Skip to content

Serum or plasma substance concentration for 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 that plays a key role in reproductive health.

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
2578-3
Short code
LH Smn-sCnc
Synonyms
LH Smn-sCnc
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 doctor may order an LH test to evaluate fertility issues, check for hormonal imbalances, or monitor conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), ovarian dysfunction, or pituitary disorders. It can also help diagnose or monitor certain cancers, such as testicular or ovarian cancer, in men and women, respectively.

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 involves drawing blood from a vein. If testing urine or saliva, follow any specific instructions your doctor provides.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare provider will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. If testing urine or saliva, you’ll provide a sample in a sterile container.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted based on your sex, age, and medical history. Elevated or low LH levels may indicate underlying health concerns that require further evaluation by a healthcare provider.

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 Level

Frequently asked questions

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal LH Levels?
Abnormally high LH levels may be linked to conditions like ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, premature ovarian insufficiency, or certain tumors. Low LH levels can result from pituitary disorders, hypogonadism, or conditions affecting hormone regulation.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency of LH testing based on your medical needs, symptoms, or treatment plan. Regular monitoring may be recommended if you’re undergoing fertility treatments or managing a chronic condition.
Can Diet or Lifestyle Affect LH Levels?
While diet and lifestyle factors like stress, weight, and exercise can influence hormone levels, LH testing itself doesn’t require strict dietary restrictions. However, maintaining a balanced lifestyle may support overall hormonal health.
  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