH, which is why LH is interpreted with your treatment history.
Sometimes, mostly to evaluate cycles, ovulation or menopause.
Have questions about your labs?
Book a hormone and wellness consultation at Serene Med Spa in Barboursville, WV. We’ll review your symptoms, order the right panel and walk you through every result.
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