What Is Ovulation?

The menstrual cycle is split into the follicular phase and the luteal phase, with ovulation occurring between the two phases. Ovulation occurs whenhormone changes trigger an ovary to release an egg. These hormone changes are an increasing level of estrogen in the follicular phase, which triggers a rapid increase in the luteinizing hormone. This “LH surge” causes ovulation – the release of the mature egg from the ovary.

Why Take This Test?

This test is targeted towards women who are trying to get pregnant, are at risk of pregnancy complications (e.g. miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy), or showing other signs of abnormal ovulation. Measurements of progesterone midway through the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle can determine whether or not ovulation has occurred. Low progesterone levels (<3-4 ng/mL) at days 21 to 23 of the menstrual cycle are a strong indication that ovulation did not occur; and hence conception would not be possible.

How It Works

Order your test.

Choose the test that matches your need from our large array of tests. The kit will be delivered to your doorstep. There is no need to leave the comfort of your home.

Collect your sample.

Register and activate your test. Collect your sample first thing in the morning. Return your sample to our lab as soon as possible, using the prepaid envelope included in the kit.

Quality guarantee.

Your sample will be tested as soon as it arrives in our lab. Your results will be available through our secure online platform.

Progesterone

Progesterone is a female sex hormone that is essential for the preparation of the uterus for implantation by causing the uterine lining to thicken. Progesterone also acts in non-reproductive tissues, often in partnership with estradiol. Examples include estradiol reduction of bone resorption and progesterone stimulation of bone formation, and coordinated increases in nitric oxide activity to improve blood flow.

Progesterone levels are low (<15 ng/mL) during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. At ovulation, progesterone levels increase, reaching a peak of 10-20 ng/mL after 6-8 days (midway through the luteal phase). If no conception occurs, progesterone levels decline and menstruation beings. If an egg is fertilized, the corpus luteum maintains progesterone levels until around week six. The placenta produces progesterone for the remainder of the pregnancy, with levels increasing to 10-50 ng/mL in the first trimester, and 50-280 ng/mL in the third trimester.

Abnormally low progesterone levels are observed in mid-luteal phase in females whom have disorders of ovulation. This luteal phase deficiency is associated with infertility and spontaneous abortion, and is estimated to occur in approximately 10% of infertile women. Low progesterone levels during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy are indicative of threatened abortion and ectopic pregnancy.

Details and FAQs

Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about our Ovulation Confirmation Progesterone Test. Please feel free to contact us if you have any other questions.

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Are there medical professionals involved in the process?
All of our tests are developed with advice and input from medical professionals.

When do I collect my sample for this test?
For an accurate analysis of ovulation confirmation, the sample for this progesterone test must be collected around 7 days before your next expected period. Generally this is on day 21-23 of the menstrual cycle, depending on the total length of your menstrual cycle. Results may be inaccurate in this test if you are currently taking hormonal contraceptives or have taken hormonal contraceptives within the last three months. An irregular menstrual cycle may also lead to inaccuracies in this progesterone test.

Will I receive any guidance with my results?
All result reports will include brief and easy to understand interpretations of each of the biomarkers tested. Background information is also available, but we recommend that you share your test results with your healthcare provider to obtain the most benefit from your test results.

How does the Ovulation Confirmation Progesterone Test work?
Self-collect your sample following the detailed instructions included in the kit. Place your sample in the specimen bag provided and mail it back to the lab using the prepaid envelope inside the kit.

Our lab uses the verified and approved Alinity i Progesterone chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) to accurately measure the levels of progesterone in the sample provided. Your results are available through our online portal as soon as testing is complete.

How accurate is the testing process
Your samples are processed in the same labs used by primary care providers, hospitals, and government agencies.

Therizon laboratories are CLIA-approved and CAP-accredited, which are the highest levels of accreditation. Tests kits are manufactured within our ISO 17025 accredited facility, the highest level of accreditation for medical devices.

What are my options if I have abnormal results?
It is important to share any abnormal results with you healthcare provider, as they can take into consideration your medical history, any previous test results, physical examinations, and other factors to determine the best treatment option.