Progesterone testing is provided on a walk in basis by our in house laboratory. Progesterone testing helps our veterinarians determine ovulation. Progesterone is also normally at very low levels, then as the heat cycle progresses, progesterone will show a rise.
Progesterone Testing
Purpose and Timing
Progesterone testing helps our veterinarians determine ovulation. Progesterone is also normally at very low levels, then as the heat cycle progresses, progesterone will show a rise. Unfortunately, there is not a single number for determining the exact ovulation date. Our veterinarians look for a result between 4ng/ml-8ng/ml to determine baseline for beginning of ovulation cycle. As progesterone timing continues we look for a distinctive rise from the initial baseline results.
Progesterone remains elevated for 8-9 weeks (gestational period) whether or not the bitch is pregnant or was bred. At the end of the pregnancy (or non-pregnancy), the progesterone will begin to drop. The drop in progesterone causes labor to start and is also responsible for the symptoms of false pregnancy.
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If you arrived by 12pm for your test, the doctor’s recommendation will be available after 4pm the same day. You may be asked to recheck another test within 1-3 days or a recommendation for breeding dates will be relayed to you.
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If you arrive after 12pm, your results will be ready by 11am the following business day.
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Saturday progesterone tests available before 12pm for same day results, tests requested after 12pm results will be returned Monday.
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If you need results earlier in the day or you cannot come in until after 12pm (before 3pm) and still need same day results, we can run a STAT (faster) test for an additional $30 and your results will be available in 2-3 hours. STAT’s after 3pm are at office discretion due to maintenance requirements of the lab equipment.
