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Progesterone, Serum (Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of progesterone, a hormone produced by the ovaries, in your blood serum. It helps assess reproductive health, track ovulation, and evaluate conditions like pregnancy or hormonal imbalances.

Quick summary

["Progesterone levels can indicate fertility, menstrual cycle timing, or potential hormone-related disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
103624-3
Short code
K.pna + K.oxytoca DNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
K.pna + K.oxytoca DNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order a serum progesterone test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, endometriosis, or to confirm pregnancy. It can also help determine the timing of ovulation or assess hormone therapy effectiveness.

When Might You Need This Test?

You might need this test if you have symptoms like missed periods, heavy bleeding, or if you’re undergoing fertility treatments. It’s also used during pregnancy to check for complications or to guide medical decisions.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure progesterone concentration. No special preparation is usually needed, but fasting may be required depending on your test instructions.

What Are Common Results?

Results are reported as a concentration value (e.g., nanograms per deciliter, ng/dL). Interpretation depends on your cycle phase, age, or clinical context. Your provider will discuss these results with you.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Progesterone plays a critical role in preparing the uterus for pregnancy and maintaining early pregnancy. Low levels may indicate ovulation issues, while high levels could suggest conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or certain tumors. During pregnancy, it supports fetal development and helps prepare the body for labor.

Short name

Serum Progesterone

Frequently asked questions

What does a low progesterone level mean?
A low progesterone level may suggest problems with ovulation, such as anovulation or hormonal imbalances. It could also indicate conditions like premature ovarian insufficiency or certain medications affecting hormone production. Your provider will review your full medical history and other test results to determine the cause.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your medical needs. If you’re tracking ovulation, your provider might recommend testing during the mid-luteal phase (around day 21 of a 28-day cycle). For monitoring conditions like infertility or pregnancy, testing may be done more regularly as directed.
Can lifestyle changes affect progesterone levels?
Yes, lifestyle factors like stress, poor sleep, obesity, and certain medications (e.g., birth control) can influence hormone levels. Maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and staying physically active may support hormonal health, but always follow your provider’s guidance for testing and treatment.
  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