Progesterone is an important hormone in the female reproductive system. It plays a key role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
What Does Progesterone Do?
Progesterone has several key functions:
- It prepares the uterus for pregnancy each month by building up the uterine lining (endometrium). This provides a place for a fertilized egg to implant and grow.
- It supports early pregnancy by maintaining the uterine lining and early embryo development. Progesterone levels must remain high in early pregnancy to maintain the pregnancy.
- It balances the effects of estrogen in the body. Estrogen causes the uterine lining to thicken, while progesterone stabilizes it and prevents overgrowth.
Progesterone Levels Throughout the Menstrual Cycle
- Follicular phase - In the first half of the cycle leading up to ovulation, progesterone levels are low while estrogen levels are high. This causes the uterine lining to thicken.
- Ovulation - Progesterone begins to rise following ovulation, while estrogen levels drop.
- Luteal phase - In the second half of the cycle after ovulation, progesterone levels peak to prepare for potential pregnancy. It continues thickening the uterine lining.
- Menstruation - If no pregnancy occurs, progesterone levels fall dramatically, triggering menstruation and shedding of the uterine lining.
Progesterone and Pregnancy
If pregnancy occurs, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) from the embryo stimulates the corpus luteum to continue progesterone production. Levels remain high to maintain the uterine lining and support the embryo through the early months.
After the placenta fully develops (around weeks 12-16), it takes over progesterone production. Levels continue rising through the third trimester.
Progesterone has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant properties which prevent the mother's immune system from rejecting the fetus. This hormone is absolutely critical for a healthy pregnancy.
If you have concerns about your
progesterone levels impacting your fertility or pregnancy, have a consultation with the experts at
Optimal Hormone Wellness Center! Their cutting edge
hormone tests and personalized treatment plans can get your hormone balance optimized for peak reproductive health.
See below for some key facts on progesterone:
Quick Facts on Progesterone
- Produced mainly by the corpus luteum and placenta
- Peaks in the mid-luteal phase after ovulation
- Maintains uterine lining and supports early embryo
- Counterbalances estrogen effects on the reproductive system
- Essential for achieving and sustaining pregnancy
- Deficiency may cause irregular cycles or infertility
I hope this gives you a helpful overview on the crucial role of progesterone! Let me know if you have any other questions.
And don't forget to check out Optimal Hormone Wellness Center for all your hormone testing and treatment needs! Their experts stay on top of the latest research to provide effective solutions.