Progesterone - Vitality Clinic

Progesterone is a key hormone that plays an integral role in the female reproductive system and pregnancy. This steroid hormone is produced mainly by the ovaries and placenta during a woman's menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Some key facts about progesterone:

• It helps prepare the uterus for pregnancy each month by building up the uterine lining, also called the endometrium. This provides a place for a fertilized egg to implant and grow.
• It helps maintain pregnancy by preserving the uterine lining and blood vessels that nourish the developing fetus.
• Progesterone levels steadily rise during the luteal phase (after ovulation) and early pregnancy. This signals to the body that ovulation has occurred.
• In the middle of your cycle, a surge of luteinizing hormone triggers ovulation. After you ovulate, the empty follicle left behind transforms into a corpus luteum gland, which starts pumping out progesterone.
• If pregnancy occurs, hCG from the embryo will signal to the corpus luteum to keep producing progesterone. Later in pregnancy, the placenta takes over progesterone production.
• Progesterone levels start to decrease before a woman's period when the corpus luteum breaks down. This signals the next menstrual cycle to begin.
• Synthetic progesterone medications (progestins) can be used for hormone therapy to treat menstrual irregularities, infertility, early menopause symptoms, and to lower cancer risks in some cases.

In summary, progesterone plays a vital function in preparing for and upholding pregnancy each menstrual cycle. Tracking your progesterone levels can provide insight into your fertility and hormonal health. Visit Vitality Clinic for more information.