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Fertility Glossary

Progesterone

The hormone that prepares and supports the uterine lining after ovulation.

Anatomy & hormones

Progesterone is produced by the corpus luteum after ovulation and, later, by the placenta in pregnancy. It stabilises and matures the endometrium so it can support implantation and early pregnancy. A mid-luteal blood progesterone test is a common way to confirm that ovulation has occurred. In IVF and frozen embryo transfer cycles, progesterone support is routinely given after ovulation triggering or before and after transfer to support the uterine lining, following the treating clinician's protocol; patients should not adjust doses or timing without medical advice.

Also known as: progesterone test, luteal progesterone, progesterone support

Sources

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (icmr.gov.in)
  • ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)
  • Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (fogsi.org)

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only โ€” always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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