Skip to content

17-Hydroxyprogesterone (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the level of 17-hydroxyprogesterone in your blood, a hormone involved in reproductive and metabolic processes. It’s often used to evaluate conditions affecting steroid hormone production.

Quick summary

["17-Hydroxyprogesterone helps diagnose hormonal imbalances, especially in cases of suspected congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1669-1
Short code
Deprecated 17OHP Ser-mCnc
Synonyms
Deprecated 17OHP Ser-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like irregular menstrual periods, early puberty in children, or signs of adrenal gland issues. It’s also used in fertility evaluations or when screening for genetic disorders affecting hormone production.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if your test involves a specific timing (e.g., pre- or post-stimulation). Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your blood is collected and sent to a lab. The lab uses a sensitive immunoassay (or similar) method to measure the precise amount of 17-hydroxyprogesterone in your serum. Results help determine hormone levels for further medical evaluation.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard reference ranges, but your doctor will interpret them in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and other tests. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like CAH, adrenal tumors, or other hormonal disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

17OHP

Frequently asked questions

What could cause abnormal results?
Low levels may suggest congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), adrenal insufficiency, or other genetic or acquired conditions affecting hormone synthesis. High levels could indicate adrenal tumors, Cushing’s syndrome, or excessive stimulation from medications or conditions like precocious puberty.
How might my doctor use these results?
Your doctor may use 17-hydroxyprogesterone results to guide treatment for hormonal imbalances, plan further testing (e.g., genetic studies), or monitor conditions like CAH. They’ll discuss findings with you in detail during your follow-up visit.
Is this test painful or uncomfortable?
The blood draw is quick and typically causes mild discomfort, similar to a standard venipuncture. Most people feel little to no pain afterward. If you’re anxious, let your healthcare provider know—there are ways to minimize discomfort.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy