What is a Leuprolide Stimulation Test?
A leuprolide stimulation test is done to find out whether or not a child is in puberty.
The test may be done to see if your child has entered puberty too soon or has not entered puberty as expected.
Before the Test
There is no special diet for this test.
It would be best if your child wears a short-sleeved shirt to the test.
Discussing the test ahead of time with your child is helpful.
During the Test
Your child will have an IV (a small thin tube) placed in the arm. They will also receive an injection of medicine called leuprolide acetate (lu-pro-lide as-i-teyt). Blood is taken at different times (usually one to three times) through the IV to measure hormone levels. Getting the IV and the medicine may hurt a bit, but they are done quickly.
The test takes one to two hours. Your child is awake throughout the test, and at the end of the test, the IV is removed.
After the Test
After the test, your child can return to their normal routine and activities. There are no side effects from the medicine.
Call your child's provider if you have any medical concerns about your child.