If you’re trying to get pregnant, progesterone is one of the most important hormones to understand, especially after 40. Low progesterone can cause short luteal phases, implantation issues, and early miscarriages, yet it’s rarely tested correctly.
Many women are told their progesterone is “normal” without understanding whether it’s truly optimal for conception. This can lead to unnecessary fear, incorrect treatments, or feeling stuck despite doing everything else right.
Timing is Everything
The key to accurate testing is timing. Progesterone must be measured seven days after ovulation—not automatically on cycle day 21. That day only works if you ovulate on day 14, which is rare, particularly for women over 40.
A mistimed test can make a perfectly healthy level appear “low,” leaving you confused and frustrated. Here’s a simple guide:
- Ovulation on day 11 → test on day 18
- Ovulation on day 17 → test on day 24
This small adjustment can completely change the interpretation of your results and help you understand what’s really happening hormonally.
Optimal vs. “Normal”
Don’t settle for the lab’s definition of “normal.” Many labs report that a progesterone level above 5 ng/mL confirms ovulation, but for supporting implantation and early pregnancy, we’re aiming for a peak around 15 ng/mL or higher. That’s the level that truly signals your body is ready to support a healthy pregnancy.
Low Progesterone Isn’t a Diagnosis
Here’s the good news: low progesterone isn’t a permanent problem. It’s a signal that your body needs support. And in many cases, the ovaries themselves aren’t the root issue.
What often needs attention are the factors that influence ovulation and corpus luteum function:
- Chronic stress (cortisol suppresses progesterone)
- Gut health imbalances
- Hidden nutrient deficiencies
- Blood sugar instability
- Weak ovulation due to suboptimal estrogen earlier in the cycle
- Thyroid issues that disrupt hormone production
Addressing these areas creates an environment where your body can thrive and naturally produce the progesterone needed to support conception.
How We Tackle This
In the Fertile After 40 Masterclass, we don’t just put a band-aid on symptoms. We dig deep to uncover the root causes affecting your hormones and fertility. The goal is to create a strong hormonal foundation, optimize ovulation, and support your body naturally, so you’re ready for conception and a healthy pregnancy.
Progesterone is just one piece of the puzzle and getting it right can transform your fertility journey.
Ready to take control of your fertility after 40? Learn how to support progesterone, ovulation, and overall reproductive health in the Fertile After 40 Masterclass. Click here to join and start creating the environment your body needs to conceive naturally.