Pregnanediol is a metabolite of the molecule of progesterone, which is important for fertility and for menstruation. Pregnanediol levels increase after ovulation and when the placenta releases the hormone.
When pregnanediol levels fall during a menstrual cycle, it means that progesterone levels are less than ideal. It results in symptoms during the luteal phase.
During the adaptation of the body to menopause, progesterone levels fall and estrogen dominance begins. That’s when progesterone supplements may be offered to manage the symptoms. Some of the symptoms include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood instability, low sex drive, sleep problems, brain fog, hair loss, loss of muscle mass and strength, weight gain and anxiety.
Various normal ranges*:
- Luteal (premenopausal) Range: 2000 - 9000 ng/mg
- Postmenopausal Range: 60-200 ng/mg
- Follicular Range: 100-300 ng/mg
- Ovulatory Range: 100-300 ng/mg
- Oral Progesterone (100mg) - Range: 2000-9000 ng/mg
*the Luteal Range is the premenopausal range. When patients are taking oral progesterone this range for progesterone metabolites is not luteal and reflects the higher levels expected when patients take oral progesterone. This test is intended to be taken in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (days 19-22 of a 28 day cycle) for premenopausal women.
Sources:
- http://www.labtesthelp.com/test/Pregnanediol
- http://meridianvalleylab.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Urine-Hormone-Interp-Guide.pdf
- https://www.gdx.net/product/complete-hormones-test-urine
b-Pregnanediol (postmenopausal range)
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