LH-LUTEINIZING HORMONE

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) is a Glycoprotein Hormone consisting of 2 non-covalently bound subunits (Alpha and Beta). The alpha subunit of LH, follicle-stimulating Hormone (LH), Thyrotropin (Formerly known as Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone: TSH), and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) are identical and contain 92 amino acids. The beta subunits of these hormones vary and confer the hormones specificity. LH has a beta subunit of 121 amino acids and is responsible for interaction with the LH receptor. This beta subunit contains the same amino acids in sequence as the beta subunit of hCG, and both stimulate the same receptor; however, the hCG-beta subunit contains an additional 24 amino acids, and the hormones differ in the composition of their sugar moieties. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus controls the secretion of the gonadotropins, LH, and LH, from the anterior pituitary. In both males and females, primary hypogonadism results in an elevation of basal follicle-stimulating hormone (LH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. Postmenopausal LH levels are generally above 40 IU/L.

The LH Test is often advised to both Men and Women in conjunction with other tests including follicle-stimulating hormone (LH), testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone for diagnosing:

• Causes of infertility
• Pituitary disorders that can affect LH production
• Conditions affecting the function of the ovaries or testicles

• Investigating irregular periods (menstrual cycles)
• Evaluation of LH levels during the menstrual cycle and identify the most fertile days of a woman

• Delayed/precocious (early) puberty

If you have following symptoms or conditions, then LH Test is advised:

• Irregular or Absent Menstrual Cycles
• Infertility or Difficulty in Conceiving
• Signs of Menopause (hot flashes, night sweats)
• Early or Premature Menopause
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Ovarian Dysfunction or Insufficiency
• Abnormal Hormone Levels (from previous tests)
• Low Sperm Count or Male Infertility
• Pituitary Disorders or Tumors
• Evaluation during Fertility Treatments

• Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, there is no need for you to make any special preparations before the LH Test. 
• In females, preferred sampling time is day 2 / day 3 of the menstrual cycle. Specify the day of the menstrual cycle to your doctor.
• Other blood tests can be carried out in addition to a LH Test. If your doctor advises you to have multiple tests at once, they may ask you to fast for a specific period of time prior to a blood test.
• Avoid vigorous physical activity before the sample collection.
• Follow the preparatory instructions as guided by your doctor.

The Price of a LH Test is Rs. 450. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:

• Other tests advised along with LH Test
• Offers or discounts
• Empanelment of the patient