Luteinising hormone (LH) has paramount implications in human fertility, particularly in women. LH is secreted by the pituitary gland and regulates the menstrual cycle and causes ovulation, an important process in women's fertility.
Knowledge of how LH functions, its normal and abnormal ranges, and the method by which it is measured can enable women to have greater control over their reproductive life. In women with problems of fertility or menstrual disorders, the determination of LH levels is often a critical step in diagnosis.
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Both women and men secrete luteinising hormone and have different uses for each. In males, LH stimulates the production of testosterone by activating the Leydig cells in the testes. In females, LH is at the heart of the menstrual cycle. It regulates ovarian function by controlling the release of an egg at ovulation. The rapid surge of LH, more commonly referred to as the LH surge, is what results in the release of a mature egg from the ovary, so there is a crucial role played by LH for fertility and menstrual health.
LH levels in women fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle and vary by phase:
This cycle maintains the normal development of the follicle and proper ovulation. Disturbance of this rhythm can signal a concealed hormonal imbalance. LH level monitoring in women is useful in generating valuable information for women desiring conception or treating reproductive diseases of health.
In women with a high level of LH, it may indicate some underlying problems:
Symptoms and signs of elevated LH can be abnormal periods, inability to conceive, hirsutism, and acne. Treatment for elevated LH levels would largely depend on the reason for elevation and may involve management of PCOS through lifestyle modification, drugs such as hormonal contraceptives or metformin, or solving pituitary problems.
Conversely, low LH levels in women can disrupt ovulation and fertility. Reasons include:
Treatments may include missed periods, infertility, or failure to develop secondary sexual characteristics. Treatments may include hormone replacement therapy or a cure of the underlying condition.
LH levels can be tested with a quick blood test, usually suggested when:
Physicians may recommend testing on certain days of the menstrual cycle, typically day 2-3 for baseline hormone assessment or mid-cycle for identifying the LH surge. No special preparation is required, but timing is essential. LH interpretation aids in understanding LH levels in women in perspective, whether it is to verify ovulation, diagnose PCOS, or evaluate menopausal status.
In fertility, LH has a leading role. The LH surge induces the release of an egg and thus serves as a major indicator in ovulation predictor kits. Women who are having assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as IVF are tracked closely for LH levels to better time egg retrieval.
In procedures such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or IVF, inducing ovulation with hCG simulates the normal LH surge. Measuring LH increases the success of these procedures. Therapy for elevated LH and supplementation for low LH in women is also tailored to enhance reproductive outcomes.
Cloudnine Hospitals is at the forefront of women's reproductive healthcare with expert diagnosis and compassionate care for hormonal imbalances and fertility issues. With a team of gynaecologists, endocrinologists, and fertility experts, Cloudnine provides every woman with personalised care supported by state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and laboratory facilities.
Whether you are attempting pregnancy, dealing with PCOS, or overcoming menopausal issues, Cloudnine empowers you at every stage of womanhood. From precise LH testing to customised solutions, Cloudnine is more than healthcare—it is hope, care, and solutions.
Luteinising hormone is far more than a biological marker; it’s a window into a woman’s reproductive health. Whether you’re exploring fertility options, trying to understand irregular cycles, or navigating hormonal disorders, knowing your LH status is a crucial step.
Abnormal LH, characterised by either high levels of LH in women or low levels, may affect not only fertility but also hormonal balance overall. Proper diagnosis and customised treatment for excess LH or assistance for deficient LH can bring back health and reproductive capabilities.
If you're experiencing issues with your menstrual cycle or fertility, book an LH checkup with Cloudnine. Our team of experts will help you understand your hormones and guide you towards a healthier, empowered life.
