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Progesterone (Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of progesterone, a hormone produced mainly by the ovaries, in your blood. Progesterone plays a key role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

Quick summary

["Progesterone helps regulate your menstrual cycle and supports early pregnancy."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27967-9
Short code
Progest BS SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Progest BS 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 check for hormonal imbalances, evaluate fertility issues, diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or monitor pregnancy-related complications. It can also help assess ovulation or identify problems with hormone production.

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 test if your lab requires it. If you’re taking medications that affect hormones, let your provider know. Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will clean the area where the needle will go, insert a small needle into your vein, and collect a blood sample. You may feel a brief pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are reported as a mass concentration (measured in nanograms per milliliter, ng/mL, or other units). Your provider will compare these results to your individual reference range and medical history to interpret them.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Progesterone Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a progesterone test measure?
This test measures the amount of progesterone hormone in your blood, which helps assess fertility, menstrual cycle function, and pregnancy health.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Check with your healthcare provider—some tests require fasting, while others do not. Follow their instructions to ensure accurate results.
How long does it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your provider will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
  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