Questions about timing? Call 8872524007.
What the LH test checks
LH is made by the pituitary gland. For most of the cycle it stays low and steady. Around mid-cycle it surges sharply, and ovulation usually follows within about 24 to 36 hours. In men, LH acts on the Leydig cells of the testes, which produce testosterone. The lab measures LH in serum, in mIU/mL or IU/L.
Why your doctor may order it
- A baseline fertility check with FSH and estradiol.
- Irregular cycles, especially where PCOS is being considered. Some women with PCOS have LH higher than FSH, though this ratio alone doesn't diagnose it.
- Absent periods, to help separate an ovarian cause from a pituitary or hypothalamus cause.
- Around menopause, alongside FSH.
- Low testosterone in men. LH tells the doctor whether the testes or the pituitary is the likely starting point.
- Early or late puberty in children.
How to prepare
No fasting needed. Women are usually asked to come on day 2 to 5, unless the doctor wants a mid-cycle sample to catch the surge. Men can come any morning; early morning suits best if testosterone is being checked at the same time.
Birth control pills, hormone therapy and some fertility medicines change LH. Tell your doctor what you take, and don't stop it on your own. If you use biotin supplements, mention them, as they can interfere with hormone immunoassays.
Sample type and report time
A single serum sample from the arm. The result is usually ready the same day or next day. If you've been searching for an LH test near me around Banur, you can walk in or book home sample collection for the right cycle day.
Understanding your results
LH ranges differ for each phase of the cycle, for men, and after menopause. The range printed on your report is the one that applies, because ranges vary by lab and method.
High LH with high FSH can be associated with the ovaries or testes not responding well, as happens around menopause. In men, high LH with low testosterone points towards the testes. Low LH with low sex hormones suggests the pituitary or hypothalamus isn't sending enough signal, which can follow stress, weight loss, intense exercise or raised prolactin. A single LH result taken mid-cycle may simply be the surge. Your doctor reads the result alongside your symptoms and other tests.
FAQ
Is a blood LH test the same as a urine ovulation kit?
Both detect LH. The kit only shows whether the surge is happening; the blood test gives an exact level and is used to assess hormone balance.
Why does my report show LH higher than FSH?
That pattern is seen in some women with PCOS, but also in others. Your doctor uses it with your symptoms, ultrasound and other results.
Can I do the LH test on day 7?
Ask your doctor. A day 2 to 5 sample is the usual standard, because later in the cycle LH starts to change.
Do men need to fast?
No. Fasting isn't needed for LH, though a morning testosterone sample may be requested at the same visit.
Book at Alpha Laboratory
Book your LH test by calling 8872524007. You can also WhatsApp us the first day of your last period and we'll help plan the visit. Address and map are on the contact page. Call or WhatsApp for the current price.