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Progesterone, Serum (Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of progesterone, a hormone produced mainly by the ovaries, in your blood. It helps track hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or fertility treatments.

Quick summary

["Progesterone levels can indicate fertility, pregnancy, or hormone-related conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13081-5
Short code
PG IgA Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
PG IgA Ser-aCnc
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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 this test to monitor ovulation, diagnose fertility issues, check for pregnancy, evaluate hormonal imbalances, or assess conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis.

When Might You Need This Test?

You might need this test if you’re trying to conceive, experiencing irregular periods, undergoing fertility treatments, or if symptoms like missed periods, heavy bleeding, or pelvic pain suggest hormonal issues.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but your provider may advise timing it around ovulation (e.g., mid-cycle) or during certain phases of your menstrual cycle. Avoid smoking or alcohol before testing if instructed.

What Happens During the Test?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis, where it’s measured for progesterone concentration using a sensitive immunoassay method.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Progesterone

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Follow up with your provider to discuss the findings.
What do my results mean?
Your results will be compared to reference ranges specific to your age, cycle phase, or pregnancy status. A provider will interpret them in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Can I take anything to prepare for this test?
No specific prep is needed, but avoid smoking or heavy alcohol consumption for 24 hours before testing if advised by your provider.
  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