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Luteinizing Hormone (LH) – Plasma, Mass Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of luteinizing hormone (LH) in your blood plasma, a hormone critical for reproductive health in both men and women.

Quick summary

["LH helps regulate ovulation in women and sperm production in men."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1588-3
Short code
LH 1.5h p GnRH SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
LH 1.5h p GnRH SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
1.5
Ref high
9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83002
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate reproductive function, diagnose hormonal imbalances, or monitor conditions like infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or pituitary disorders.

When Might You Need This Test?

You might need this test if you’re experiencing irregular menstrual cycles, fertility issues, signs of hormonal imbalances, or symptoms like low libido or breast tenderness.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but your provider may advise fasting or timing the test around your menstrual cycle if it’s for reproductive assessment.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis of LH levels.

Reference range

Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormally high or low LH levels can indicate conditions such as ovarian or pituitary tumors, premature ovarian insufficiency, or hormonal disorders. In men, elevated LH may signal hypogonadism or other reproductive system issues.

Short name

Plasma LH Level

Frequently asked questions

What Are Normal Results?
There are no specific numeric reference ranges provided here, as they vary by lab and age/gender. Your results will be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times.
Can I Eat or Drink Before This Test?
Generally, no special diet is required, but always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, especially if they recommend fasting for other reasons.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy