LH · low result
What does a low LH mean?
Short answer
Low LH mirrors low FSH: the pituitary or hypothalamus isn't driving the gonads. Hormonal contraception, low body weight, eating disorders, heavy exercise, stress, high prolactin, opioids, anabolic steroids and pituitary disease are the causes. Testosterone therapy suppresses LH in men, which is why it's checked before therapy starts.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
What is the normal range for LH?
- Male, age 18+: 1.70 – 8.60 mIU/mL
- Female, age 18+, varies by cycle phase: 1.90 – 12.5 mIU/mL
Full reference table, citations and testing options: LH biomarker page.
What are the common causes of low LH?
- Hormonal contraception, testosterone therapy, anabolic steroids
- Low body weight, eating disorders, over-exercise
- High prolactin, hypothyroidism
- Pituitary disorders, opioids, glucocorticoids
What symptoms go with low LH?
- Absent periods or low testosterone symptoms
- Infertility
What do clinicians usually check next?
- FSH, estradiol/testosterone, prolactin, TSH
- Pituitary evaluation when unexplained
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ($26.99), TSH + Free T4 ($27.99), FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) ($29.99), Estradiol (E2) ($35.99), Prolactin ($39.99).
How do you recheck LH?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Women's Fertility Essentials | Panel · 5 tests | $119.99 | No | 3–5 business days |
| Menopause Assessment Panel | Panel · 8 tests | $179.99 | No | 2–4 business days |
| Women's Hormone Panel | Panel · 11 tests | $239.99 | No | 3–5 business days |
| LH (Luteinizing Hormone) | Test | $36.99 | No | 1–3 business days |
Common questions
Why is LH checked before starting testosterone?
Because testosterone therapy suppresses LH and FSH, making the cause of low testosterone impossible to determine afterward — and impairing fertility.
Sources
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.