Progesterone
| Category | Biochemistry |
|---|---|
| Test background |
Following ovulation the corpus luteum secretes progesterone which prepares and maintains the endometrium for pregnancy. Progesterone concentration >30 nmol/L at mid-luteal phase confirms ovulation and values >20 nmol/L in the luteal phase are highly suggestive of recent ovulation. Progesterone rises during pregnancy, is used to support pregnancy in donor egg cycles, and is occasionally used in diagnosis and monitoring of ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage. |
| Clinical Indications |
Confirmation of ovulation |
| Reference range | Female follicular: <5 nmol/L Female luteal: >20 nmol/L |
| Sample & container required | Serum (red top) ONLY. SST (gold top) samples will be rejected due to interaction of progesterone with the gel. |
| Sample volume | 0.5 mL |
| Turnaround time | 1 day |