Luteinising Hormone LH Test
Also Known As
Test Parameters Included
- Serum LH Level: LH is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland in response to signals from the hypothalamus. In women, levels vary significantly throughout the month; a massive spike (surge) occurs 24–36 hours before ovulation. In men, LH levels are relatively constant and are used to determine if low testosterone is due to a testicular problem or a brain signaling issue.
Department
Methodology
Sample Required
Preparation
Schedule Report
12 Hours
Emergency Report
Yes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is LH called the "Ovulation Hormone"?
Because the sudden rise in LH is the specific signal that tells the ovary to release its most mature egg.
Why does the report take 6 hours?
Our automated Chemiluminescence platform is optimized for rapid, high-precision processing to ensure same-day results for time-sensitive fertility tracking.
Does a high LH mean I have PCOS?
Not by itself. However, if your LH is much higher than your FSH (usually a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio), it is a strong indicator of PCOS.
Can I take this test if I'm on birth control?
You can, but the result will be very low because birth control pills work by stopping the LH surge to prevent ovulation.
Is this test better than home ovulation strips?
Yes. Blood tests are quantitative and much more accurate than urine strips, which can sometimes give false positives or stay dark for too long.
Why would a man need an LH test?
To see if his low testosterone is caused by the testicles not responding or the brain not sending the signal.
Can stress affect LH?
Yes. Physical or emotional stress can disrupt the hypothalamus, leading to low LH and missed periods.
Can I drink water before the test?
Yes, plain water is fine.
What is the "LH Surge"?
It is the peak level of LH that happens midway through a woman's cycle. Ovulation usually follows 24–36 hours after this peak.
Does age affect LH?
In women, LH levels rise significantly after menopause as the body tries to stimulate the ovaries.
Why must I stop Biotin?
Biotin is common in "Beauty" vitamins and interferes with the lab's light-detection technology, making results look incorrect.
Can LH be used to detect pregnancy?
No. While LH and HCG are chemically similar, they are different. You should use a Beta-HCG test for pregnancy.
Is this test done on a specific day?
Yes, for cycle monitoring, the day matters significantly. Always follow your doctor's specific timing instructions.
What if my LH is very low?
It may mean you are not ovulating, which could be due to pituitary issues, excessive exercise, or low body weight.
Is the test result confidential?
Yes. At Dr. Patho, we adhere to strict privacy protocols for all hormonal and reproductive health data.
Test Description
Test Code
L20
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