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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Hormones

Progesterone

Progesterone plays a role in recovery, sleep quality, and hormonal balance for active individuals. For female athletes, monitoring progesterone can help understand how training interacts with the menstrual cycle and overall performance.

Reference Ranges

Male
nmol/l
Low 0.3 Normal 1.2 High
Female
nmol/l
Low 0.6 Normal 81 High

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

What It Measures

This test measures the concentration of progesterone in your blood. In women, progesterone rises after ovulation during the luteal phase. In men, small amounts are produced by the adrenal glands and testes as part of normal hormone metabolism.

Why It Matters

For performance-focused individuals, progesterone fluctuations may influence energy levels, body temperature regulation, and recovery capacity across the menstrual cycle. Understanding these patterns can help optimize training periodization.

When to Test

Testing is typically recommended during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, about 7 days after expected ovulation. It may also be requested during early pregnancy or when investigating irregular cycles or infertility.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Some people with low progesterone may experience irregular or heavy periods, spotting before periods, difficulty conceiving, mood changes, or sleep disturbances. Low progesterone may also be associated with early pregnancy complications.

High Levels

Elevated progesterone levels may be associated with bloating, breast tenderness, mood changes, or drowsiness. High levels outside of pregnancy could sometimes suggest ovarian cysts or adrenal conditions.

Recommendations

Male

If Low

Low progesterone in men is generally not concerning and rarely requires treatment.

If High

Elevated progesterone in men may indicate adrenal disorders or certain tumors. Consult with an endocrinologist for evaluation.

Female

If Low

Low progesterone may indicate luteal phase defect, anovulation, or early pregnancy complications. Consider consultation with a gynecologist or fertility specialist.

If High

High progesterone is normal during pregnancy. Outside pregnancy, it may indicate ovarian cysts or adrenal disorders. Consult with your healthcare provider.

Lifestyle Tips

Maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep may support healthy progesterone levels. Some nutrients such as vitamin B6, zinc, and magnesium are often associated with progesterone support. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to test progesterone?
Progesterone is typically tested about 7 days after ovulation, during the mid-luteal phase. Your healthcare provider can help determine the optimal timing based on your cycle length.
Can progesterone confirm ovulation?
Yes, elevated progesterone during the luteal phase is one of the most reliable indicators that ovulation has occurred. Low levels may suggest anovulation.
Do men also produce progesterone?
Yes, men produce small amounts of progesterone in the adrenal glands and testes. It serves as a precursor for testosterone and cortisol and plays a supporting role in male hormonal balance.