LH (luteinizing hormone)

LH is a hormone that affects ovarian cells in women and regulates testosterone levels in men.

This hormone in women triggers ovulation, i.e. the release of eggs from the ovary, and increases estrogen levels. In men, it stimulates the production of testosterone, as well as its penetration through the seminal cords, and increases the production of sex hormone-binding protein (HSPG).  Testosterone, in turn, has a restraining effect on LH - the more testosterone, the less LH, and vice versa.

Thus, LH plays an important role in human reproductive health.

During a woman's menstrual cycle, the LH content in the blood is constantly changing. The detection of a spike in the hormone indicates that ovulation is imminent. Ovulation tests are based on the detection of luteinising hormone. The test is necessary to identify the most favourable day to conceive a baby. LH not only stimulates the release of an egg from a "burst" follicle but also initiates the transformation of this follicle into a corpus luteum, which produces progesterone, necessary to prepare the uterus for the intended pregnancy.