Hormones
LH (Luteinizing Hormone)
Unit: mIU/mLID: H009
What This Test Measures
Pituitary hormone; stimulates testosterone/ovulation
Conventional vs. Functional Optimal Range
Conventional "Normal"
1.7-8.6 (men), varies by cycle (women) mIU/mLYour doctor says you're "fine" anywhere in this range
Functional Optimal
3-6 (men), mid-cycle surge (women) mIU/mLThis is where you actually feel great
The gap between these ranges is why you feel terrible with "normal" labs. Conventional medicine waits for disease. Functional medicine optimizes for health.
Gabriel's Take
LH stimulates testosterone (men) and triggers ovulation (women). High LH + low testosterone = primary hypogonadism (testicular failure). Low LH + low testosterone = secondary (pituitary/hypothalamic). LH:FSH ratio >2 in women = PCOS red flag.
When This Test Is High
Hypogonadism (high with low T = testicular failure), PCOS (high with high androgens)
When This Test Is Low
Low pituitary function (low with low T = secondary hypogonadism)
Related Conditions
Infertility, PCOS, hypogonadism
Recommended Follow-Up
Check FSH, testosterone; distinguish primary vs secondary hypogonadism