A progesterone test can provide valuable information about your cycle, ovulation and hormonal health. Progesterone rises after ovulation and plays a crucial role in the second half of your menstrual cycle.
When is a progesterone test worthwhile?
A progesterone test is useful for confirming ovulation, investigating irregular cycles, fertility planning, early perimenopause detection and severe PMS symptoms.
When to test
Test on days 19-22 of a 28-day cycle (the luteal phase). For longer cycles, test 7 days before your expected period. Testing at the wrong time can give a falsely low result.
Normal progesterone values
Follicular phase: below 3 nmol/L. Luteal phase: 10-80 nmol/L (indicates ovulation). Above 30 nmol/L strongly confirms ovulation. Post-menopause: below 3 nmol/L.
Frequently asked questions
Can I test progesterone and oestradiol at the same time?
Yes, though the ideal timing differs: oestradiol is best tested on days 2-5, while progesterone is best on days 19-22.
Tags
Author