Progesterone

DESCRIPTION:
Progesterone is a female sex hormone, a progestogen. Chemically, progesterone is a steroid with 21 carbon atoms (C21H30O2) and a molecular weight of 314.45 daltons. The primary role of progesterone is to prepare the uterus for the reception of male germ cells (to prepare the endometrium for implantation) and to regulate pregnancy thereafter. Progesterone acts in conjunction with other female sex hormones. In non-pregnant women, progesterone is produced and secreted by the corpus luteum. In pregnant women, the placenta is the primary source of progesterone. Small amounts of progesterone are also produced in the adrenal glands and testes. The progesterone test is a direct examination (proof) of ovulation. The test is performed 7–10 days after ovulation (on day 21 of the menstrual cycle, “Cycle Day 21,” for women who typically have menstruation every 28–30 days). This test is also performed to assess the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.

DETERMINATION:
Method of determination: Electrochemiluminescence (ECLIA). The sample for analysis is serum or plasma (heparin or EDTA). The sample is stable for 5 days at 2–8°C, and 6 months at -20°C.

RESULT:
The reference interval depends on age and the method of determination. The reference interval is displayed on each validated report.