Progesterone, Serum (Concentration)
This test measures the amount of progesterone, a hormone important for reproductive health, in your blood serum.
["Progesterone levels help track fertility, pregnancy, and hormone balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47183-9
- Short code
- Progest 15M p chal SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Progest 15M p chal SerPl-sCnc
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate reproductive health, diagnose hormonal imbalances, assess fertility, or monitor conditions like endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or pregnancy-related issues. It can also help guide treatment for hormone-related disorders.
What Does the Test Measure?
Progesterone is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the ovaries, placenta, and adrenal glands. It plays a key role in regulating the menstrual cycle, preparing the uterus for pregnancy, and maintaining early pregnancy. Levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, by a healthcare professional. The blood is then processed to separate serum (the liquid part after clotting) for testing. This test is typically performed on serum.
What Are Common Uses?
Common reasons for testing include: tracking ovulation, diagnosing infertility, assessing hormonal imbalances, evaluating conditions like luteal phase deficiency, monitoring pregnancy, or checking for signs of hormonal tumors.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Serum Progesterone
Frequently asked questions
Progesterone levels can indicate whether ovulation occurred (high levels suggest ovulation), help diagnose conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, or assess risks of miscarriage or preterm labor. Abnormal levels may also signal thyroid disorders, adrenal issues, or other endocrine problems.
Ideal timing varies by cycle phase. Typically, tests are done mid-luteal phase (around day 21–23 of a 28-day cycle) or during pregnancy. Your provider will specify the best window for your situation.
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your cycle phase, medical history, and symptoms. Low levels may suggest ovulation issues or hormonal deficiencies, while high levels could indicate pregnancy or certain tumors. No absolute reference ranges are provided here; your provider will guide interpretation.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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