17-OH Progesterone Test

17-OHP is made as part of the process of producing cortisol. The 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) test is used to screen for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and may be used along with other tests to help diagnose and monitor CAH. CAH is a glandular disorder that results in the adrenal glands being unable to create sufficient cortisol, and it may increase the production of male sex hormones called androgens.

The following are normal ranges based upon certain phases of the menstrual cycle and pregnancy:

Female (pre-ovulation): less than 1 nanogram per mililiter (ng/mL) or 3.18 nanomoles per liter (nmol/L) Female (mid-cycle): 5 to 20 ng/mL or 15.90 to 63.60 nmol/L. Male: less than 1 ng/mL or 3.18 nmol/L.

High levels of 17-OH progesterone can indicate a condition called congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). CAH is a glandular disorder that results in the adrenal glands being unable to create sufficient cortisol, and it may increase the production of male sex hormones called androgens. People who have classic CAH are at risk of adrenal crisis because they have very low levels of cortisol in the blood. This can cause diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, low blood sugar levels and shock. Adrenal crisis is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

Low values of 17-OHP are found in adrenal hypofunction, whether of adrenal or hypothalamic/pituitary origin.

There are some classic signs of low progesterone:

Irregular Menstrual Cycles. Progesterone is the main hormone responsible for regulating your cycle. Infertility. Headaches or Migraines. Mood changes, including anxiety or depression. Hot Flashes. Weight Gain. Fibroids, Endometriosis.

How can I naturally increase progesterone?

Eating a diet full of nutrients and omega 3 fatty acids, such as cold water fish or flax, improves the ability of the body to produce progesterone. Take in Vitamin B and C rich foods every day, as the body does not store them, and they are essential to reducing estrogen to balance progesterone.