Progesterone - Balanced You

What is Progesterone?

Progesterone is an important hormone that plays many crucial roles in the female reproductive system and pregnancy.

What Does Progesterone Do?

Some key functions of progesterone include:

• Prepares the uterine lining for implantation of a fertilized egg
• Supports the early stages of pregnancy by maintaining the uterine lining and preventing contractions
• Contributes to menstruation if pregnancy does not occur by withdrawing progesterone levels
• Balances and opposes estrogen levels in the body

Where Does Progesterone Come From?

In women who are not pregnant, progesterone is produced mainly by the ovaries during the second half of the menstrual cycle. The corpus luteum, a temporary gland that forms on the ovary after ovulation, secretes high levels of progesterone for about 2 weeks.

If a pregnancy occurs, the placenta takes over progesterone production as the corpus luteum breaks down. The placenta manufactures progesterone levels that continue rising during the first trimester.

Progesterone Levels Throughout Pregnancy

• First trimester: Levels rise steadily to support new embryo
• Second trimester: Levels peak and plateau
• Third trimester: Levels remain high to prevent early labor
• Birth: Levels rapidly decline allowing labor to begin

Monitoring progesterone levels helps ensure healthy pregnancy outcomes, and doctors at Balanced You may prescribe progesterone supplements if levels are abnormally low.