LH / FSH Ratio (Luteinizing Hormone & Follicle Stimulating Hormone Ratio) Test
LH / FSH Ratio (Luteinizing Hormone & Follicle Stimulating Hormone Ratio) Test
An LH FSH Ratio test is a biochemical investigation to measure and compare the level of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in the blood. These hormones play an important role in sexual development and reproductive health. In women, FSH and LH control successful ovulation and healthy menstrual cycles. In men, these hormones stimulate testosterone production to release sperm cells.
Therefore, your FSH to LH ratio gives key insight into your reproductive health by helping your doctor find out the root cause of hormonal imbalance, fertility, and early or delayed puberty.Â
What is LH/FSH Ratio Used For?
An LH /FSH Ratio test is performed
To assess hormonal imbalance
To find the cause of menstrual irregularities in women in child bearing age
To identify the disorders /diseases that affect pituitary glands or ovaries
To assess premature menopause and early menopause in women of varying ages
To identify the reasons of infertility in both men and women
To find the causes of low sperm count and low sex drive in men
To access early or delayed sexual development in children
Which Tests are Included in the LH/FSH Ratio?
The LH/FSH ratio consists of two subtests:
·        Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Test: This test measures the amount of LH in the blood as part of an infertility workup, checks for problems with the pituitary gland, and gives women information about menopause.
- Follicular Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test: This test measures the level of FSH in the blood sample to determine ovarian health. Â Â
Preparation for Test
You don't need to do anything special to do an LH/FSH ratio test, although if you are a female and menstruating, provide a blood sample on the second or third day of your cycle.
For men, the test can be done at any time.Â
Interpretation of Test Results
|
LH/FSH ratio |
Interpretation |
|
0.5 (FSH higher than LH) |
Sign of an issue in the ovaries, testes (gonads), pituitary gland, and hypothalamus; may occur in primary ovarian insufficiency, Â menopause, or testicular failure |
|
1:1 ( LH and FSH levels are equal) |
Normal |
|
2:1 or 3:1 (LH higher than FSH) |
Sign of poor ovarian and testicular function; may occur in polycystic ovarian disease(PCOS), infertility, central nervous system disorder, testicular cancer, primary testicular failure |
FAQs
When should I get my LH/FSH ratio tested?
The doctor may want to test LH to FSH ratio:
If a woman has
·        Irregular menstrual cycles
- Signs of high androgen levels like acne, facial hair growth, or hair loss that resembles male pattern balding
- Symptoms of insulin resistance such as high BMI, patches of dark skin, etc
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Symptoms of pituitary gland disorders
If a man has
- Low sex drive
- Low sperm count
- Loss of muscle mass
- Symptoms of hypogonadism or erectile dysfunction
Symptoms of pituitary gland disorders
What is the normal LH and FSH level during menstruation?
When you're not pregnant and menstruating, the LH blood levels would generally range from 1.37 to 9 IU/L and FSH levels from 4.7 to 21.5 IU/mL
Are there any risks associated with an LH FSH Ratio?
While no risk is associated with an LH FSH Ratio, some individuals may feel a bit uncomfortable at the site where a needle is pricked, which is usually not bothersome.
What factors can affect the LH FSH Ratio test result?
Stress, certain medications like birth control pills, and the menstrual cycle can affect the result of the LH FSH Ratio test.
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