Progesterone
Evaluates progesterone levels.
About this test
Progesterone can help assess whether ovulation has recently occurred when collected at the right time.
Common reasons for testing
- Selected evaluation of ovulation.
- Monitoring as part of a clinician-directed fertility plan.
These are examples of clinical uses. Your history and symptoms determine whether testing is appropriate.
What to expect
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a brief pinch and have mild bruising. Tell the person collecting your sample if you have fainted with needles or take a blood thinner; keep pressure on the site afterward.
Appointment length
Your visit is expected to take about 15 minutes at our West Ashley location.
Categories
Preparation
- For ovulation assessment, collection is often about one week before the expected next period, not automatically day 21.
- Tell the team about hormone treatment, contraception, supplements, pregnancy, and the first day of your last period, if applicable.
- Ask whether a particular collection time or menstrual-cycle day is needed for your clinical question.
- Bring a list of medicines and supplements, including biotin, vitamins, and hormones. Do not stop or change prescribed medicines unless your clinician tells you to.
Instructions for this appointment
- Results for this test can vary by menstrual-cycle day. Please let us know the first day of your last period when booking.
Follow the instructions confirmed for your order. If they differ from the general guidance, contact the team before changing food, fluids, or medicines.
Order requirement
No outside order needed
Understanding your results
- One value cannot assess the overall quality of the luteal phase or establish pregnancy location or viability.
What happens next?
Review the report with your clinician alongside your symptoms, medical history, and earlier results. A value outside the reference range does not always mean disease, and a normal result does not explain every symptom. Confirm who will arrange any repeat or additional testing.
Sources & further reading
This patient summary draws on published clinical literature and professional guidance. Patient resources are identified separately below. Preparation also depends on your specific order and the collecting laboratory or imaging team.
- Diagnosis and treatment of luteal phase deficiency: a committee opinion
Fertility and Sterility, 2021
- Fertility evaluation of infertile women: a committee opinion
Fertility and Sterility, 2021
Content updated October 11, 2026. General education; individual advice comes from your care team.
Know the cost before your visit
Palmetto Preventive is a direct-pay service. You will see clear payment terms before your booking is finalized — no surprise lab bill.
Self-pay price
One transparent price for this test. Payment terms are presented before your booking is finalized.
Start bookingOur pricing promise
Transparent self-pay pricing — you see the price before you book.
No surprise lab bill after your visit.
If testing is not approved, your payment is refunded in full.
Ready to get started?
Start the guided booking. It takes just a few minutes, and you can move back and forth without losing your answers.