Progesterone ELISA (Direct Saliva)

Progesterone is a C-21 female sex steroid hormone with a variety of physiological effects. In the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, progesterone is produced in low levels. It increases to the LH peak and then sharply rises 3 to 4 days later to higher levels, remaining elevated through the 10th to 12th days after the LH peak. Then there is a sharp decline to the low levels of the follicular phase. It is responsible for the induction of the cyclic changes in the endometrium of the uterus allowing implantation and successful growth of the fertilized ovum and maintenance of pregnancy. Progesterone measurements are used in documenting ovulation and in the management of difficulties during the first trimester of pregnancy. Levels of progesterone may be useful in the evaluation of sterility due to luteal phase defects, prediction of impending abortion, and the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. Normal values of progesterone may be affected by drugs such as, oral contraceptives, super ovulatory drugs, estrogen replacement therapy medication, and GnRH analogues. The removal of ovarian function following surgical oophorectomy or chemotherapy may influence serum progesterone values.