Assess Ovarian, Testicular Health And Infertility

Luteinizing hormone (LH) is produced and secreted by the pituitary gland at the direction of the hypothalamus.

• LH works in conjunction with Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) to control male and female sexual development and reproduction.
• LH stimulates testosterone production in the testes and the production of estrogen and progesterone in the ovaries.
• LH and FSH regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle. FSH controls the growth of eggs and LH stimulates egg release.

An LH test may be recommended if you are a male or female and experience symptoms of pituitary or hypothalamic disorders, have fertility problems and other sexual health and reproductive dysfunction.

How It Works

Fill out a medical questionnaire and follow step-by-step instructions to collect your blood spot samples. It only takes about 10 minutes to make a tiny prick in your finger and squeeze one drop of blood on each of the circles included with the kit.

You’ll receive results online in 5-7 days along with a complete report listing LH reference ranges for your age and laboratory comments specific to your symptoms, medical circumstances and reason for the test.

Are Blood Spot Tests Accurate?

Yes. Dried blood spot samples for many hormones including LH have been shown to be as accurate as blood serum.¹

What Is LH Test Used For In Women?

If a woman has not been able to get pregnant after 12 months of trying, an LH test may be ordered. High LH may indicate primary ovary dysfunction, which means the ovaries are not releasing eggs.

• Evaluate ovarian health
• Predict ovulation to enhance the chance of egg fertilization
• Identify the reason for irregular or stopped menstrual periods
• Confirm the start of menopause or perimenopause

LH Levels And Female Ovarian Health

High LH may indicate primary ovarian failure, which means that there is a direct problem with the ovaries. Low LH may mean that a woman has secondary ovarian failure which means the ovaries are not functioning due to another health issue.

LH And Male Testicular Health

LH’s role is to signal testosterone production. Measuring helps identify and rule out causes of infertility, low testosterone (hypogonadism), low sperm count and decreased sex drive.

What Are Symptoms of Pituitary Disorders?

Symptoms include but are not limited to

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Unexplained weight gain
• Muscle loss
• Headaches
• Loss of libido
• Loss of appetite
• Vision problems

What Are Signs of Hypothalamus Disorders?

Symptoms include but are not limited to

• Heat sensitivity
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Sleep trouble
• Loss of sex drive

The hypothalamus is located in the underside region of the brain. Among its many functions, it directs the pituitary gland to produce and release LH and FSH. The pituitary gland is attached to the bottom of the hypothalamus.

Reference

¹ Edelman A, et al. A comparison of blood spot vs. plasma analysis of gonadotropin and ovarian steroid hormone levels in reproductive-age women. Fertil Steril. 2007;88(5):1404-1407. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.12.016