A progesterone level drawn on day 21 of your menstrual cycle (assuming a 28-day cycle) provides valuable insight into ovulation. A level above 3 ng/mL generally suggests ovulation occurred. However, individual variation exists, so consider your personal history.
Factors Affecting Progesterone Levels
Several factors can influence your progesterone results. Body mass index (BMI), stress levels, and certain medications can affect hormone production. Accurate interpretation requires considering these factors.
Understanding Your Results
Low progesterone (10 ng/mL) usually confirm ovulation. However, it’s important to note that levels between 3 and 10 ng/mL may be ambiguous and require additional testing or clinical judgment.
Reference Ranges & Clinical Interpretation
| Below 3 | Suggests anovulation; further investigation may be needed. |
| 3-10 | Ambiguous; may require additional testing or clinical evaluation. Consider other factors, like timing of blood draw and menstrual cycle length. |
| Above 10 | Generally indicates ovulation occurred. |
Next Steps
If your Day 21 progesterone level is low or ambiguous, consult your doctor. They can assess your individual situation and recommend additional tests, such as ultrasound, to confirm ovulation or explore potential underlying causes of infertility.
