Luteinising Hormone (LH) - CLIA

Luteinizing Hormone, commonly known as LH, is a vital gonadotropin produced by the anterior pituitary gland that plays a central role in reproductive health. In women, LH is the primary trigger for ovulation. During the menstrual cycle, a sudden spike in LH levels—often called the LH surge—causes the dominant follicle to release a mature egg. It also transforms the remaining follicle into the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone to support a potential pregnancy.

In men, LH stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone, which is essential for sperm production and the maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics.