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Progesterone, Serum Mass Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of progesterone, a hormone produced by the ovaries, in your blood serum. It’s often used to monitor reproductive health and fertility.

Quick summary

["Progesterone levels help track ovulation, pregnancy, and certain hormonal conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
83109-9
Short code
Progest SerPl IA-mCnc
Synonyms
Progest SerPl IA-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 a serum progesterone test to diagnose fertility issues, evaluate menstrual cycle irregularities, check for pregnancy complications, or assess conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormone-related cancers.

When Is This Test Typically Done?

Progesterone testing is often performed during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (around days 21–25) to confirm ovulation. It may also be done during early pregnancy or as part of a workup for unexplained infertility or hormonal imbalances.

What Does a Low or High Progesterone Level Indicate?

Low levels may suggest issues like anovulation (failure to ovulate), early pregnancy loss, or certain thyroid or adrenal disorders. High levels could indicate pregnancy, ovarian tumors, or rare hormonal conditions.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The serum portion is separated and analyzed using a sensitive laboratory technique to measure progesterone concentration.

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 progesterone level mean for my health?
A normal result doesn’t guarantee your health is perfect—it only reflects the progesterone concentration at the time of testing. Your provider will interpret results in context with your symptoms, medical history, and other tests.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Your provider will discuss them with you during a follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No special diet is required, but avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing, as it may affect hormone levels.
  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