What is a progesterone test?
Serum progesterone is a test for measuring the amount of progesterone in the bloodstream. Progesterone is a hormone produced primarily by the ovaries, which are two glands of the a female reproductive system that contains ovules. The progesterone test measures the level of progesterone in a woman's blood or urine to investigate whether she is pregnant. This will help to identify when the last menstruation started.
How to prepare for the test
- The Healthcare provider will suggest whether the person has to stop taking medication before the test
- Don't stop or change a medication without a doctor's consultation
How is progesterone serum test is performed?
A blood test is required. In most cases, blood is collected from a vein within the elbow or back of the hand.
Why the test is performed -
- Find out whether a woman is ovulating or has recently ovulated
- Assess a woman with recurrent miscarriages
- Identify the risk of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy early in pregnancy
The test shows the progesterone level at that moment. But this will help if the person takes note of when the last menstruation began. These are ranges that are considered normal -
- Female (pre-ovulation): less than 1 nanogram per milliliter (ng/mL) or 3.18 nanomoles per liter (nmol/L)
- Female (mid-cycle): 5 to 20 ng/mL or 15.90 to 63.60 nmol/L
- Male: less than 1 ng/mL or 3.18 nmol/L
- Postmenopausal: less than 1 ng/mL or 3.18 nmol/L
- Pregnancy 1st trimester: 11.2 to 90.0 ng/mL or 35.62 to 286.20 nmol/L
- Pregnancy 2nd trimester: 25.6 to 89.4 ng/mL or 81.41 to 284.29 nmol/L
- Pregnancy 3rd trimester: 48 to 150 to 300 or more ng/mL or 152.64 to 477 to 954 or more nmol/L
What are the causes for abnormal progesterone levels?
- Not ovulating
- Menopause
- Miscarriage
Low progesterone levels are associated with:
- Obesity
- Insulin resistance
- High-stress levels
- Poor diet
- Lack of exercise
Higher levels of progesterone than normal can be caused by:
- Adrenal cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
If the menstrual cycles are regular, it is easier to determine when to test.
28 day cycle: Test Progesterone on day 21-23
21 day cycle: Test Progesterone on day 14-16
35 day cycle: Test Progesterone on day 28-30
Unipath performs this test with accuracy and shares reports within the timeline. For an accurate diagnosis, reach out to us at +91 (79) 4900 6800 or visit www.unipath.in for more information. Unipath specialty laboratory provides home sample collection also for your convenience.