Progesterone, 24-Hour Urinary Free Cortisol Ratio (Progesterone-to-Cortisol)
This test measures the ratio of progesterone to cortisol in your urine over 24 hours. It helps assess hormonal balance, particularly useful in evaluating conditions related to reproductive or adrenal function.
["Helps diagnose hormonal imbalances or conditions like adrenal insufficiency or pregnancy-related issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17487-0
- Short code
- Progest 45M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Progest 45M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.5
- Ref high
- 12
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84436
- SNOMED
- 302345006
- 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 This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles, unexplained fatigue, or signs of hormonal disorders. It can also be used to monitor conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), adrenal gland disorders, or pregnancy-related hormonal changes.
How the Test Works
A urine sample is collected over 24 hours to measure both progesterone and cortisol levels. The ratio helps identify whether your body is producing these hormones in the expected proportions.
Sample Collection
You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, starting and ending with your first morning urine. Store samples in a refrigerator and return them to the lab on time to ensure accuracy.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but avoid certain medications that might affect hormone levels (like some steroids or birth control pills). Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
Reference range
Adult: 4.5-12.0 μg/dLN/A
Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Progesterone/Cortisol Ratio (24h Urine)
Frequently asked questions
This test can help identify hormonal imbalances that may cause fertility issues, menstrual irregularities, or adrenal disorders. High or low ratios might indicate conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, adrenal tumors, or pregnancy complications.
You should follow your doctor’s specific instructions, but generally, avoid stopping any medications without consulting them first. If you’re unsure, ask your provider about potential interactions or adjustments.
Reference ranges can vary by lab and individual health. Your results will be compared to your specific lab’s standards and discussed with your doctor.
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