Progesterone peaks a week after ovulation for women, approximately days 18-21 of the cycle. The reference range modern labs are using is:
5.82- 75.8 nmol/l
It is strange that the reference range is so wide.
I tested my progesterone level a bit later than the peak period, but it still came out a decent level at 57.800 nmol/l which is above the middle of the reference range (35.04 nmol/l). I do not supplement progesterone.
Still, I have issues that Ray Peat associated with low progesterone, namely hormonal acne around ovulation and before bleeding, and hirsutism. Some degree of menorrhagia also.
My question is, could the reference range be similar to the one for TSH, i.e. they've gradually expanded the lower limit over time, as to normalise widespread hormonal imbalance?
What did Ray Peat consider the optimal range for progesterone on the days of the female cycle during which it peaks?
5.82- 75.8 nmol/l
It is strange that the reference range is so wide.
I tested my progesterone level a bit later than the peak period, but it still came out a decent level at 57.800 nmol/l which is above the middle of the reference range (35.04 nmol/l). I do not supplement progesterone.
Still, I have issues that Ray Peat associated with low progesterone, namely hormonal acne around ovulation and before bleeding, and hirsutism. Some degree of menorrhagia also.
My question is, could the reference range be similar to the one for TSH, i.e. they've gradually expanded the lower limit over time, as to normalise widespread hormonal imbalance?
What did Ray Peat consider the optimal range for progesterone on the days of the female cycle during which it peaks?