LH (Luteinizing Hormone) is an essential hormone during pregnancy. What is its function?

LH hormone is one of the most important hormones for women who want to conceive. It is, of course, related to the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. However, many people do not fully understand its exact role and significance. What happens if LH levels are too high or too low, and what should be done in such cases?

Luteinizing hormone (LH) is a natural hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It belongs to a group of hormones called gonadotropins. LH plays a crucial role in stimulating the testes in males and the ovaries in females.

Without this hormone, reproduction would not be possible. In females, LH is released in a surge during ovulation, triggering the ovary to release an egg for fertilization. In males, LH stimulates the testes to produce testosterone.

LH Hormone in Women
In women, LH helps regulate the menstrual cycle and stimulates the release of an egg from the ovary, a process known as ovulation. LH levels rise rapidly just before ovulation.

LH Hormone in Men
In men, LH stimulates the testes to produce testosterone, which is essential for sperm production. Unlike in women, LH levels in men remain relatively stable.

LH Hormone in Children
LH levels are typically low in childhood but start increasing 2-3 years before puberty. In girls, LH signals the ovaries to produce estrogen, while in boys, it triggers the testes to produce testosterone.

LH (Luteinizing Hormone) is responsible for triggering the release of an egg for fertilization. Normally, the body secretes LH in small amounts, but just before ovulation, LH levels surge rapidly. Ovulation occurs within 12–36 hours after this surge. Therefore, having intercourse within 48 hours after detecting an LH surge can significantly increase the chances of conception.

LH Testing and Its Role with FSH

The LH test works closely with another hormone called FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) to regulate reproductive hormones. Therefore, LH and FSH tests are often performed together. The purpose of these tests varies depending on whether they are conducted for women, men, or children.

For Women, LH and FSH Tests Are Used To:

• Identify the cause of infertility

• Determine ovulation timing, which helps pinpoint the most fertile days for conception

• Diagnose irregular or absent menstrual periods

• Confirm the onset of menopause, which occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs, making pregnancy impossible (typically around age 50 and above)

For Men, LH and FSH Tests Are Used To:

• Identify the cause of infertility

• Determine the reason for low sperm count

• Diagnose low libido (reduced sexual desire)

For Children, LH and FSH Tests Help Diagnose:

• Early puberty (before age 9 in girls and before age 10 in boys)

• Delayed puberty (if puberty has not started by age 13 in girls and age 14 in boys)

The nurse will first take the patient's initial history. Then, the nurse will take the patient's weight and blood pressure. Afterward, the nurse will guide the patient to meet the doctor.

During the doctor's visit, the doctor will take a history, such as any chronic conditions, antibiotics being used, any history of chromosomal abnormalities, and the medical history of family members.

A blood sample will be taken and sent for LH testing to identify any potential abnormalities.

The patient will wait for approximately one hour for the test results.

The normal levels of LH (Luteinizing Hormone) in international standard units (IU/L) are as follows:

• Women before menopause: 5-25 IU/L

• Women after menopause: 15.9-54.0 IU/L

• Pregnant women: Less than 1.5 IU/L

• Women using birth control: 0.7-5.6 IU/L

• Men aged 20-70 years: 0.7-7.9 IU/L

• Men over 70 years old: 3.1-34.0 IU/L

To maintain and balance LH hormone levels, it is important to manage other hormones as well. For example, an increase in insulin levels can lead to a rise in LH levels. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain overall hormonal balance. Here are some ways to balance LH hormone levels:

1. Exercise Regularly:

   • Regular physical activity helps regulate hormone production and can maintain a healthy balance of hormones, including LH.

2. Consume Foods Containing Inositol:

   • Inositol, found in foods such as whole grains, beans, and fruits, helps lower LH levels. It is particularly beneficial for women with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), helping to balance hormone levels.

3. Eat Omega-3 Rich Foods:

   • Omega-3 fatty acids are essential components in various types of food and are especially important for women with PCOS. Omega-3 can help reduce elevated LH levels and contribute to overall hormonal balance.

Doctors will initially measure LH hormone levels to check for any abnormalities or issues related to infertility. The doctor will conduct tests as follows:

• For men: Semen analysis, genetic testing, and blood tests to measure other hormone levels.

• For women: Blood tests to measure hormone levels and ultrasound to check for abnormalities in the uterus.

Maintaining hormonal balance requires lifestyle changes. If you're preparing to have a child, consider the following recommendations:

1. Avoid sugary foods: Your body doesn’t need extra sugar daily. Carbohydrates from rice, fruits, and other foods are already converted to glucose in the body. "Sugar is the greatest enemy." It can create free radicals that damage cells, accelerate aging, and reduce egg quality. High blood sugar levels stimulate insulin secretion, increasing the risk of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) if insulin resistance occurs. This can cause chronic anovulation (lack of ovulation) and smaller eggs.

2. Avoid caffeine (tea, coffee): Caffeine consumption can increase infertility risk.

3. Avoid alcohol: Drinking alcohol harms health, negatively affects fetal development, increases the risk of heart problems in the baby, and raises the chances of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

4. Eat a healthy diet: A well-balanced diet is important for overall health. Eat a variety of foods, especially vegetables and fruits like leafy greens, beans, corn, oranges, and bananas, which are rich in folic acid. Folic acid helps prevent spinal cord defects in the baby. Include whole grains like brown rice and whole wheat bread, and consume protein at every meal. Don’t forget iron, as it’s essential for growth and brain development in the baby.

Does the LH hormone test hurt? Are there any side effects?
The LH hormone test is done through a blood draw. It is not painful and generally has very minimal to no side effects.

How should I prepare for the LH hormone test?
Since the LH hormone test involves a small amount of blood and does not require fasting or special preparations, you don't need to avoid food or water. It is recommended to get adequate rest before the test, and you can proceed with the test as usual.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) is an important hormone for women because it plays a key role in ovulation. If you're wondering when your egg will be released, you can buy an LH test kit to check your hormone levels. If the levels increase, it indicates that ovulation is about to occur. For those trying to conceive, having intercourse during this time can increase the chances of pregnancy.

If you’ve been trying to conceive naturally for over a year without success, it may indicate infertility. It is recommended to consult a doctor to discuss possible treatment options. If you have any concerns or would like to check for infertility issues for free, feel free to contact us at Line: @beyondivf