Progesterone, Serum or Plasma, Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of progesterone, a hormone important for the menstrual cycle and pregnancy, in a sample of serum or plasma.
["A progesterone level helps your doctor assess ovulation, menstrual health, and early pregnancy."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12822-3
- Short code
- Progest 1h p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Progest 1h p chal SerPl-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
What Is Progesterone?
Progesterone is a hormone produced mainly by the ovaries after ovulation and, during pregnancy, by the placenta. It helps prepare and maintain the lining of the uterus and plays a central role in regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting early pregnancy.
Why the Test Is Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order a progesterone test to check whether you are ovulating, to investigate irregular or absent periods, to help evaluate infertility, or to monitor early pregnancy. It may also be used to assess certain adrenal or placental conditions.
How the Test Is Done
The test uses a blood sample, typically drawn from a vein in your arm. No special preparation is usually required, though your provider may ask you to note the day of your menstrual cycle, since timing affects the expected result.
Understanding Your Results
Results are reported as a mass concentration (the amount of progesterone by weight per volume of blood fluid). Whether a value is considered normal depends on your cycle phase, pregnancy status, and the reason for testing, so your provider will interpret the number in context. Ask your care team to explain what your specific result means for you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Progesterone measurement is clinically significant because it provides information about ovulation and corpus luteum function, helps evaluate menstrual and fertility concerns, and supports monitoring of early pregnancy. Because expected levels vary widely by cycle phase and pregnancy stage, results must be interpreted alongside your clinical history and the timing of the sample.
Short name
Progesterone
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before a progesterone test?
Does the day of my menstrual cycle matter?
Can I get the result from a home test instead?
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