What is progesterone?
Progesterone is a key hormone involved 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.
Some key facts about progesterone:
- It helps prepare the lining of the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg. If pregnancy occurs, progesterone levels remain elevated to maintain the pregnancy.
- It helps regulate the monthly menstrual cycle. Along with estrogen, progesterone causes the endometrium to thicken in preparation for implantation.
- It suppresses further ovulation during pregnancy. This prevents additional eggs from being released and fertilized.
- It has other effects on the body like preparing the breasts for milk production.
Now you may ask - what causes low progesterone? There are several potential causes:
- A luteal phase defect, meaning the corpus luteum does not produce enough progesterone in the luteal phase (after ovulation).
- Problems with ovulation resulting in no corpus luteum forming.
- Problems with the adrenal glands not producing enough progesterone precursor.
- Certain medications like estrogen alone without progesterone.
Low progesterone can lead to issues like infertility, irregular periods, PCOS, and trouble getting pregnant.
Some symptoms of low progesterone include:
- Short luteal phase (<10 days)
- Spotting before period
- Low basal body temperature
- Estrogen dominance symptoms like breast tenderness
Luckily there are treatments available if you have low progesterone levels. Some options include:
- Progesterone supplements - These help boost levels and can be used for luteal phase defect or during IVF cycles.
- Lifestyle changes - Reduce stress, exercise, eat a healthy diet. This helps support natural progesterone production.
- Herbal remedies - Some herbs like chasteberry may help mildly increase progesterone levels.
- Hormone replacement therapy - Taking progesterone with estrogen around menopause can help maintain hormone balance.
Our expert physicians at Vitality Hormone Clinic specialize in customized treatments for hormonal imbalances involving progesterone. We offer cutting-edge testing and both traditional and natural hormone therapies to help patients restore optimal hormone levels. Schedule a consultation today to find out if low progesterone could be causing symptoms for you. We're here to help you feel your best!