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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 and placenta, in your blood serum. It helps assess reproductive health, fertility, and potential hormonal imbalances.

Quick summary

["Progesterone levels can indicate ovulation, pregnancy, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33852-5
Short code
Progest sp1 p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Progest sp1 p chal 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

When Is This Test Done?

A serum progesterone test may be ordered during the menstrual cycle to track ovulation, diagnose fertility issues, or evaluate hormonal disorders. It can also be part of pregnancy monitoring or management of conditions like endometriosis or menstrual irregularities.

What Does the Test Involve?

You’ll have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis. The test is typically done in a clinic or hospital setting.

What Are Common Uses?

Progesterone levels help determine if ovulation is occurring normally, assess fertility treatments, check for hormonal imbalances, or monitor conditions like early pregnancy or miscarriage risk.

What Might Affect Results?

Factors like timing of the blood draw (e.g., mid-luteal phase of the cycle), medications (e.g., birth control), stress, or recent physical activity can influence progesterone levels. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for optimal results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Progesterone

Frequently asked questions

Why was I asked to have this test?
Your doctor may have recommended this test to check your hormone levels, evaluate fertility, diagnose menstrual or pregnancy-related issues, or monitor a known condition affecting your reproductive health.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Your healthcare provider will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No special preparation is needed for this test, but follow any specific instructions your doctor provides, such as timing your blood draw around your menstrual cycle.
  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