Progesterone
progesterone test · day 21 progesterone · ovulation blood test
This is a blood test from a vein. From your progesterone level, the doctor can tell if you ovulated and how the second half of your cycle works.
When planning a pregnancy, for infertility, irregular periods, and sometimes in early pregnancy.
⏱ Duration: the blood draw takes a few minutes; results usually come in 1 to 3 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Cycle day. Usually about 7 days before your next period is due. With a 28-day cycle, that is around day 21. Your doctor will tell you the exact day.
- Food. Best in the morning before eating, or a few hours after a light meal. Check with the lab.
- The day before. For 24 hours, no alcohol and no hard workouts. Best not to smoke in the morning.
- Medicines. Do not stop them on your own. Tell your doctor what you take. They will decide if anything should change.
What to bring
- Your test request form
- Your ID
- A record of your periods for the last few months
How it goes
- You sit down and rest your arm on the armrest
- A band is tightened above your elbow
- The skin is wiped with antiseptic
- A quick prick, and blood fills a tube
- The needle comes out, and a cotton pad is pressed on the spot
What you'll feel
- A quick prick, like a pinch
- Sometimes slight dizziness. Tell the nurse
Afterwards
- Press the cotton pad for 3 to 5 minutes and keep your arm straight
- You can eat right away and go back to your usual day
- Results usually come in 1 to 3 days. The lab will tell you when
Common questions
Why isn't progesterone tested early in the cycle?
It rises after ovulation. So the test is done in the second half of the cycle.
What if my cycle is irregular?
Tell your doctor. They will suggest a day or order the test a few times.