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.
What does progesterone do?
Progesterone has several key functions:
- Prepares the lining of the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg
- Supports pregnancy by maintaining the uterine lining and preventing contractions
- Contributes to the development of breast tissue during puberty and pregnancy
During the menstrual cycle,
estrogen levels rise in the first half leading up to
ovulation. After the egg is released, the corpus luteum produces progesterone to thicken and prepare the uterine lining for potential implantation.
If pregnancy occurs, progesterone levels remain elevated to maintain the lining and prevent contractions. Progesterone relaxes smooth muscle tissueallowing the uterus to expand as the fetus grows.
If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels drop signaling menstruation.
In addition to its role in pregnancy, progesterone also impacts body temperature regulation, water retention, and libido. Declining progesterone levels prior to menstruation can contribute to
PMS symptoms.
As women age and approach menopause, progesterone levels start to naturally decline. This transition can sometimes cause uncomfortable symptoms. The knowledgeable doctors at
Renew Medical HRT Clinic can provide personalized care including
bioidentical hormone therapy to help ease this transition for women in the Chicago area. Their cutting edge therapies safely replicate the body's natural hormones.
When should progesterone levels be checked?
Some key times progesterone levels may be checked include:
- If a woman is having difficulty getting pregnant or having multiple miscarriages
- To check for hormonal imbalances contributing to PMS or peri-menopause
- To monitor hormone replacement therapy
- To evaluate possible pituitary or ovarian issues
How can progesterone levels be increased?
If progesterone is found to be low, here are some ways to boost levels:
- Progesterone creams - Topical over-the-counter creams can modestly increase progesterone levels
- Progesterone supplements - Such as oral micronized progesterone capsules
- Bioidentical progesterone therapy - Individualized prescriptions provide optimal progesterone dosing
- Chasteberry supplements - Herbal supplements that may support progesterone production
The compassionate providers at Renew Medical HRT Clinic offer cutting edge bioidentical hormone therapy to help patients achieve ideal hormone levels. Contact them today for a consultation!