Progesterone, Immunoassay

Progesterone is a hormone that is secreted by the ovaries. It plays a main role in pregnancy, as it helps the uterus support the fertilized egg and causes the female breasts to secrete milk. The levels of this hormone vary depending on the menstrual phase you are in, but it is usually elevated in pregnancy. The Progesterone blood test measures progesterone levels in the blood. This test identifies the causes of infertility in women, monitors miscarriage risk, and diagnoses an ectopic pregnancy. Progesterone is also produced in males, but it is secreted in minimal amounts by the adrenals and the testes, and its purpose includes the development of sperm.