Progesterone

What is progesterone?

Progesterone is a steroid hormone that plays a vital role in the female menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Some key points about progesterone:

• It is produced mainly by the corpus luteum in the ovary during the second half of the menstrual cycle after ovulation.


• Along with estrogen, progesterone helps control the menstrual cycle and prepares the uterus for pregnancy.


• It helps maintain the lining of the uterus to support pregnancy in the early stages. If pregnancy occurs, progesterone levels remain elevated throughout.


• If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels drop, leading to menstruation and the start of a new cycle.


• In addition to its role in pregnancy, progesterone helps regulate other body functions like body temperature.

Progesterone levels vary throughout a woman's life. For optimal health, it's important to maintain adequate progesterone levels. Factors like stress, diet, and aging can lead to a progesterone deficiency.

What are the symptoms of low progesterone? Some key signs are:

• Irregular or heavy periods


• PMS symptoms like mood swings


• Infertility or recurrent miscarriages


• Perimenopause or PCOS symptoms

If you're experiencing issues like these, get your hormone levels tested. Consider supplements or bioidentical hormones if deficient.

For personalized care, visit Endocrine Wellness Center. Our experts specialize in hormone testing and treatments for conditions related to hormone imbalances like low progesterone. Contact us today for a consultation!

How is progesterone administered? Progesterone can be taken:

• As progesterone pills like Prometrium


• Vaginal gels or suppositories


• Injections


• Compounded bioidentical creams

The route depends on the needed dose and reason it's prescribed. Work with a doctor to determine what progesterone preparation is right for your needs.

In summary, progesterone is an essential reproductive hormone with wider impacts on female health. Insufficient levels can lead to issues like infertility and unpleasant period symptoms. Getting tested and addressing deficiencies under medical supervision can help restore balance and wellbeing.