Progesterone Test
A progesterone test measures the level of progesterone in a sample of your blood.
A progesterone test measures the level of progesterone in a sample of your blood. Progesterone is a hormone that's made mainly by the ovaries, which are two glands in the female reproductive system that contain eggs. Each month, progesterone prepares your uterus for pregnancy . During the first half of a normal menstrual cycle , estrogen makes the lining of your uterus grow thicker. In the second half, an ovary releases an egg and your progesterone levels begin to rise. Progesterone gets the lining of your uterus ready for a fertilized egg to attach (implant) and grow into a fetus. If you don't become pregnant , your progesterone levels will fall. The lining of your uterus will thin, and your uterus will get rid of the extra blood and tissue when your menstrual period begins. If you become pregnant , progesterone levels will continue to rise to support the pregnancy. High levels of progesterone: Cause cells in the lining of your uterus to produce proteins that are necessary for the attachment of a fertilized egg. Cause the creation of white blood cells that will make sure your immune system doesn't attack the fertilized egg. Prevent the uterus from contracting (squeezing) and causing pre-term labor . Play a role in the development of the placenta, an organ that grows in the uterus to provide nutrients and oxygen to the fetus. Once the placenta is fully formed, it will make much of the progesterone you need for a healthy pregnancy. Other names: serum progesterone, progesterone blood test, PGSN
Why is this test ordered? You may need a progesterone test if: You are having trouble getting pregnant. A progesterone test can help your health care provider see if your ovaries are releasing eggs (ovulating) normally. You are having fertility treatments. You are having abnormal bleeding when you're not pregnant. You have signs of low progesterone such as irregular menstrual periods, hot flashes, and trouble sleeping. You have signs of high progesterone such as vaginal dryness and bloating. It's common to have your progesterone levels tested as part of a panel of tests you may get if you're pregnant. You may also need a progesterone test while pregnant if: You're having progesterone therapy to prevent a miscarriage. Your provider wants to check the health of your pregnancy because you have a higher risk for miscarriage or other pregnancy complications. You have signs of a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, such as cramps or bleeding.
Clinical Interpretation
The meaning of your test results depends on: Why you were tested. Where you were in your menstrual cycle when your blood sample was taken. Whether or not you're pregnant. High progesterone levels: When you're not pregnant may be linked to: A cyst on your ovaries . Ovarian cancer. Adrenal gland problems, including adrenal gland cancer , or an inherited disorder called congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Higher than expected progesterone levels when you are pregnant , may mean you're having two or more babies. High progesterone levels may also be a sign of a molar pregnancy, which is an abnormal growth of tissue in the uterus. It's caused by a fertilized egg with such severe genetic problems that it cannot become a fetus. The growth can turn into cancer and must be removed. Low progesterone levels: When you're not pregnant , may be linked to: Not ovulating normally. Not having a menstrual period (amenorrhea). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that causes missed periods and unpredictable ovulation. High stress. Too much of the stress hormone cortisol can affect your body's ability to make progesterone. Perimenopause. This is the time just before menopause. Low cholesterol. When you're pregnant , may be linked to: Ectopic pregnancy. Miscarriage or a high risk of miscarriage. Pre-eclampsia . Your provider can explain what your test results say about your health. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results .
Clinical Protocol & Patient Advice
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You usually don't need any other preparations for a progesterone test. In certain cases, you may need to know the first day of your last menstrual period. Your provider will tell you if you need to stop taking any medicines before the test. But never stop taking medicine unless your provider tells you.
Usage Guidance
- Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Always discuss your specific results with a qualified healthcare professional.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. View the original.