Progesterone

Test description

Progesterone is a hormone produced after ovulation by the corpus luteum. It prepares the uterine lining for embryo implantation, supports early pregnancy, stabilises mood, and affects sleep quality. Its concentration changes predictably throughout the cycle, which is why the timing of the sample collection is crucial for interpretation. A measurement taken approximately 7 days after ovulation (most often on day 21 of a 28-day cycle) is the best laboratory confirmation that ovulation has indeed occurred. Abnormally low values suggest an anovulatory cycle or corpus luteum insufficiency – a common, yet easily overlooked cause of difficulty conceiving and recurrent early miscarriages. Progesterone deficiency relative to oestrogen can also be a cause of premenstrual tension, breast tenderness, spotting before menstruation, irritability, anxiety, and insomnia. The test is important in both infertility diagnosis, monitoring hormone therapy, and assessing cycles in perimenopausal women.

Biomarkers measured