progesterone (ovulatory test)
Last reviewed 01/2018
Mid-luteal cycle progesterone - serum progesterone is tested one week before a period is expected (on day 21 of a 28 day menstrual cycle).
The level of progesterone that indicates ovulation is variable. NICE suggest that "..values range from 16 to 28 nmol/l as the lowest limit indicative of ovulation..." (1).
For assessment of ovulation for women with a regular menstrual cycle (2)
- Measure mid-luteal phase progesterone (e.g day 21 of 28 day cycle; day
28 of 35 day cycle):
- sample should be taken 7 days before the expected period and interpreted when the next period has begun
- >30 nmol/L is consistent with ovulation and no further biochemical assessment is indicated
- 10-30 nmol/L may require repeat with review of cycle timing
- <30 nmol/L (confirmed) requires further investigation as below for anovulation/oligo-ovulation
This is the most commonly used method.
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