Progesterone, Serum (Quantitative)
This test measures the amount of progesterone hormone in your blood, which plays a key role in reproductive health and hormone regulation.
["Progesterone levels help track fertility, pregnancy, and hormone balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17486-2
- Short code
- Progest 2h p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Progest 2h 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as hormonal imbalances, fertility issues, ovarian cysts, or to assess pregnancy (e.g., during early pregnancy or miscarriage evaluation). It can also help evaluate hormone therapy responses or evaluate symptoms like irregular periods or breast tenderness.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your lab requires it. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to rest afterward, as drawing blood can make you lightheaded.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will insert a needle into a vein in your arm to collect a blood sample. You may feel a brief pinch, but the process is quick. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What Does the Test Result Mean?
Results are interpreted by your provider based on your medical history, symptoms, and other tests. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), ovarian tumors, or hormonal deficiencies. Your provider will discuss findings with you in detail.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Progesterone plays a critical role in reproductive cycles, pregnancy maintenance, and menstrual regulation. Low levels may signal ovulation issues, while elevated levels could suggest tumors or other endocrine disorders. This test is often used alongside other hormone assessments for comprehensive evaluation.
Short name
Serum Progesterone Level
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low progesterone level typically indicate?
Can diet or supplements affect progesterone levels?
How often should I get this test?
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