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Progesterone, Serum or Plasma Concentration

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

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

Quick summary

["Progesterone helps prepare the body for pregnancy and supports early fetal development."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
83110-7
Short code
Progest SerPl IA-sCnc
Synonyms
Progest SerPl IA-sCnc
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 This Test Be Ordered?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test to evaluate hormonal balance, diagnose fertility issues, assess ovulation, or monitor conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or pregnancy complications. It can also be used in preconception planning or during hormone therapy.

What Does a Progesterone Test Tell You?

Progesterone levels can indicate whether ovulation is occurring normally, whether your body is producing enough hormone for pregnancy, or if there are imbalances that might affect fertility or menstrual cycles. Abnormal levels can signal conditions like luteal phase deficiency or hormonal disorders.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure the concentration of progesterone. The test typically requires fasting, but this may vary depending on your specific situation.

What Are Common Reasons for Testing?

Common reasons include tracking ovulation, diagnosing infertility, evaluating menstrual irregularities, assessing hormone-related symptoms, or monitoring conditions like ovarian cysts or hormonal imbalances.

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 reproductive health, ovulation, and hormonal balance.
How often should I get a progesterone test?
The frequency depends on your medical needs. Your healthcare provider will determine the best timing and schedule based on your symptoms, medical history, or treatment plan.
Can food or medications affect progesterone levels?
Some medications, like birth control pills or hormonal therapies, can influence progesterone levels. Avoiding certain foods or supplements may also be advised by your provider, depending on the test timing.
  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