Progesterone Test
Test Overview
A progesterone test measures the amount of the hormone, Opens dialog progesterone in a blood sample. Progesterone is a hormone produced by the ovaries, Opens dialog during release of a mature egg from an ovary (ovulation). Progesterone helps prepare the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to receive the egg if it becomes fertilized by a sperm. If the egg is not fertilized, progesterone levels drop and menstrual bleeding begins.
During pregnancy, the placenta, Opens dialog also produces high levels of progesterone, starting near the end of the first trimester, Opens dialog and continuing until the baby is born.
Some types of cancer cause abnormal progesterone levels.
A progesterone test is done to:
- Help find the cause of infertility, Opens dialog.
- Monitor the success of medicines for infertility or the effect of treatment with progesterone.
- Help determine whether ovulation is occurring.
- Monitor the function of the ovaries and placenta during pregnancy.
- Help diagnose problems with the adrenal glands, Opens dialog and some types of cancer.
You may be asked to stop taking medicines (including birth control pills) that contain estrogen, Opens dialog or progesterone, or both, for up to 4 weeks before having a progesterone test.
A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm. Sometimes more than one blood sample may be needed. A sample may be taken each day for several days in a row.
Watch
When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.
There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.
Normal
Each lab has a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you.
Many conditions can change progesterone levels. Your doctor will discuss any significant abnormal results with you in relation to your symptoms and past health.
High values
High progesterone values may be caused by:
- Pregnancy.
- Cancer of the ovaries or adrenal glands.
- A molar pregnancy, Opens dialog.
- Overproduction of hormones by the adrenal glands, Opens dialog.
Low values
Low progesterone values may be caused by problems with ovulation, Opens dialog, the menstrual cycle, or pregnancy.
Current as of: April 30, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: April 30, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.