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Progesterone, Serum Concentration

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

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

Quick summary

["Progesterone levels help assess fertility, pregnancy health, and potential hormonal imbalances."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24109-1
Short code
Progest Sal-sCnc
Synonyms
Progest Sal-sCnc
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 Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate ovarian function, diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), check for pregnancy complications, or monitor hormone therapy. It can also help determine the timing of ovulation or assess fertility issues.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis to measure progesterone concentration in your serum.

What Are Common Uses?

Common reasons include tracking menstrual cycles, diagnosing infertility, evaluating hormonal disorders, assessing premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, or monitoring pregnancy-related conditions.

How Is the Test Performed?

The test uses an immunoassay method to detect and quantify progesterone in your blood serum. This method relies on antibodies to identify and measure the hormone’s presence with high accuracy.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Progesterone

Frequently asked questions

What does a normal range mean for my test results?
Normal ranges can vary depending on the phase of your menstrual cycle, pregnancy stage, or other individual factors. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results in the context of your health history and specific situation.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your medical needs. Your provider may recommend testing during specific times of your cycle, during pregnancy, or if you’re undergoing fertility treatments.
Can diet or lifestyle affect my progesterone levels?
Yes, factors like stress, certain medications (e.g., birth control), and lifestyle choices (e.g., smoking, alcohol) can influence hormone levels. Avoiding these influences before testing may improve result accuracy.
  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