Luteinizing hormone (LH) is a key hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain.
It plays a crucial role in regulating reproductive processes in both males and females. LH is essential to maintain normal hormonal balance.
If you are concerned about reproductive health or hormone levels, consult a healthcare provider who can provide insights and appropriate management strategies.
Functions of LH
Women
- Ovulation – LH surges just before ovulation, triggering the release of an egg from the ovary. This surge is a critical part of the menstrual cycle and signals the transition from the follicular phase to the luteal phase
- Corpus luteum formation – after ovulation, LH helps stimulate the formation of the corpus luteum (a temporary endocrine structure in the ovary). LH supports its function in producing progesterone, which is essential for maintaining the uterine lining for potential pregnancy
Men
- Testosterone production – LH stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone. This hormone is crucial for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics and the production of sperm
Regulation of LH
- Hypothalamus – the release of LH is regulated by the hypothalamus through the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). GnRH stimulates the pituitary gland to release LH
- Feedback Mechanisms – LH levels are influenced by feedback from the sex hormones. In women, rising levels of estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle provide feedback to the pituitary and hypothalamus to regulate LH production. In men, testosterone provides feedback to control LH secretion
LH in women’s health
- Fertility assessment – LH levels are commonly measured to evaluate reproductive health and fertility. For women, testing LH can help determine ovulation timing, while in men, it can assess issues related to testosterone production and sperm production
- Menstrual disorders – abnormal LH levels can be associated with menstrual irregularities, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other reproductive health issues.
- Hormone therapy – LH can be used in hormone therapy treatments for reproductive issues, such as stimulating ovulation in women with fertility problems
Testing LH levels
- Blood test – LH levels can be measured through a blood test. It is often used in conjunction with other hormone tests to assess reproductive health and function
- Urine test – LH levels can be detected through home ovulation predictor kits that test urine
References
- Definition of leutinizing hormone. National Cancer Institute, USA. Accessed 16 July 2024
- Leutinizing hormone (LH). Pathology Tests Explained, USA. Accessed 16 July 2024
- Leutinizing hormone (LH) levels test. MedlinePlus, USA. Accessed 16 July 2024
- Physiology, leutinizing hormone. National Institutes of Health, USA. Accessed 16 July 2024
Last reviewed and updated: 16 July 2024
