Progesterone, Serum (Concentration)

When Is This Test Ordered?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test to evaluate ovulation, diagnose fertility issues, check for hormonal disorders, or monitor pregnancy-related conditions. It’s often used in cycles before or during ovulation tracking, or in cases of irregular periods, endometriosis, or miscarriage history.

What Does the Test Measure?

Progesterone is a key hormone in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. It helps prepare the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy and maintains early pregnancy until other hormones take over. Low levels may suggest issues like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or delayed ovulation, while high levels could indicate certain ovarian or adrenal conditions.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is collected in a special tube and sent to a lab for analysis. You may need to fast for a few hours before the test, depending on your provider’s instructions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is always required, but your provider might ask you to avoid certain medications (like birth control) or to abstain from smoking for 24 hours before testing. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, always follow your provider’s guidance.