Progesterone, LC/MS

Methodology

Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry

Assay Category

Quest Diagnostics developed this test and has determined its analytical performance characteristics.  This assay has been validated pursuant to the CLIA regulations and is used for clinical purposes.

Reference Range(s)

Pediatric Males

Pediatric Females

Adult Males

Adult Females

Progesterone's Importance

Progesterone is a crucial hormone for both men and women, playing significant roles in various physiological processes. While it is often associated with female reproductive health, its functions extend beyond this, impacting overall health and well-being in both genders.

Progesterone in Women

Reproductive Health

• Menstrual Cycle Regulation: Progesterone is essential for regulating the menstrual cycle. It prepares the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) for potential pregnancy after ovulation by promoting its thickening. If fertilization does not occur, progesterone levels drop, leading to menstruation. [1]
• Pregnancy Maintenance: During pregnancy, progesterone supports the early stages by maintaining the uterine lining and preventing uterine contractions that could lead to miscarriage. The placenta produces it later after the corpus luteum does so initially. [2]
• Breast Development: Progesterone stimulates the growth of breast tissue during puberty and prepares the breasts for lactation during pregnancy. [3]

Other Functions

• Mood and Sleep: Progesterone has calming effects and can improve mood and sleep quality. It interacts with brain chemicals to help regulate mood and reduce anxiety. [4]
• Bone Health: Progesterone plays a role in maintaining bone density, which is crucial for preventing osteoporosis. [5]

Progesterone in Men

Hormonal Balance

• Testosterone Production: Progesterone acts as a precursor to testosterone, the primary male sex hormone. It helps maintain adequate testosterone levels, which are vital for male characteristics and reproductive functions. [6]
• Counteracting Estrogen: Progesterone helps balance estrogen levels in men. Low progesterone can lead to "estrogen dominance," which can cause symptoms like erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and decreased libido. [7]

Physiological Functions

• Sperm Production: Progesterone is crucial for sperm production and maturation, impacting male fertility. [8]
• Mood and Stress: Similar to its effects in women, progesterone helps regulate mood and reduce stress levels in men. [9]
• Bone and Muscle Health: Progesterone supports the maintenance of lean muscle mass and bone density, contributing to physical strength and endurance. [10]

Health Implications

• Prostate Health: Adequate levels of progesterone are essential for maintaining prostate health and reducing the risk of prostate-related complications. [11]
• Metabolic Functions: Progesterone helps regulate blood sugar levels and can influence weight management by affecting appetite and fat metabolism. [12]

Clinical Implications and Treatment

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): For both men and women, hormone replacement therapy can be used to address low progesterone levels. In men, this often involves the use of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation, which acts as a precursor to progesterone and other hormones. [13]
• Vitamin D: Adequate vitamin D levels are important for progesterone production, and healthcare providers often assess vitamin D levels when treating progesterone deficiency. [14]

Progesterone's multifaceted roles in both men and women underscore its importance beyond reproductive health, influencing various aspects of physical and mental well-being.

Citations