Luteinising Hormone (LH)
LH plays a key role in ovulation and reproductive health. This test helps investigate fertility concerns, cycle irregularity, and hormone imbalance. A valuable marker for understanding your hormonal wellbeing.
- Description
- Why This Test?
- Associated Conditions
- Uses of This Test
The Luteinising Hormone (LH) blood test measures LH levels to support assessment of reproductive and hormonal function. LH is produced by the pituitary gland and plays a central role in regulating hormone signalling between the brain and the reproductive organs in both men and women.
Because LH influences ovulation in women and testosterone production in men, abnormal levels can be associated with fertility issues, menstrual irregularities, or symptoms linked to hormonal imbalance. Testing provides useful insight into how effectively the reproductive hormone system is functioning and supports targeted investigation where symptoms or cycle disruption are present.
Luteinising Hormone is a key regulator of reproductive hormone activity and helps coordinate communication between the pituitary gland, ovaries, and testicles.
LH in women
In women, LH works alongside other reproductive hormones to regulate the menstrual cycle. A surge in LH triggers ovulation, when an egg is released from the ovary.
Testing LH can support assessment of:
- Ovulation and fertility
- Menstrual cycle irregularities
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Perimenopause and menopause
LH in men
In men, LH stimulates the testicles to produce testosterone, which is essential for:
- Sperm production
- Libido and sexual function
- Muscle mass and bone health
- Low or abnormal LH levels can help identify whether low testosterone is driven by pituitary signalling or testicular dysfunction.
Why LH testing is useful
LH testing helps assess how well the reproductive hormone system is functioning and can support investigation of hormonal imbalance, fertility issues, or pituitary-related conditions. It is commonly interpreted alongside hormones such as FSH, oestradiol, progesterone, or testosterone for a more complete clinical picture.
Ovulatory Dysfunction
Disrupted LH signalling can affect ovulation timing and fertility in women.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Altered LH patterns are commonly seen in PCOS and may contribute to cycle irregularity and ovulatory issues.
Perimenopause and Menopause
Changes in LH levels reflect shifts in ovarian function during reproductive ageing.
Hypogonadism (Male)
Low testosterone associated with abnormal LH levels can indicate pituitary or testicular dysfunction.
Pituitary Hormone Disorders
Abnormal LH may suggest impaired hormone signalling from the pituitary gland.
- Assess ovulation and fertility
- Investigate irregular menstrual cycles
- Support PCOS evaluation
- Assess perimenopause or menopause status
- Investigate low testosterone causes
- Support male fertility assessment
What We Test
Biomarkers analysed by accredited UK laboratories
Biomarker Tested
Reproductive Hormone
This marker assesses pituitary signalling involved in reproductive hormone regulation.
- Luteinising Hormone (LH)
In-Clinic Blood Testing At Longridge, Preston
If you’d rather leave everything to a qualified professional, our in-clinic blood testing service is the most comfortable and hands-off experience. Once you complete your order, we’ll contact you to arrange a convenient appointment time.
Your sample will be taken by a trained phlebotomist, making the process quick, smooth, and reassuring - especially if you’re nervous around blood or struggle with finger-prick tests.
We send off all samples the same day to the lab to be processed so results can be expected within 72 hours.
Why Use This Service:
Hands-off, professional experience
High-quality samples for complex tests
No risk of “not enough sample”
Support at every step
No posting or packaging required
Convinient appointment times
Taking Charge Of Your Own Health Has Never Been Easier
Worried about your wellbeing?
If you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, or other issues, a comprehensive blood test may be the key to discovering potential underlying health problems.
Need to monitor a health condition?
Blood tests offer essential insights into various aspects of your health, from detecting deficiencies to evaluating immune functions.
Enhancing Performance and Fitness?
Whether you’re training for a sport or keeping track of your fitness progress, a blood test serves as an excellent foundation for your performance improvement journey.
All Our Tests Include:
No GP Referral
Order directly - no waiting for appointments
Fast Results
Detailed analysis within 72 hours
Doctor's Commentary
Expert interpretation of your results included
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Qualified Pharmacists
- Flexible Appointments
- Top Customer Service
How accurate are home finger-prick tests compared to clinic tests?
Our home finger-prick tests use the same accredited laboratories as our clinic tests. While clinic tests allow for more comprehensive panels, home tests are highly accurate for the parameters they measure.
Do I need a GP referral for a blood test?
No, you don’t need a GP referral. You can book directly with us for any blood test. We are a private clinic offering direct access to comprehensive blood testing.
How old do I have to be to have a blood test?
We will only draw blood from those aged 16 and above due to legal requirements.
How long does it take for the blood test results to come?
If you have used our clinic to complete a blood test, we send off all samples the same day to the lab to be processed. If you have used a home test kit, then once your sample has been sent off the lab will analyse your sample. Results are usually received within 72 hours.
How do I perform the home finger-prick test?
Your home blood test kit will contain easy-to-follow instructions on how to take your own finger blood sample. If you have any concerns or questions prior to using the kit, please contact our phlebotomists who will be happy to assist.
How do I prepare for a blood test?
There is no preparation required prior to taking any of the blood tests. Please simply remember to stay hydrated prior to your appointment. This is to help your veins dilate better to enable a quick and efficient blood sample to be taken and reduce the risks of feeling faint following your blood test.
Please inform the phlebotomist before your test if you are currently taking any blood thinning medication.
Should I fast before my blood test?
Fasting is not required for most blood tests. However, if your profile includes cholesterol tests and you’ve previously had high levels, consider fasting for 8 hours beforehand. While not essential, fasting can provide more accurate results.
Note: Fasting means abstaining from any food and drink, except for water.