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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. It helps assess reproductive health, especially during the menstrual cycle or pregnancy.

Quick summary

["Progesterone levels guide treatment and diagnosis for fertility, menstrual irregularities, or pregnancy-related conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47188-8
Short code
Progest sp5 p chal SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Progest sp5 p chal SerPl-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

When Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to evaluate your menstrual cycle, diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), check for pregnancy complications, or monitor hormone therapy. It’s often done during the mid-luteal phase (around day 21 of a 28-day cycle) or in early pregnancy.

What Does This Test Measure?

Progesterone levels indicate whether your ovaries are functioning normally and producing this hormone. Low levels may suggest issues like ovulation problems or early pregnancy loss, while high levels could relate to conditions like ovarian tumors.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may need to fast for 8–12 hours before the test, but your doctor will confirm this. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to measure progesterone concentration.

What Are Common Results?

Results are typically reported in nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) or picograms per milliliter (pg/mL). Interpretation depends on your cycle phase, age, and medical history—your doctor will discuss findings with you.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Progesterone

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor request this test?
Your doctor may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, early pregnancy complications, or hormonal imbalances. It can also help evaluate ovarian cysts or assess response to fertility treatments.
What if my results are outside the expected range?
If your results are abnormal, your doctor will review them with you and may recommend further testing or adjustments to your treatment plan. For example, low progesterone might prompt additional evaluations for ovulation disorders.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health needs. Some patients get it monthly during fertility monitoring, while others may need it only once or twice a year for ongoing conditions like PCOS.
  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