Progesterone · low result
Low progesterone: symptoms, causes and what to test
Short answer
Progesterone rises only after ovulation, so a 'low' result in the first half of the cycle is normal — timing is everything. Drawn about a week after ovulation (day 21 of a 28-day cycle), a level below about 3 ng/mL suggests ovulation didn't occur that cycle, which happens with PCOS, thyroid disease, high prolactin, perimenopause, stress or low body weight. Low progesterone in early pregnancy is assessed by an obstetric clinician, not a single value.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
What is the normal range for Progesterone?
- Male, age 18+: 0.100 – 0.500 ng/mL
- Female, age 18+, varies by cycle phase: 0.100 – 25.0 ng/mL
Full reference table, citations and testing options: Progesterone biomarker page.
What are the common causes of low Progesterone?
- Sample drawn before ovulation (normal)
- Anovulatory cycle: PCOS, thyroid disease, high prolactin, perimenopause, stress, low body weight
- Menopause
- Hormonal contraception (suppresses ovulation)
What symptoms go with low Progesterone?
- Irregular or absent periods
- Difficulty conceiving
- Spotting, short cycles
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Confirm the cycle day; repeat 7 days after suspected ovulation
- TSH, prolactin, LH/FSH, androgens
- Ovulation tracking across a cycle
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: TSH Test (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ($26.99), TSH with Reflex to Free T4 Test ($29.99), TSH + Free T4 Test ($27.99), FSH Test (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) ($29.99), LH Test (Luteinizing Hormone) ($36.99), Prolactin Test ($39.99).
How do you recheck Progesterone?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Women's Fertility Essentials | Panel · 5 tests | $119.99 | No | 3–5 business days |
| Menopause & Perimenopause Test Panel | Panel · 8 tests | $179.99 | No | 2–4 business days |
| Women's Hormone Panel | Panel · 11 tests | $239.99 | No | 3–5 business days |
| Progesterone Test | Test | $31.99 | No | 1–3 business days |
Common questions
What progesterone level confirms ovulation?
Above about 3 ng/mL in the mid-luteal phase indicates ovulation occurred; above 10 ng/mL is considered a healthy luteal level by many clinicians.
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.