Biochemistry
Haematology and Transfusion
Clinical Microbiology (Including Virology)
Cellular Pathology
General Information
Immunology
Molecular Pathology
Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
SerumProgesterone
Specimen Volume
2 ml bloodSample Preparation
Centrifuge specimen
Turnaround Time
24 hoursSample Processing In Laboratory
Usual
Sample Stability
Serum specimens in gel tubes are stable at 4ºC for 2 days, plain tubes are stable for up to 5 days. For longer periods store aliquots at -20ºC.
General Information
Progesterone is a steroid hormone, which plays an important role in the preparation for the maintenance of pregnancy. Progesterone is mainly formed in the cells of the corpus luteum and during pregnancy in the placenta. The progesterone concentration correlates with the development and regression of the corpus luteum.
Progesterone levels are characteristically low during the follicular phase and increase sharply during the luteal phase of menstrual cycle. Progesterone brings about the conversion of the uterine mucosa into a tissue rich in glands (secretion phase), in order to prepare for the intrauterine implantation of the fertilized ovum. Unless pregnancy occurs, a steep decline to follicular levels sets in about 4 days before the next menstrual period. This pattern constitutes the rational behind the well-established use of serum progesterone measurements as a simple and reliable method for ovulation detection. Progesterone measurement is also used to help diagnose an ectopic or failing pregnancy, to monitor the health during pregnancy, and to help diagnose the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding
Patient Preparation
None
Notes
Luteal samples - collect 7 days (+/- 2 days) before onset of next menstrual cycle.
Reference Range
Female:
- Follicular phase: <0.3 - 1.0 nmol/L
- Luteal phase: 3.8 – 50.6 nmol/L
Serum progesterone (Day 21) - >30 nmol/L suggests adequate ovulation
Postmenopausal: <0.3 - 0.6 nmol/L
Males:
- <0.3 - 0.6 nmol/L
Specifications
- EQA Status: NEQAS
- EQAS Scheme: Yes