HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Luteinizing Hormone
Test Overview
A luteinizing hormone test measures the amount of luteinizing Reference hormone Opens New Window (LH) in a sample of blood or urine. LH is produced by the Reference pituitary gland Opens New Window.
- In women, LH helps regulate the Reference menstrual cycle Opens New Window and egg production (Reference ovulation Opens New Window). The level of LH in a woman's body varies with the phase of the menstrual cycle. It increases rapidly just before ovulation occurs, about midway through the cycle (day 14 of a 28-day cycle). This is called an LH surge. Luteinizing hormone and Reference follicle-stimulating hormone Opens New Window levels rise and fall together during the monthly menstrual cycle.
- In men, LH stimulates the production of Reference testosterone Opens New Window, which plays a role in sperm production.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference May 18, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Femi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
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