Skip to content

Serum or plasma mass concentration of luteinizing hormone (LH)

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

This test measures the amount of luteinizing hormone (LH), a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, in your blood. LH plays a key role in regulating reproductive functions.

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
32606-6
Short code
LH 1h p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
LH 1h p chal 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

What Is Luteinizing Hormone (LH)?

Luteinizing hormone (LH) is a critical hormone involved in reproductive health. In women, it triggers ovulation and prepares the body for potential pregnancy. In men, it stimulates the production of testosterone from the testes. LH is released by the pituitary gland and acts on the ovaries and testes to maintain reproductive function.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order an LH test to evaluate reproductive health, diagnose hormonal imbalances, or monitor conditions such as infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or pituitary disorders. It can also be part of routine testing for men with low testosterone or women experiencing irregular menstrual cycles.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm, by a healthcare professional. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. The test measures the concentration of LH in your serum or plasma using a sensitive immunoassay method.

What Are Common Uses?

Common reasons for testing LH include assessing fertility, diagnosing hormonal disorders, evaluating menstrual irregularities, and checking for conditions like hypogonadism (low hormone levels) or hyperprolactinemia (high prolactin levels). It may also be used in the context of monitoring treatments for hormonal imbalances.

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.

Clinical Significance

Short name

LH Mass Concentration

Frequently asked questions

What Are Normal Results?
There is no single set of reference ranges for LH because they vary by age, sex, and health status. For women, LH levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, peaking just before ovulation. For men, LH levels are generally stable but can vary with health and age. Your results will be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health and medical history.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Test results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on the lab and your healthcare provider’s workflow. You may receive a preliminary result during your visit or will be contacted once the lab reports the final results.
Can LH Levels Change with Diet or Exercise?
LH levels are primarily influenced by hormonal cycles and reproductive health rather than diet or exercise. However, certain medications, such as birth control pills, can affect LH levels. If you suspect lifestyle factors may impact your results, discuss this with your healthcare provider.
  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