Take charge of your health with Scan4Health’s 17 Alpha OH Progesterone test, a highly specialized, reliable blood test designed to evaluate adrenal gland function and detect hormonal imbalances. This assessment helps diagnose and manage conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia, disorders of sexual development, and unexplained symptoms in both children and adults. We focus on delivering accurate results quickly and supporting you every step of the way.

-> Fasting: Your doctor may recommend fasting for up to 8 hours before the test, especially if other blood tests are ordered together. Fasting is generally not necessary for newborns. -> Medication Guidance: Certain medications, including birth control pills, corticosteroids, and hormone therapies, may affect test results. Only change your medication if your doctor instructs you to do so. -> Timing: For women, the timing of blood collection during the menstrual cycle can impact hormone levels. Inform your care team about your cycle or any recent irregularities. -> Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arm or, for children, a location where a blood sample can be collected comfortably. -> Medical Records: If you have reports from previous hormone tests or a list of your current medications, please bring them with you. This will help us interpret your results accurately. -> Children: If the test is required for a child or newborn, a simple heel prick or routine blood draw suffices. Upon arrival, our team will guide you through the process, minimize discomfort, and answer any last-minute questions. Please inform staff if you experience symptoms like recent illness, dehydration, or medication changes, so the assessment is as accurate as possible.

The 17 Alpha OH Progesterone test is a precise blood evaluation of the hormone 17-hydroxyprogesterone—an important substance produced by the adrenal glands and, to a lesser extent, the ovaries and testes. This hormone acts as a chemical building block for cortisol and other steroid hormones involved in regulating blood pressure, metabolism, stress response, and the reproductive system. The primary clinical purpose of this assessment is to detect congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), an inherited disorder in which the adrenal glands cannot make enough cortisol, sometimes resulting in an overproduction of androgen hormones. The test is a routine part of newborn screening in many healthcare systems but is also recommended for adults or children with signs of androgen excess or adrenal dysfunction. These signs might include early or late puberty, ambiguous genitalia, irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, excess facial or body hair, or unexplained fatigue. During the procedure, a small blood sample is taken from a vein—usually in the arm for older children and adults, or via a heel or finger prick for infants. The collection is quick and relatively painless, with only a slight pinch. The sample is then sent to a specialized laboratory, where advanced technology measures the 17-OHP level. Results are usually available the same day, ensuring rapid follow-up and physician consultation. The information provided by this test is essential for distinguishing between various causes of hormonal imbalance, such as CAH, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), adrenal tumors, or late-onset enzyme deficiencies. It also helps monitor patients already diagnosed with CAH, confirming treatment success and guiding adjustments.

You can count on Scan4Health for reliable diagnostics, helpful advice, and caring support. Book your 17 Alpha OH Progesterone test with us today to learn more about your health and how to manage it.