What is the Progesterone test?

The Progesterone blood test measures progesterone, a hormone primarily produced by the ovaries after ovulation and, during pregnancy, by the placenta. Progesterone plays a vital role in regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting early pregnancy.

This hormone prepares the uterine lining for implantation and helps maintain pregnancy in its early stages. Progesterone levels fluctuate significantly throughout the menstrual cycle, rising after ovulation and falling before menstruation.

The test is commonly used in fertility assessment, menstrual cycle evaluation, and hormone balance investigation in both women and, in some cases, men.

Why do I need a test for Progesterone?

Progesterone testing helps determine whether ovulation has occurred and whether hormone levels are adequate to support a healthy menstrual cycle or early pregnancy. It is particularly useful when cycles are irregular or fertility is a concern.

It is also relevant in individuals experiencing hormonal symptoms, pregnancy-related concerns, or monitoring hormone therapy.

You may benefit from this test if you experience:

• Irregular or absent periods

• Difficulty conceiving

• Suspected anovulation

• Premenstrual symptoms

• Early pregnancy monitoring

• Hormonal imbalance symptoms

• Monitoring fertility treatment

• Assessment of luteal phase function

Benefits of the Progesterone test

1. Confirms ovulation
   Helps determine whether ovulation has occurred.

2. Supports fertility assessment
   Evaluates hormone levels needed for conception.

3. Assesses menstrual cycle health
   Identifies luteal phase hormone patterns.

4. Supports early pregnancy assessment
   Progesterone is essential for pregnancy maintenance.

5. Evaluates hormonal imbalance
   Useful when symptoms suggest hormone dysregulation.

6. Monitors fertility treatment response
   Helps assess effectiveness of ovulation induction.

7. Relevant for menstrual irregularities
   Identifies hormonal causes of cycle disruption.

8. Provides insight into reproductive health
   Supports personalised fertility and hormone planning.

Step-by-step – how we offer Progesterone testing

Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic

• Attend your appointment

• Blood sample collected by a qualified clinician or phlebotomist

• Sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis

At-home or hotel testing (+£60)

• A qualified phlebotomist visits your home or hotel

• Blood sample collected in a comfortable, familiar setting

• No clinic visit or travel required

Both services are available UK-wide.

Your Progesterone results explained

Low progesterone levels

Low progesterone may indicate that ovulation has not occurred or that progesterone production is insufficient during the luteal phase. This can affect menstrual regularity and fertility.

Low levels may be associated with anovulation, luteal phase deficiency, or hormonal imbalance.

UK reference interpretation:

• Low (luteal phase): <16 nmol/L

Normal progesterone levels

Normal levels suggest successful ovulation and appropriate progesterone production for the phase of the menstrual cycle. This supports a healthy uterine environment.

Interpretation depends on cycle timing and clinical context.

UK reference interpretation:

• Normal (luteal phase): ≥16 nmol/L

High progesterone levels

High progesterone levels are commonly seen after ovulation and during pregnancy. Elevated levels outside expected contexts may occur with progesterone supplementation or certain hormonal conditions.

Results should always be interpreted alongside symptoms and cycle phase.

UK reference interpretation:

• High: Above expected range for cycle phase