What is this test?
17-OH progesterone is an intermediate steroid hormone produced mainly in the adrenal glands and gonads.
Why might it be ordered?
- To screen for or help evaluate congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
- With signs of increased androgens, cycle disorders, puberty or fertility.
What sample is needed?
A healthcare professional collects a venous blood sample. Depending on the method, the laboratory uses serum or plasma.
How should you prepare?
Collection time and, in women, the cycle day may matter. Follow the requested protocol and report steroid and hormone medicines. Tell the laboratory about all medicines, hormone treatments, vitamins and supplements you take. Do not stop or change treatment unless your clinician tells you to. Follow any instructions about fasting and the time of collection.
How should you understand the result?
A borderline or high result may require a repeat sample or an ACTH stimulation test. A single value is not diagnostic. Your result is interpreted using the reference interval on the laboratory report and in the context of your symptoms, medical history and other test findings.
Sources and editorial status
This patient-facing text is an editorial draft. It should be approved by a laboratory physician before official publication.