Progesterone Testing & Ovulation Timing: What You Need to Know

Question
Hello Dr. Rappaport,

My husband and I are trying to get pregnant and haven't been able to do so yet, so we went to an RE. He has sent me for a battery of tests, including progesterone, which is supposed to be done day 22-23 of my cycle.

My question is this... I don't ovulate normally until day 19-20 of my cycle, whereas most others are around day 14. Might the progesterone levels be skewed since I will only be 2-3 days past ovulation?

Thanks!
Amy

Answer
Even if you normally do not ovulate until cycle day #19, the progesterone test will still give an indication of progesterone deficiency or luteal phase defect. If the level is low, you should be on progesterone supplementation while trying to conceive and up to 12 weeks gestation once you do become pregnant. Follow the instructions of the RE, who is an expert in the field.