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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Hormones

17-OH Progesterone levels: what this blood test measures

17-OH Progesterone is a steroid hormone that plays an important role in your hormonal balance. It serves as a building block for cortisol and androgens, and its levels may fluctuate throughout your menstrual cycle.

Reference Ranges

Female
nmol/L
Low 0.3 Normal 7.5 High

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

What It Measures

This test measures the level of 17-hydroxyprogesterone in your blood. Elevated or reduced levels may indicate how effectively your adrenal glands and gonads are producing cortisol and sex hormones from this essential precursor.

Why It Matters

Understanding your 17-OH Progesterone levels may help provide insights into your hormonal health and cycle regularity. Levels outside the expected range could suggest adrenal or hormonal considerations worth discussing with your healthcare provider.

When to Test

Testing may be recommended when symptoms of adrenal dysfunction or hormonal imbalance are present. Your healthcare provider might suggest early morning testing, as levels follow a diurnal pattern and are typically highest in the morning. The test uses a small blood sample, usually with no special preparations beyond timing it in the early morning.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Some people may experience fatigue, low blood pressure, or salt cravings when 17-OH Progesterone levels are below the expected range. These symptoms could suggest insufficient adrenal hormone production. A healthcare provider can help determine the cause.

High Levels

Some people may experience acne, excess body hair, or irregular menstrual cycles when 17-OH Progesterone levels are elevated. In some cases, higher levels may accompany signs of increased androgen activity, which can include acne, excess body hair, or a deepening voice. Whether these relate to an enzyme deficiency such as CAH is something a healthcare provider can help assess from your test results. Androgens such as testosterone may also be reviewed alongside this marker.

Lifestyle Tips

Managing stress through regular exercise, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques may support healthy adrenal function. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals could also contribute to optimal hormone production. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance. A hormone blood test can review this value alongside other hormones. Every blood test result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 17-OH Progesterone?
It is a steroid hormone precursor used by your body to produce cortisol and sex hormones.
Why would my doctor test this?
Your doctor may test it to evaluate adrenal gland function or investigate hormonal imbalances.
Do levels change during the day?
Yes, levels typically follow a diurnal pattern and are usually highest in the early morning.