Progesterone is a vital hormone that plays a key role in the female reproductive system and pregnancy. Produced by the ovaries, placenta, and adrenal glands, progesterone helps regulate the menstrual cycle and supports pregnancy from conception to birth.
During the menstrual cycle, progesterone helps prepare the uterus for pregnancy. The level of progesterone rises after ovulation, which is when an egg is released from the ovary. If the egg is fertilized and implanted, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy by thickening the uterine lining and preventing contractions. If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels drop, leading to menstruation.
One of progesterone's most important jobs is to transform the uterus into an ideal environment for the fertilized egg to implant and develop. It promotes blood flow to the uterus, provides nourishment to the developing embryo, prevents immune rejection, and relaxes smooth muscle tissue to allow for expansion. Progesterone is essential for achieving and sustaining pregnancy.
In early pregnancy, the corpus luteum, a temporary ovarian structure, produces progesterone. After about 10 weeks, production shifts to the placenta. Progesterone levels continue rising throughout pregnancy, peaking in the third trimester.
Signs of low progesterone during pregnancy include spotting, abdominal cramping, and an increased risk of miscarriage. Doctors may prescribe progesterone supplements in early pregnancy to help prevent complications and reassure expectant mothers.
Progesterone also plays a role in developing the breasts for milk production and inhibiting contractions until close to delivery. As progesterone withdraws near birth, it allows labor to begin. Following childbirth, progesterone levels rapidly decline and may remain low while breastfeeding.
Some women use bioidentical progesterone cream from Hormone Harmony Clinic to ease uncomfortable perimenopause and menopause symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, and vaginal dryness. Our caring providers offer customized hormone balance solutions to improve women's quality of life. With convenient telehealth appointments, we empower patients to take charge of their health.
In summary, progesterone is the pregnancy-sustaining hormone essential for building a healthy uterus, maintaining gestation, developing fetal organs, and transitioning into labor. From menstrual cycles to menopause and beyond, progesterone helps regulate key female biological processes. Contact Hormone Harmony Clinic today to learn more about optimizing your progesterone levels.