Progesterone

Progesterone is an important hormone that plays a vital role in the female menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

What Exactly is Progesterone?

Progesterone is a steroid hormone produced mainly by the corpus luteum in the ovary during the second half of the menstrual cycle. Here's a quick overview:

• It helps prepare the uterus for pregnancy each month by building up the uterine lining, also called the endometrium


• It helps maintain pregnancy if an egg is fertilized by preventing contractions and repairing the uterine lining


• It balances and opposes the effects of estrogen in the body


• It is essential for maintaining regular menstrual cycles and ovulation

Progesterone levels rise after ovulation, peak during the luteal phase, and then drop sharply before menstruation begins if no pregnancy occurs.

What Does Progesterone Do in the Body?

Some of progesterone's key roles include:

• Working with estrogen to promote the growth of milk ducts in the breasts


• Helping to reduce inflammation and prevent osteoporosis


• Supporting thyroid hormone balance and bone growth


• Promoting sleep, relieving anxiety, and boosting libido

During pregnancy, progesterone helps prevent contractions of the uterus so the fetus can grow. The placenta also produces high levels of progesterone to support fetal development.

If you think you may have a progesterone deficiency, be sure to get your hormone levels tested. The experts at Optimal Hormone Solutions can help diagnose and treat any imbalances with comprehensive testing and personalized bioidentical hormone therapy programs. Their integrated approach looks at lifestyle, nutrition, stress levels, and supplements in addition to hormone optimization.

How is Progesterone Measured and Assessed?

Blood tests and urine tests can accurately measure progesterone levels to help assess:

• Ovulation and luteal phase length


• Causes of abnormal uterine bleeding


• Risk of miscarriage or preterm labor


• Perimenopause and menopause transition stages


• Effectiveness of progesterone treatment

In summary, progesterone is the key pregnancy-sustaining hormone that works synergistically with estrogen during the menstrual cycle. Getting your progesterone checked by a hormone health specialist can uncover potential issues like infertility or increased miscarriage risk. Consider contacting the compassionate team at Optimal Hormone Solutions today if you have additional questions!