Progesterone - Vitality Hormone Center

What is Progesterone?

Progesterone is an important hormone that plays many crucial roles in the female reproductive system and pregnancy.

What Does Progesterone Do?

Some key functions of progesterone include:

• Preparing the uterus for pregnancy each month as part of the menstrual cycle
• Thickening the uterine lining (endometrium) so it can support a growing embryo if fertilization occurs
• Helping to maintain pregnancy by preserving the uterine lining and preventing contractions of the uterus
• Supporting the early development of the fetus in the womb
• Controlling effects of estrogen in the body

Progesterone levels rise and fall during the menstrual cycle. After an egg is released from the ovaries (ovulation), the corpus luteum produces more progesterone to thicken the uterine lining in case of pregnancy.

If no pregnancy occurs, progesterone levels drop, leading to menstruation. If pregnancy does occur, the placenta takes over progesterone production to maintain high levels throughout pregnancy.

Where Does Progesterone Come From?

During the menstrual cycle, progesterone is produced mainly by the ovaries. Specifically, it is secreted by the corpus luteum, which forms from the leftover follicle after the egg is released at ovulation.

During pregnancy, the main source of progesterone shifts to the placenta. The placenta starts making more progesterone after about 8-10 weeks of pregnancy.

Some progesterone is also produced by the adrenal glands.

Too Much or Too Little Progesterone

Abnormal progesterone levels can cause issues:

• Low progesterone may lead to infertility, irregular periods, or increased risk of miscarriage in some cases.
• High progesterone from external sources can suppress ovulation and menstruation. Birth control pills and hormone therapy often use progesterone for this purpose.

Talk to your doctor if you suspect hormone imbalances like estrogen dominance or low progesterone based on symptoms. They can test levels and recommend treatment options like natural progesterone creams or supplements if needed.

I hope this gives you a good overview of the important hormone progesterone! Let me know if you have any other questions.