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Progesterone Test

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

Measures the amount of progesterone in the blood to help evaluate ovulation, fertility, pregnancy, and certain hormonal disorders.

Quick summary

["The result is most useful when interpreted with your menstrual or pregnancy history and other hormone tests."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
63884-1
Short code
Progesterone age last CTS
Synonyms
Progesterone age last CTS
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
california-teachers-study
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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

What is this test?

This test measures the concentration of progesterone, a hormone produced mainly by the ovaries and placenta. Progesterone helps prepare the uterine lining for implantation and supports early pregnancy.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order it to assess ovulation, investigate fertility problems, evaluate bleeding or other menstrual symptoms, or monitor pregnancy and hormone treatment. It is often considered along with other reproductive hormone tests.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory, often using an immunoassay. The result reflects the amount of progesterone present when the sample was collected.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually needed, but the timing of the blood draw can strongly affect the result. Tell your clinician about your menstrual cycle, pregnancy status, medications, and any progesterone supplements.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Progesterone

Frequently asked questions

Does the time of day matter?
The cycle day is usually more important than the time of day. Your clinician may request testing at a specific point in the cycle or early pregnancy.
Can medications affect the result?
Yes. Progesterone medications, fertility treatments, and some other hormonal medicines can change the measured level. Tell the laboratory about medicines and supplements you have used.
Does one progesterone result confirm ovulation?
Not necessarily. Progesterone is often interpreted with other hormones, menstrual timing, and clinical findings to assess ovulation and fertility.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy