Fact Check: Is LH high during period?

Is LH High During Period?

The claim in question pertains to the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) during menstruation. Specifically, it asks whether LH levels are high during a woman's menstrual period. Understanding this claim requires a closer examination of the menstrual cycle and the hormonal fluctuations that occur throughout it.

What We Know

1. Menstrual Cycle Overview: The menstrual cycle is divided into two main phases: the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The follicular phase begins on the first day of menstruation and lasts until ovulation, while the luteal phase occurs after ovulation and lasts until the next period begins [1][5].

2. LH Fluctuations: LH levels are known to fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle. Typically, LH levels are lowest during the early follicular phase, which coincides with menstruation. According to various sources, LH levels during this time generally range from 1.37 to 9 IU/L [4][6].

3. Peak LH Levels: LH levels surge approximately 24-36 hours before ovulation, reaching their highest point just before the release of an egg. This peak can exceed 30 IU/L [4][8]. Therefore, it is during the mid-cycle that LH levels are at their highest, not during menstruation.

4. Testing and Normal Ranges: The normal range for LH levels can vary, but during the follicular phase (which includes menstruation), levels are typically lower than during the luteal phase. The University of Rochester Medical Center notes that LH levels can vary significantly depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle [2].

Analysis

The claim that LH is high during menstruation is contradicted by several reputable sources. For instance, the Natalist blog indicates that LH levels are at their lowest during the early follicular phase, which includes the days of menstruation [4]. This is supported by the Cleveland Clinic, which states that LH levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, with a significant rise occurring just before ovulation [6].

Source Reliability

• Medical Institutions: Sources such as the University of Rochester Medical Center and the Cleveland Clinic are reputable medical institutions known for providing reliable health information. Their content is typically peer-reviewed or produced by qualified medical professionals, lending credibility to their claims [2][6].

• Health Websites: Websites like MedlinePlus and Flo Health also provide valuable insights into hormonal levels during the menstrual cycle. However, while they are generally reliable, it is important to consider that they may not always provide the depth of scientific backing that academic sources do [3][5].

• Blog Posts: The Natalist blog and similar platforms, while informative, may not always adhere to strict scientific standards. They can provide useful summaries but should be read with a critical eye, especially regarding their interpretation of hormonal data [4][7].

Methodological Considerations

The information presented in these sources is based on general hormonal patterns observed in women with regular menstrual cycles. However, individual variations can occur, and factors such as age, health conditions, and hormonal treatments can influence LH levels. More specific studies or data regarding LH levels in diverse populations would be beneficial for a comprehensive understanding.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that luteinizing hormone (LH) levels are high during menstruation is false. Evidence indicates that LH levels are at their lowest during the early follicular phase, which includes menstruation. Reputable sources, such as the Cleveland Clinic and the University of Rochester Medical Center, confirm that LH levels peak just before ovulation, not during the menstrual period.

It is important to note that while the general patterns of LH fluctuations are well-documented, individual variations can exist due to factors like health conditions and hormonal treatments. Therefore, while the evidence supports the conclusion that LH is not high during menstruation, it is essential to acknowledge that individual experiences may differ.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information regarding hormonal health and consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice.

Sources

1. The Normal Menstrual Cycle and the Control of Ovulation. National Center for Biotechnology Information. Link
2. Luteinizing Hormone (Blood). University of Rochester Medical Center. Link
3. Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Levels Test. MedlinePlus. Link
4. LH Levels Throughout Your Menstrual Cycle. Natalist. Link
5. What Happens to Hormone Levels During the Menstrual Cycle? Flo. Link
6. Luteinizing Hormone: Levels, Function & Testing. Cleveland Clinic. Link
7. LH Hormone Levels: What is Normal? Premom. Link
8. LH Levels Throughout Your Menstrual Cycle. Natalist. Link