Uses

Obtaining a progesterone blood level in an outpatient setting is a valuable tool for assessing hormonal balance and optimizing health. Progesterone plays a crucial role in menstrual cycle regulation, fertility, mood stability, and overall well-being. Measuring its levels can help identify deficiencies or imbalances that may contribute to issues such as irregular cycles, infertility, fatigue, anxiety, or poor sleep quality. For individuals undergoing hormone therapy, tracking progesterone ensures proper dosing and effectiveness. Additionally, it provides insight into adrenal function and overall endocrine health, making it a key marker for personalized health optimization strategies.

Progesterone is mainly formed in the cells of the corpus luteum and during pregnancy in the placenta. Progesterone is increased in congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase, 17-hydroxylase, and 11-β-hydroxylase deficiency. Progesterone is decreased in primary or secondary hypogonadism and short luteal phase syndrome.

The progesterone concentration correlates with the development and regression of the corpus luteum. Whereas progesterone is barely detectable in the follicular phase of the female cycle, a rise in the progesterone level is observed one day prior to ovulation. Increased progesterone synthesis occurs during the luteal phase. In the second half of the cycle pregnanediol is excreted in urine as the main degradation product of progesterone.

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. During pregnancy, progesterone inhibits the contraction of the myometrium. In the mammary gland, progesterone (together with estrogens) promotes the proliferation and secretion disposition of the alveoli.

The determination of progesterone is utilized in fertility diagnosis for the detection of ovulation and assessment of the luteal phase.