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Progesterone Test Test

A progesterone test measures the level of progesterone in your blood. This hormone helps prepare the uterus for pregnancy and supports a healthy pregnancy.

What this test measures

A progesterone test measures the level of progesterone in a sample of your blood. Progesterone is a hormone made mainly by the ovaries that prepares the uterus for pregnancy and helps maintain pregnancy.

What your results mean

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.

Higher-than-normal results

High progesterone levels when not pregnant may be linked to ovarian cysts, ovarian cancer, or adrenal gland problems. Higher than expected levels during pregnancy may mean you're having twins or more, or could indicate a molar pregnancy.

Lower-than-normal results

Low progesterone levels when not pregnant may be linked to not ovulating normally, missed periods, PCOS, high stress, perimenopause, or low cholesterol. During pregnancy, low levels may be linked to ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage risk, or pre-eclampsia.

Frequently asked questions

What is a progesterone test?

It measures the level of progesterone in your blood. Progesterone is a hormone that prepares the uterus for pregnancy and helps maintain pregnancy.

Why might I need a progesterone test?

It can help check for infertility, monitor fertility treatments, assess miscarriage risk, diagnose ectopic pregnancy, or check adrenal gland function.

What do high progesterone levels mean?

If not pregnant, high levels may be due to ovarian cysts, ovarian cancer, or adrenal gland problems. During pregnancy, high levels may mean you're having twins or more, or could indicate a molar pregnancy.

What do low progesterone levels mean?

If not pregnant, low levels may be due to not ovulating, missed periods, PCOS, stress, perimenopause, or low cholesterol. During pregnancy, low levels may be linked to ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage risk, or pre-eclampsia.

What else can affect my results?

Your results depend on where you are in your menstrual cycle and whether you are pregnant. Your provider can explain what your results mean for you.

Related lab tests

Sources

Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.