Progesterone Ovulation Timing: The Evidence and Protocol¶
Progesterone is the gold standard for timing canine ovulation — the single most important application of quantitative POCT in reproduction. This page summarizes the evidence and the protocol.
Why Progesterone for Timing¶
Progesterone rises predictably around ovulation, providing a numerical marker of exactly where the bitch is in her cycle:
| Progesterone (ng/mL) | Stage | Action |
|---|---|---|
| < 1 | Anestrus / early proestrus | Monitor |
| 1–2 | Approaching LH surge | Begin daily testing |
| 2–5 | Ovulation window | Breed / AI |
| > 5 | Post-ovulation | Confirm |
The Serial Measurement Principle¶
A single progesterone value cannot pinpoint ovulation — the trend identifies it. The protocol:
- Start day 5–7 of estrus.
- Test every 2–3 days until the rise begins.
- Test daily through the 2–5 ng/mL window.
- Breed/AI during the window.
Why Same-Day Results Are Essential¶
Ovulation timing is time-critical — the fertile window is days, not weeks. A send-out lab result arriving days later misses the window entirely. Same-day quantitative POCT is what makes precise breeding management possible.
References¶
- Østergård Jensen S, Öberg J, et al. Validation of a dry-slide immunoassay for progesterone analysis in canine plasma in a clinical setting. Vet Clin Pathol. 2022;51(4):553-560. PMID: 35854401
- Nowak M, Boos A, et al. Luteal and hypophyseal expression of the canine relaxin (RLN) system during pregnancy: Implications for luteotropic function. PLoS One. 2018;13(1):e0191374. PMID: 29364921
For the review policy, see the Editorial & Review Policy.
Authored by: Migibio Clinical & Scientific Affairs, Guangzhou Magic Biotech Co., Ltd.
Reviewed by: Migibio R&D Quality Committee
Last updated: 2026-08-13
Disclosure: Migibio (Guangzhou Magic Biotech Co., Ltd.) is the manufacturer of the FIA680/FIA880 analyzers and FICT reagents referenced in this content. See our Editorial & Review Policy.