Progesterone - Renew Health Clinic

What is Progesterone?

Progesterone is a key hormone that plays an important role in the female menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

What Does Progesterone Do?

Progesterone has several important functions:

• It prepares the uterine lining for implantation of a fertilized egg
• It maintains pregnancy by supporting the developing fetus
• It regulates the monthly menstrual cycle along with estrogen
• It helps develop breast tissue during puberty and pregnancy

Where Does Progesterone Come From?

During the menstrual cycle, progesterone is produced mainly by the corpus luteum in the ovary after the egg is released. The corpus luteum forms from the leftover follicle after ovulation.

If a pregnancy occurs, the placenta takes over progesterone production about 8-10 weeks into the pregnancy. The placenta continues releasing progesterone in high levels to support the pregnancy until delivery.

When Are Progesterone Levels Highest?

• Luteal phase: Progesterone levels rise significantly after ovulation, peak about 7 days after ovulation, and then fall sharply if no pregnancy occurs. This is called the luteal phase of the cycle.
• Pregnancy: If pregnancy occurs, progesterone levels remain elevated throughout the 9 months.

What Causes Low Progesterone?

Some common causes of low progesterone levels include:

• Loss of normal menstrual cycle function
• Problems with ovulation
• Issues with the ovaries or adrenal glands
• PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)
• Pituitary gland tumors
• Excess physical or emotional stress
• Being significantly underweight or overweight

Talk to your doctor if you suspect you have low progesterone levels to determine the underlying cause. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications, or supplements to help restore normal hormonal balance.

I hope this gives you a helpful overview on understanding what progesterone is, its key functions in the body, where it comes from, when levels peak, and possible causes of low progesterone. Contact Renew Health Clinic for more information or to schedule an appointment.