ZRT Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Luteinizing hormone (LH) is produced by the pituitary gland and is a marker used for determining infertility causes, as well as the onset of menopause in women and andropause in men.

In men, LH stimulates the production of testosterone by the testes. LH testing is useful for monitoring androgen activity in men when they supplement with testosterone. Very elevated LH combined with low testosterone often indicates that the testicles are not producing properly. Low LH combined with very low or high testosterone may indicate a problem with the pituitary gland.

In women, LH regulates the menstrual cycle, promotes maturation of the ovum, and stimulates ovulation. Low LH (in combination with declining estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone; and elevated FSH) can point to declining ovarian function and the onset of menopause. In addition, the ratio of LH to FSH levels is used to diagnose Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), which is closely linked to Cardio Metabolic Syndrome.

Symptoms of abnormal LH level in men:

• Lack of energy
• Decreased muscle mass
• Decreased libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Mood swings
• Irritable
• Depression
• Decreased quality of life
• Bone loss
• Low sperm count
• Early or delayed puberty

Symptoms of abnormal LH level in women:

• Inability to get pregnant
• Irregular or absent menstrual periods
• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
• Menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, foggy thinking, and depression
• Early or delayed puberty

What does the Canary Club Luteinizing Hormone (LH) blood spot test do?

For men, this individual test can be taken alone or in combination with any of our hormone profiles to monitor androgen activity when they are supplementing with testosterone. In men with low testosterone, the test can also help differentiate between testicular and pituitary causes of low testosterone. The test can also help determine possible causes for infertility or explain the onset of andropause symptoms.

For women, this test is typically done in combination with FSH to determine LH:FSH ratio, which can be a good indicator of whether a woman is experiencing PCOS. LH is also a marker that (along with declining estradiol and progesterone levels as well as elevated FSH levels) is used for diagnosing declining ovarian function and menopause.

The lab will  email you within 3-5 business days after they receive the samples for on-line access to your results.