What Should Progesterone Be on Day 3?
On day 3 of the menstrual cycle, a woman's progesterone level should typically be less than 1.5 ng/ml. This low level is expected during the early follicular phase, indicating that ovulation has not yet occurred and the uterine lining is preparing for a new cycle.
Testing progesterone levels on day 3 is crucial for assessing baseline hormone function at the start of the menstrual cycle. It helps confirm that the ovaries are in a resting state before follicle development truly begins. A higher-than-expected progesterone level at this stage might sometimes suggest the presence of a cyst or indicate an anovulatory cycle from the previous month.
Understanding normal hormone ranges is key to assessing fertility health. The table below provides a clear reference for progesterone levels at different points in the cycle:
| Hormone | Time of Test | Normal Value |
|---|---|---|
| Progesterone (P4) | Day 3 | < 1.5 ng/ml |
| Progesterone (P4) | 7 days past ovulation (dpo) | > 15 ng/ml |
While day 3 progesterone levels are expected to be low, progesterone plays a vital role later in the cycle, particularly after ovulation. A significant rise in progesterone, typically measured around 7 days past ovulation (dpo), confirms that ovulation has occurred and that the body is adequately preparing the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy. For more comprehensive information on fertility tests and understanding your hormone levels, you can refer to reliable resources such as the American Pregnancy Association.
