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: Progesterone in Serum or Plasma by Immunoassay

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

: This test measures the level of progesterone, a hormone important in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and reproductive health, in a sample of serum or plasma.

Quick summary

[": A progesterone test helps evaluate ovulation, fertility, and pregnancy health by measuring hormone levels in the blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47989-9
Short code
Progest sp7 p chal SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Progest sp7 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

: What Is Progesterone?

: Progesterone is a hormone produced mainly by the ovaries after ovulation and by the placenta during pregnancy. It plays a key role in preparing the uterus for a possible pregnancy and in maintaining early pregnancy.

: Why This Test Is Done

: Your healthcare provider may order this test to check whether ovulation has occurred, to investigate fertility problems or irregular periods, to monitor early pregnancy, or to evaluate symptoms that may relate to hormone imbalance.

: How the Sample Is Collected

: A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, and the serum or plasma is separated for testing. The laboratory measures progesterone using an immunoassay method.

: What the Results Mean

: Results are interpreted by your provider in the context of your symptoms, menstrual cycle timing, pregnancy status, and other hormone tests. Levels change throughout the menstrual cycle and during pregnancy, so timing of the sample matters.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

: Progesterone testing is clinically useful for assessing ovulation, evaluating infertility and menstrual irregularities, and monitoring pregnancy. Because reference ranges depend on cycle phase, pregnancy status, age, and the laboratory method, results should always be interpreted by a healthcare provider.

Short name

: Progesterone

Frequently asked questions

: Do I need to fast before a progesterone test?
: Fasting is generally not required for a progesterone blood test, but follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider.
: When in my cycle should the test be done?
: The best timing depends on why the test is ordered. Your provider may time it around ovulation or at another specific point in your cycle, so ask for clear instructions.
: Can I interpret my own progesterone result?
: You should not interpret the result on your own. Progesterone levels vary with cycle phase and pregnancy, and your provider will explain what the number means for your situation.
  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