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Progesterone, serum or plasma, mass concentration

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

A progesterone blood test measures the level of the hormone progesterone in your blood, which helps evaluate ovulation, the menstrual cycle, and early pregnancy.

Quick summary

["Progesterone testing is mainly used to check whether you are ovulating and to help assess early pregnancy or hormone imbalances."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
17483-9
Short code
Progest Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Progest Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Is Progesterone?

Progesterone is a hormone produced mainly by the ovaries after ovulation and, during pregnancy, by the placenta. It helps prepare the lining of the uterus for a possible pregnancy and supports early pregnancy.

Why the Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order a progesterone test to see whether ovulation has occurred, to investigate irregular or absent periods, to help evaluate infertility, or to monitor early pregnancy. It may also be used when a hormone disorder such as an adrenal or ovarian problem is suspected.

How the Sample Is Collected

The test usually requires a small blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. The specimen is typically serum or plasma, which the laboratory prepares from the blood sample before measuring the progesterone concentration by mass.

What the Results Can Mean

Progesterone levels change throughout the menstrual cycle and rise during pregnancy, so results are interpreted in the context of your cycle timing and symptoms. Higher or lower than expected levels can suggest issues with ovulation, pregnancy, or hormone regulation, but results are not diagnostic on their own.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Progesterone measurement is an important tool in reproductive endocrinology. It can confirm that ovulation has taken place, support the evaluation of infertility and menstrual disorders, and help monitor early pregnancy. It may also be used in assessing certain adrenal or ovarian conditions. Because reference ranges vary by laboratory and depend on cycle day, pregnancy status, age, and sex, results should always be interpreted by a clinician alongside your history and other tests.

Short name

Progesterone

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to time the test to my menstrual cycle?
Yes, timing can matter. Providers often schedule progesterone testing at a specific point in the menstrual cycle, such as about a week after expected ovulation, or during early pregnancy, because normal ranges differ by cycle phase and pregnancy status. Follow your provider's instructions.
Do I need to fast before a progesterone test?
Fasting is usually not required for a progesterone blood test. However, follow any specific instructions your healthcare provider or laboratory gives you, especially if other tests are being drawn at the same time.
Can medications affect progesterone results?
Some medications and hormonal treatments can affect progesterone levels or the test result. Tell your provider about all medicines, supplements, and hormonal products you use so the results can be interpreted correctly.
  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