LH (Luteinizing Hormone) is a gonadotropin hormone made by the pituitary gland that works closely with FSH to regulate reproductive function.
LH in Women:
LH levels surge midway through the menstrual cycle, triggering ovulation – the release of a mature egg from the ovary. After ovulation, LH stimulates the corpus luteum (the remains of the follicle) to produce progesterone. This LH surge is what ovulation predictor kits detect.
LH in Men:
In men, LH stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone. This continuous production of testosterone is essential for sperm production, libido, muscle mass, and other male characteristics.
LH Imbalances:
High LH with low sex hormones may indicate primary ovarian or testicular failure. In women with PCOS, the LH to FSH ratio is often elevated. Low LH can indicate pituitary dysfunction or hypothalamic problems.
