What is Progesterone?
Progesterone is a key hormone that plays an important role in the female reproductive system and pregnancy. Some key points about progesterone:
- Progesterone is a steroid hormone produced mainly by the corpus luteum in the ovary during the second half of the menstrual cycle.
- It helps prepare the lining of the uterus for a fertilized egg to implant and grow. The uterine lining becomes thick and rich in blood vessels, ready to nourish a growing fetus.
- If pregnancy occurs, progesterone levels remain elevated to maintain the lining of the uterus during the first trimester. The placenta eventually takes over progesterone production.
- If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels drop around days 24-28 of a 28-day menstrual cycle. This signals the uterus to shed its lining, resulting in menstruation.
- Progesterone has other important functions as well. It helps maintain pregnancy by relaxing smooth muscle tissue in the uterine lining to allow implantation. It also inhibits immune cells from attacking the fetus.
- Natural progesterone production declines with age, sometimes causing irregular periods and infertility. As a result, progesterone supplements or creams may be used to treat these conditions.
- Synthetic progestins (progesterone-like compounds) are key components of some hormonal contraceptives and menopausal hormone therapy. However, natural progesterone likely has fewer side effects.
So in summary, what is progesterone?
Progesterone is an essential reproductive hormone produced by the ovaries that prepares the body for pregnancy each month. It maintains pregnancy by nurturing the uterus and developing fetus. Declining progesterone can disrupt menstrual cycles and fertility. Supplementing with natural progesterone may help treat these issues from Rebalance Hormone Health.