Interpret Your Luteinizing Hormone Results
Enter your LH value below and get an instant, free AI interpretation — a plain-English explanation checked against WHO/IFCC reference ranges.
Medical Disclaimer
This AI-generated interpretation is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results may vary based on individual health factors not captured here.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health decisions. Read full disclaimer →
Luteinizing Hormone Normal Ranges
LH is a gonadotropin hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary.
| Age Group | Sex | Reference Range | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adults (18–64) | Female | 2.4 – 12.6 | mIU/mL | Follicular phase |
| Adults (18–64) | Female | 14 – 95.6 | mIU/mL | LH surge (ovulation) |
| Adults (18–64) | Male | 1.7 – 8.6 | mIU/mL | — |
Also reported in: IU/L.
Why Doctors Order the Luteinizing Hormone Test
The LH:FSH ratio is important in PCOS diagnosis — a ratio ≥2–3:1 on cycle day 3 supports PCOS. Urine LH surge detection kits predict ovulation for timed intercourse.
How to Enter Your LH Result
Luteinizing Hormone can be reported in mIU/mL or IU/L. Choose the unit printed next to your result on the lab report so it is compared with the matching reference range.
Reference ranges for LH differ between men and women, so entering your sex gives a more accurate reading.
What a Low or High LH Can Be Associated With
Below the reference range
- Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (pituitary or hypothalamic failure)
- Hyperprolactinemia
- Eating disorders and excessive exercise
- Oral contraceptive use
Above the reference range
- LH surge (normal — signals ovulation)
- Menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency
- Primary hypogonadism in men (testicular failure)
- PCOS (elevated LH with high LH:FSH ratio)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
These are common associations, not a diagnosis. A single result is read alongside your symptoms, history and other tests — discuss it with your doctor.
What Can Change Your LH Result
Before you read too much into a result, consider whether any of these applied:
- Cycle day (LH peaks dramatically during ovulation)
- Oral contraceptives (suppress LH)
- Pulsatile secretion pattern (a single measurement may miss the LH surge)
Preparing for the test: In women, the timing of measurement within the menstrual cycle is critical. For fertility evaluation, draw on cycle day 2–3.
Symptoms That Often Prompt LH Testing
- Irregular or absent periods
- Infertility
- Difficulty detecting ovulation
- Low libido
Want the full clinical guide to Luteinizing Hormone?
Reference ranges, causes, symptoms, preparation, and FAQs.