In this article

What is luteinizing hormone (LH)?

Luteinizing hormone (LH) is a crucial hormone that plays a pivotal role in reproductive health. It is responsible for stimulating ovulation in females and testosterone production in males. By triggering the release of eggs from the ovaries and promoting the development of the corpus luteum, LH contributes to the menstrual cycle and fertility in women. In men, LH stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone, an essential hormone for male reproductive function.

Why is LH important?

LH plays an important role in both male and female reproductive health. In both males and females, abnormal LH levels may be indicative of pituitary gland disorders. Some symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, weakness, and a decreased appetite.

For males, the stimulation of testosterone by LH allows for the production of sperm. Infertility, low libido, and low sperm count are a few reasons for testing LH. High LH levels may be indicative of testicular damage or Klinefelter’s syndrome while low LH could point to pituitary or hypothalamic issues.

For females, LH tests are often used to determine the cause of infertility, predict ovulation, and confirm the onset of menopause. LH tests should not, however, be used as a birth control method. High LH may be indicative of PCOS or Turner syndrome. Apart from a pituitary gland disorder, low LH could point to malnutrition or an eating disorder.

How can I better understand my LH levels?

LH tests should be taken on day 3 of your menstrual cycle [1]. 

To better understand your results, you can use the following reference ranges:

  • Females (for day 3 of menstrual cycle):
    • Out of range: 0-1.2 mIU/mL
    • In range: 1.2-58.64 mIU/mL
    • Out of range: 58.64+ mIU/mL
  • Male
    • Out of range: 0-1.24 mIU/mL
    • In range: 1.24-1.8 mIU/mL
    • Optimal: 1.8-8.6 mIU/mL
    • Out of range: 8.6+ mIU/mL

How can I maintain optimal LH levels?

If you need to maintain or adjust your LH levels, consider the following strategies:

Dietary Changes: Following a vegetarian diet and increasing fiber intake can help lower LH levels [2][3].

Lifestyle Changes: If your LH levels are elevated, try regularly engaging in yoga and quitting cigarette smoking [4][5]. Healthy weight loss can aid in regulating high LH levels [6].

Supplementation: If your LH levels are higher than normal, try supplementing with vitamin E [7].

Where can I learn more?

DISCLAIMER: IF YOU ARE CONCERNED WITH ANY OF YOUR RESULTS, PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN.

References[+]