Progesterone is an important hormone that plays a vital role in the female menstrual cycle and pregnancy. It is a steroid hormone produced mainly by the corpus luteum in the ovary during the second half of the menstrual cycle, known as the luteal phase.
Some key functions of progesterone include:
During the menstrual cycle, estrogen levels rise in the first half leading up to ovulation. After the egg is released, the corpus luteum produces more progesterone to thicken and prepare the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy.
If pregnancy occurs, the placenta takes over progesterone production to maintain the uterine lining and support fetal development during pregnancy. Progesterone helps suppress muscle contractions in the uterus to prevent miscarriage in early pregnancy.
If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels will drop, leading to breakdown and shedding of the uterine lining (your period). The cycle then repeats again.
Blood tests can check progesterone levels to assess ovulation or find the cause of certain fertility issues like recurrent miscarriages.
Progesterone supplements in the form of pills, injections, vaginal gels, or suppositories may be given to help treat:
Progesterone is essential for female reproductive health and pregnancy. Tracking progesterone levels and supplementing when deficient can help treat multiple gynecological and fertility conditions. Consult your doctor at Vitality Clinic to see if progesterone testing or treatment may be helpful for you.