What is progesterone?
Progesterone is a steroid hormone that plays a vital role in the female menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Known as the "pregnancy hormone", progesterone helps prepare the body for pregnancy and maintains the pregnancy if conception occurs.
Some key facts about progesterone:
- Produced mainly by the corpus luteum in the ovary after ovulation. The corpus luteum forms from the follicle that released the egg.
- Levels rise after ovulation, peak during the luteal phase (second half) of the menstrual cycle, and drop sharply if pregnancy does not occur. This signals menstruation.
- Has key functions like thickening the uterine lining to support a fertilized egg, maintaining the pregnancy, and suppressing further ovulation during pregnancy.
- Works together with estrogen in a delicate balance. Declining progesterone signals the uterus to shed its lining, starting the next cycle.
When are progesterone levels checked?
Doctors may check blood tests for progesterone in cases of:
- Irregular periods - Low progesterone can lead to irregular cycles and problems getting pregnant.
- Recurrent pregnancy loss - Low levels can indicate luteal phase defects.
- Infertility - Testing helps assess ovulation and luteal function.
- Menopause symptoms - Fluctuating hormones lead to symptoms like hot flashes.
If levels are low, progesterone supplements or devices may be used to help treat infertility, prevent miscarriage, or relieve menopausal symptoms.
Bioidentical progesterone options
For hormonal balance needs, the Hormone Harmony Clinic offers natural bioidentical progesterone options including:
- Progesterone creams - absorbed through the skin
- Progesterone capsules - taken orally
- Vaginal suppositories or gels
Our clinicians help determine the ideal type, dose, and duration of progesterone for your specific hormonal needs. Schedule a hormone assessment today for personalized treatment options!
So in summary, progesterone plays a key role in regulating the reproductive system and pregnancy. Getting your levels checked and using bioidentical progesterone under medical supervision can help resolve many hormonal issues. Let us know if you have any other questions!