Triple-stimulation (LH, FSH, E₂) hormone response test via oral bolus (serum/plasma)
This test measures your body’s response to a controlled dose of a hormone stimulant, assessing how your pituitary gland releases key reproductive hormones (LH, FSH, and estrogen). It helps evaluate fertility function, pituitary health, and hormone balance.
["Assesses how well your reproductive hormones respond to stimulation, supporting fertility diagnosis or pituitary function evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40375-8
- Short code
- LH 20M p Triple Bolus SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- LH 20M p Triple Bolus SerPl-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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 This Test Measures
The test involves taking blood samples before and after consuming a specific stimulant dose. It measures levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and estrogen (E₂) in your blood. These hormones play critical roles in reproductive health, including ovulation and hormone regulation.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like irregular periods, infertility, or suspected pituitary issues. It helps determine if your pituitary gland is functioning normally or if there’s a hormonal imbalance affecting fertility.
Sample Collection Process
You’ll have blood drawn at multiple time points—before and after taking the stimulant. The blood is processed into serum or plasma for testing. This ensures accurate measurement of hormone fluctuations in response to the stimulant.
Preparation Tips
Avoid alcohol or certain medications before testing, as they may affect hormone levels. Follow your provider’s instructions for fasting or other preparations to ensure reliable results.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Hormone challenge test
Frequently asked questions
This test helps identify whether your pituitary gland is producing the right amounts of LH, FSH, and estrogen in response to stimulation. Abnormal results may indicate conditions like hypopituitarism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or other hormonal disorders that impact fertility or reproductive health.
How long will I need to fast before the test?
What should I expect during the blood draw?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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