Progesterone is an important steroid hormone involved in the female menstrual cycle and pregnancy. During the menstrual cycle, progesterone helps prepare the lining of the uterus for a fertilized egg. If pregnancy occurs, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy by supporting the uterine lining.
Key facts about progesterone:
- Produced mainly by the corpus luteum in the ovaries during the second half of the menstrual cycle
- Helps build up the lining of the uterus in preparation for implantation of a fertilized egg
- Supports early pregnancy by maintaining the uterine lining and preventing contractions
- Levels rise steadily during pregnancy until the placenta takes over production
- Often used in fertility treatments or hormone therapy to help support pregnancy
Low progesterone can lead to fertility issues like difficulty getting pregnant or maintaining a pregnancy. Symptoms of low
progesterone may include irregular periods, spotting, and short luteal phases.
If you suspect you have low
progesterone, see an endocrinologist or reproductive endocrinologist to get tested. They can check your
progesterone levels at different times during your cycle to see if supplementation could help.
At
Hormone Harmony Clinic, our caring doctors specialize in fertility and can provide individualized care including
progesterone testing and supplementation if needed. We provide both vaginal and injectable
progesterone treatment options to best meet each patient's needs. Schedule a consultation to learn more.
Progesterone tests like the
progesterone challenge test can help diagnose issues:
- Blood tests check progesterone levels at cycle days 19-21 when they should peak
- Challenge tests check how the uterine lining responds to supplemental progesterone
- Results inform treatment plans like timed intercourse, IUI, or IVI to support early pregnancy
Progesterone supplementation comes in capsules, vaginal gel/suppositories, injections, and more. It helps:
- Thicken the uterine lining
- Prevent early contractions
- Support embryo implantation
- Maintain early pregnancy
Work with a reproductive endocrinologist to determine if
progesterone could help you get and stay pregnant. They can prescribe the right type and dose based on your hormone profile and needs.
At
Hormone Harmony Clinic, our specialty pharmacies provide convenient access to
progesterone treatments our doctors may prescribe during your fertility journey. We offer complimentary delivery options.
In summary,
progesterone plays a key role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Testing and treatment can help those struggling with fertility or recurrent pregnancy loss. Connect with the fertility specialists at
Hormone Harmony Clinic to learn more about your
progesterone levels and options. We're here to help you achieve your dreams of building a family.