What is LH? Your Complete Guide
Luteinizing Hormone (LH) is produced by the pituitary gland and plays a crucial role in reproduction. In women, an LH surge triggers ovulation. In men, LH stimulates testosterone production. It works in partnership with FSH.
💡Simply Explained
LH is like a coach blowing a whistle. In girls, the whistle tells the egg to pop out of the ovary each month. In boys, it tells the body to make testosterone. Without the whistle, the players don't know when to start!
📏Normal Range
Typical reference range. Your lab may use slightly different values.
⬆️What High LH Means
Possible Causes
- PCOS (elevated LH with normal/low FSH — the classic ratio)
- Menopause or premature ovarian failure
- Primary hypogonadism in men (testicular failure)
- Pituitary tumour (rare)
- Turner syndrome or Klinefelter syndrome
Foods That Can Help
- Maintain a healthy weight — obesity worsens LH imbalance in PCOS
- Reduce refined carbs and sugar
- Anti-inflammatory foods: turmeric (haldi), ginger, green tea
- Spearmint tea (shown to help reduce androgens in PCOS)
- High-fibre foods: oats, whole wheat, vegetables
⬇️What Low LH Means
Possible Causes
- Pituitary gland disorder or damage
- Hypothalamic dysfunction (stress, extreme weight loss)
- Kallmann syndrome
- Excessive exercise (especially in female athletes)
- Anorexia or severe malnutrition
Foods That Can Help
- Adequate calorie intake — undereating suppresses LH
- Healthy fats: ghee, almonds, walnuts (needed for hormone production)
- Zinc-rich foods: pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, lentils
- Ashwagandha — may support pituitary function
- Balanced protein: eggs, paneer, dals
🏃Lifestyle Actions
If Your LH Is High
- Get LH:FSH ratio evaluated — classic PCOS shows ratio >2:1
- Test testosterone and DHEA-S if PCOS suspected
- Follow up with a gynaecologist or endocrinologist
- Monitor ovulation if trying to conceive
- Manage insulin resistance if present (common in PCOS)
If Your LH Is Low
- Ensure you are eating enough — caloric restriction suppresses LH
- Reduce extreme exercise intensity
- Manage stress through yoga, meditation, or counselling
- See an endocrinologist to evaluate pituitary function
- If trying to conceive, fertility treatment may be needed
🩺When to See a Doctor
High LH
In women with PCOS, elevated LH is part of the diagnostic picture — see a gynaecologist if periods are irregular. In men, high LH with low testosterone suggests testicular dysfunction — see an endocrinologist within 2-4 weeks.
Low LH
Low LH with absent periods, infertility, or low testosterone warrants evaluation by an endocrinologist within 2-4 weeks. If caused by excessive dieting or exercise, address the underlying behaviour urgently to prevent long-term bone and reproductive damage.
🎯Did You Know?
The LH surge that triggers ovulation is the basis of home ovulation prediction kits — they detect the sudden spike of LH in urine about 24-36 hours before an egg is released!
❓Frequently Asked Questions
What is LH?
LH is like a coach blowing a whistle. In girls, the whistle tells the egg to pop out of the ovary each month. In boys, it tells the body to make testosterone. Without the whistle, the players don't know when to start!
What is the normal range for LH?
The typical normal range for LH is 1.5–9.3 mIU/mL.
What causes high LH?
PCOS (elevated LH with normal/low FSH — the classic ratio). Menopause or premature ovarian failure. Primary hypogonadism in men (testicular failure).
What causes low LH?
Pituitary gland disorder or damage. Hypothalamic dysfunction (stress, extreme weight loss). Kallmann syndrome.
How can I check my LH levels?
You can check your LH levels with a routine blood test. Upload your lab report to ScanHealth for an instant, plain-language explanation.
Check Your LH Results Instantly
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Upload Your ReportThis guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Reference ranges may vary by lab. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.