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Progesterone (serum/plasma concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of progesterone, a hormone produced by the ovaries, uterus, and adrenal glands, in your blood.

Quick summary

["Progesterone levels help track reproductive health and pregnancy readiness."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47184-7
Short code
Progest 1h p chal SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Progest 1h 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 conditions like ovarian cysts, assess fertility, or monitor pregnancy. It can also help diagnose hormonal imbalances or evaluate symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, or menopause-related issues.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is collected in a tube and sent to a lab for analysis. Progesterone levels are measured using a sensitive immunoassay method to detect the hormone in your serum or plasma.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically required, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications that could affect results. For example, some birth control pills or hormonal treatments might influence progesterone levels. If you’re taking these, inform your provider before the test.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted based on your medical history, symptoms, and the context of your care. Low levels may suggest issues like ovarian dysfunction or early menopause, while high levels could indicate pregnancy, certain tumors, or other hormonal conditions. Your provider will discuss these findings with you.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Frequently asked questions

How might my progesterone levels affect my health?
Progesterone plays a critical role in reproductive health, including regulating menstrual cycles, supporting early pregnancy, and preparing the uterus for potential implantation. Abnormal levels can signal underlying conditions that may require further evaluation, such as hormonal imbalances, ovarian cysts, or fertility issues. Your provider will use these results alongside other tests and symptoms to guide diagnosis and treatment.
What if my results are outside of expected ranges?
If your progesterone levels are outside the typical range, your healthcare provider will review your results in detail and may recommend additional tests or treatments. For example, low levels might prompt further evaluation of ovarian function or fertility, while high levels could be investigated for pregnancy confirmation or other hormonal disorders.
Can I take anything before or after this test?
Yes, your provider may advise you to avoid certain medications or activities that could influence results, such as smoking or consuming specific supplements. Follow their instructions carefully to ensure accurate results. If you’re unsure, ask your provider for clarification.
  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