Test library
Pregnenolone Level Test
This blood test measures pregnenolone, a steroid hormone made from cholesterol and used as a building block for other hormones. Results are interpreted with related steroid tests.
Order Pregnenolone Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Pregnenolone Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $175
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The Pregnenolone Test measures the amount of pregnenolone in the blood. Pregnenolone is a steroid produced from cholesterol and serves as a precursor for many other hormones, including progesterone, DHEA, and cortisol. Because it sits near the start of several hormone pathways, it is usually evaluated alongside related steroids rather than on its own. A qualified healthcare provider can explain what the result means in the context of your symptoms and other tests.
What this test measures
Pregnenolone is formed in the adrenal glands, gonads, and other tissues from cholesterol. It is the first steroid in a series of conversion steps that lead to mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, and sex hormones. Measuring pregnenolone in blood can provide information about the activity of the early part of these pathways. Levels can vary with time of day and with the activity of the glands that produce it.
The test is performed on a serum sample, and results are reported as a quantitative concentration using the units specified by the laboratory. When a broader evaluation is needed, related markers such as 17-hydroxypregnenolone, DHEA, DHEA sulfate, progesterone, or cortisol may be ordered at the same time. Sample timing may be specified by the ordering provider because hormone levels can shift during the day.
Pregnenolone testing may be requested when a healthcare provider is evaluating steroid hormone production, adrenal function, or symptoms that could relate to hormone pathways. It is rarely diagnostic on its own and is interpreted with the clinical picture and other laboratory results. A qualified healthcare provider should review the findings and determine whether further evaluation is needed.
- Pregnenolone, serum
- Pregnenolone sulfate when specified by the order
- Quantitative result reported in the laboratory's designated units
- 17-hydroxypregnenolone when an expanded steroid panel is ordered
- DHEA or DHEA sulfate when included in a broader panel
- Progesterone when included in a broader panel
Why people order this test
- Evaluate the early steps of steroid hormone production
- Add detail to an adrenal or hormone evaluation
- Investigate symptoms possibly related to steroid pathways
- Follow up on other abnormal steroid hormone results
- Provide baseline information before or during a specialist evaluation
How to prepare
No special preparation is usually required, but the ordering provider may specify a collection time because hormone levels can vary during the day. A blood sample is drawn at the lab, and normal meals are generally fine unless other tests require fasting.
Understanding your results
Results are typically available within one to three business days. A pregnenolone value is interpreted relative to the reference range and alongside related hormones; it is not used alone to diagnose a condition. A qualified healthcare provider should review the result with your history.
Pregnenolone Level Test by state
Alabama
Pregnenolone Level Test across Alabama.
Alaska
Pregnenolone Level Test across Alaska.
Arizona
Pregnenolone Level Test across Arizona.
Arkansas
Pregnenolone Level Test across Arkansas.
California
Pregnenolone Level Test across California.
Colorado
Pregnenolone Level Test across Colorado.
Connecticut
Pregnenolone Level Test across Connecticut.
Delaware
Pregnenolone Level Test across Delaware.
Florida
Pregnenolone Level Test across Florida.
Georgia
Pregnenolone Level Test across Georgia.
Hawaii
Pregnenolone Level Test across Hawaii.
Idaho
Pregnenolone Level Test across Idaho.
Related tests
12 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 12 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
12 Panel Drug Testing
Compare 12 Panel Drug Testing options and order online.
7 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 7 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
9 Panel Drug Test
Compare 9 Panel Drug Test options and order online.
9 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 9 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does pregnenolone do?
Pregnenolone is a precursor steroid. The body converts it into other hormones, including progesterone, DHEA, and cortisol, which are involved in many normal functions.
Why would a healthcare provider order this test?
It may be ordered when evaluating steroid hormone production or adrenal function, usually together with other hormone tests rather than by itself.
Does pregnenolone testing diagnose adrenal disorders?
No single hormone value confirms a diagnosis. Results are interpreted with other laboratory tests, symptoms, and a clinical evaluation.
Does the time of day matter for this test?
Hormone levels can vary with time of day, so your provider may request collection at a particular time. Follow the instructions given with your order.
How is the sample collected?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm, during a short lab visit.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
Reviewed by the LabOrdering Editorial Team
Every page on this site is reviewed for clarity, sourcing, and accuracy. We update our library as testing options, collection networks, and accreditation standards change.