Luteinizing Hormone (LH) by Immunoassay, Serum
This test measures the amount of luteinizing hormone (LH) in your blood serum. LH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a key role in reproductive health, particularly in regulating ovulation in women and sperm production in men.
["LH helps trigger important reproductive changes and may be checked for fertility or hormonal imbalances."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50511-5
- Short code
- LH sp3 SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- LH sp3 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
What Is Luteinizing Hormone (LH)?
Luteinizing hormone (LH) is a critical hormone involved in reproductive function. In women, it triggers ovulation and prepares the body for potential pregnancy. In men, LH stimulates the production of testosterone. LH levels can vary throughout the menstrual cycle and may be influenced by other hormones like follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order an LH test if you have symptoms or conditions related to reproductive health, such as irregular periods, infertility, hormonal imbalances, or signs of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Men may have this test if they have low testosterone or fertility concerns. It can also be part of routine monitoring for certain hormonal disorders.
How Is the Test Done?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed using an immunoassay method to measure LH levels. This process is usually quick and painless, with minimal discomfort. You may feel slight bruising or tenderness at the injection site.
What Does the Test Result Mean?
Results are not provided in absolute numbers here, as reference ranges can vary by lab and individual factors. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your medical history, symptoms, and other test results. High LH levels may indicate conditions like premature ovarian insufficiency in women or certain pituitary disorders. Low LH levels could suggest hormonal deficiencies or other underlying issues.
Reference range
Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A
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
LH Serum
Frequently asked questions
What could cause abnormal LH levels?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect LH levels?
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