Skip to content

Serum/plasma concentration of luteinizing hormone (LH) by immunoassay

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

This test measures the amount of luteinizing hormone in your blood. LH plays a key role in hormone regulation, particularly in reproductive health.

Quick summary

["LH helps trigger ovulation in women and stimulates testosterone production in men."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27883-8
Short code
LH 15M p chal SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
LH 15M p chal SerPl-aCnc
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 an LH test to check for hormonal imbalances, evaluate fertility issues, diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or monitor treatment for hormone-related disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader hormone panel. Avoid smoking or caffeine for 30 minutes before the draw.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is quick and typically painless. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are reported in international units per liter (IU/L). Interpretation depends on your sex, age, and medical history. High or low LH levels may signal underlying health concerns.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Level

Frequently asked questions

How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your provider will determine the frequency based on your symptoms, medical history, and treatment needs. Routine checks may occur annually or less often if stable.
What Can Affect LH Levels?
Factors like stress, illness, certain medications (e.g., birth control, antidepressants), and hormonal treatments can influence LH levels. Avoiding these variables may improve test accuracy.
What If My Results Are Abnormal?
If your LH levels are outside expected ranges, your provider may recommend further testing (e.g., follicle-stimulating hormone, thyroid tests) or adjustments to treatment plans. Follow-up visits are crucial for guidance.
  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