Progesterone is a key hormone that plays an integral role in the female menstrual cycle and pregnancy. This steroid hormone is produced mainly by the ovaries and placenta.
Some key facts about progesterone:
- It helps prepare the body for conception and pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise after ovulation, during the luteal phase, to help thicken and maintain the lining of the uterus. This provides a place for a fertilized egg to implant and grow.
- If pregnancy occurs, progesterone levels remain elevated to maintain the uterus lining. If no pregnancy occurs, progesterone levels drop, leading to menstruation.
- It helps support pregnancy. Progesterone continues rising during pregnancy and promotes fetus development in the uterus. This hormone has anti-inflammatory effects and helps maintain pregnancy by relaxing smooth muscle tissue.
- It balances with estrogen. These two hormones work together to regulate the menstrual cycle. Estrogen rises in the first half leading up to ovulation, while progesterone rises in the second half.
- It has other biological roles related to body temperature, metabolism, water retention, and more. For example, it can cause premenstrual symptoms like bloating.
Some key uses of progesterone include:
- Hormone therapy. Synthetic progestins may be used for birth control or to treat menstrual disorders, infertility, symptoms of menopause, and more.
- Support early pregnancy. Progesterone supplements can sometimes be used to help prevent miscarriage or preterm birth in high-risk women.
In summary, progesterone plays a vital role in the female reproductive system and pregnancy. This hormone fluctuates cyclically and works closely with estrogen. Monitoring progesterone levels is useful for tracking ovulation and diagnosing certain conditions. Supplemental progesterone may help high-risk pregnancies continue to term. Visit Vitality Wellness Center for more information.