Progesterone, 24-Hour Urinary Free Cortisol Ratio (Progest20:Cortisol Ratio)

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like irregular periods, excessive hair growth, weight changes, or signs of adrenal issues such as fatigue, salt cravings, or high blood pressure. It’s also used in fertility evaluations or to check for conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll collect your urine over a full 24-hour period, starting after you’ve emptied your bladder at midnight. Store the urine in a refrigerator and return it to the lab the same day. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

What the Test Results Mean

The test compares how much progesterone and cortisol appear in your urine. Abnormal ratios may indicate hormonal imbalances, such as low progesterone or excessive cortisol, which can affect metabolism, stress responses, or reproductive health.

Common Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose

This test is often used to diagnose conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia (a genetic disorder affecting hormone production), Cushing’s syndrome (excess cortisol), or hormonal imbalances in fertility treatments.