However, a regular period does not always mean you are ovulating regularly. Understanding the LH surge and the reasons for missing it can help you find answers to your fertility concerns. It will also help you know when you must consult your doctor.
What Is the LH Surge?
Your body receives a signal to release an egg from the ovary after the Luteinising hormone (LH) increases rapidly. This rise is referred to as the LH surge, which occurs almost 36 hours before ovulation and is one of its key signs. You may not ovulate without this surge.Ovulation prediction kits detect this hormone in urine. A positive result suggests ovulation is about to occur, which is your most fertile time.
You can plan intercourse for the best chances of pregnancy if you know when the LH surge happens. It is the most reliable way to track your fertile window when trying to conceive.
Why Might the LH Surge Be Missing?
There are several reasons why the LH surge may not be evident, even with regular menstrual cycles. Sometimes, it is a matter of timing or the testing methods used. Other times, it may be related to an underlying health issue.Testing at the Wrong Time
It is easy to miss the LH surge when it is brief, and you are only testing once a day. Many women experience a short window when LH is high, especially in the afternoon or evening.Try to test the surge twice daily, once in the late morning and again in the evening, around your expected ovulation days. Avoid testing the first-morning urine, as it may not provide an accurate LH reading.
Low LH Levels
Some women naturally have lower LH levels, making the surge hard to detect using standard ovulation kits. The surge may still be happening, but at a level too low for the test to recognise.Use a more sensitive brand of ovulation test. Consider tracking ovulation with basal body temperature or consulting a doctor for blood tests if the results are unclear.
Anovulatory Cycles
You can have a regular period without actually releasing an egg. These are called anovulatory cycles. They may happen occasionally due to stress, illness, or hormonal shifts.It may not seem serious when it happens occasionally. However, consult your doctor if the condition persists for several cycles. Blood tests or ultrasound monitoring can confirm whether you are ovulating or not.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS can lead to irregular hormone patterns. In many women with PCOS, LH levels stay high throughout the cycle, making it difficult to detect a surge or a clear ovulation window.Consult your doctor if you experience symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, or weight gain. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help you manage PCOS and improve your chances of conceiving.
Thyroid Issues
Your thyroid gland affects many hormone-related functions, including your menstrual cycle. Both underactive and overactive thyroid conditions may affect LH levels and, thus, ovulation.Ask your doctor to check your thyroid function with a simple blood test. Treatment can help restore normal ovulation if your thyroid levels are not in the normal range.
Stress and Lifestyle Factors
High stress, poor diet, or sudden weight changes may interfere with your hormone balance. Your body may delay or skip ovulation under stress, even if your periods appear regular.Try to improve sleep, reduce stress, and eat balanced meals. Gentle exercise and mindfulness techniques may also support hormonal balance.
Perimenopause or Low Ovarian Reserve
Your cycle may still appear regular if you are in your late 30s or 40s or have a low ovarian reserve, but ovulation can be inconsistent or absent.Your doctor can check your Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels or perform other tests to assess your ovarian reserve before giving you the next steps.
When to See a Doctor
It is time to speak to a fertility specialist or gynaecologist if:- You have not experienced an LH surge in several cycles.
- You have been trying to conceive for more than 6–12 months, or are above 35 and cannot get pregnant despite normal conditions.
- You have a history of thyroid, PCOS, or hormone-related conditions.
Your doctor may suggest hormone blood tests, ultrasound follicle tracking, or other methods to help confirm ovulation and identify any issues early.
Missing an LH surge does not always mean you are not ovulating. It could be due to a short surge, low hormone levels, or testing at the wrong time. Sometimes, it may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention.
Fortunately, many causes are manageable with simple changes or proper treatment. You can better understand your cycle and take steps that support your fertility with the correct approach and guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions on Causes of No LH Surge Despite Regular Periods
- Can I get pregnant even if I never see an LH surge?
Yes, you may still be ovulating without detecting the surge. It is essential to confirm ovulation through other methods or consult a doctor if you are unsure. - How long should I track ovulation before consulting a doctor?
Consult your doctor if you do not experience a surge after tracking for three cycles and are actively trying to conceive to rule out any underlying issues. - Do regular periods always mean regular ovulation?
You can have regular cycles and still miss ovulation due to factors like stress, PCOS, or thyroid problems. That is why tracking ovulation is necessary to time intercourse when you are trying to get pregnant.
