What Is LH?

LH is the abbreviation for luteinizing hormones, chemicals produced naturally by your body to aid the reproductive process. LH deficiencies have the potential to cause infertility.

Identification

• Your pituitary gland, a small structure located at the base of your brain, is responsible for the production of LH, reports the Mayo Clinic.

Function in Men

• In men, LH stimulates specialized cells known as Leydig cells, which in turn produce testosterone, the main sex hormone in the male body, according to Colorado State University. One of testosterone's many roles is inducing the production of sperm, which is needed for sexual reproduction.

Function in Women

• In the female reproductive system, increased levels of LH lead to ovulation or the passing of an egg into the uterus in preparation for fertilization. LH also produces progesterone, which is necessary for fetal development after conception, reports the Mayo Clinic.

Effects

• Deficiencies of LH often contribute to infertility in women and men. For this reason, blood tests to measure LH levels is a common first step for fertility specialists, according to the American Pregnancy Association.

Solution

• If your blood tests reveal that you have a shortage of LH, your doctor is likely to prescribe a medication to supplement levels of the hormone in your body, reports the Mayo Clinic.