Progesterone is frequently referred to as the “pregnancy hormone.” What is progesterone exactly and how does it support pregnancy?
Understanding progesterone’s role can help you know what to expect throughout your pregnancy or conception journey. In this article, we explore the So, let’s take a closer look.
What Is Progesterone?
Progesterone is produced by the ovaries and later by the placenta. This hormone prepares the uterine lining for pregnancy, helping with embryo implantation.
Here is a more comprehensive list of progesterone’s functions:
- Prepares the uterine lining for implantation
- Regulates the menstrual cycle
- Support pregnancy
- Improves mood
- Decreases uterine contractions
- Supports thyroid function
Unfortunately, low progesterone may make conception more difficult. and may increase your risk of a miscarriage. However, many things can be done to support your body and increase your chances of a successful pregnancy.
Role Of Progesterone In Pregnancy
In the following sections, we explore progesterone’s role during pregnancy in more detail.
Early Pregnancy Progesterone
In early pregnancy, progesterone levels rise rapidly. This surge helps maintain the uterine lining. It also signals to the body to stop ovulation.
During these early weeks, progesterone is primarily produced by the corpus luteum (the remains of the follicle after the egg is released). The placenta starts to make progesterone at around 6-8 weeks. the placenta takes over progesterone production completely after around 10 weeks..
Common progesterone symptoms during this time may include:
- Breast tenderness
- Mood changes
- Nausea
- And fatigue.
Progesterone During Pregnancy
Progesterone continues to rise throughout most of the pregnancy. It supports fetal growth and development.
Progesterone also modulates the maternal immune response. This is necessary to protect the developing embryo from being attacked by the mother’s immune system.
Additionally, increased progesterone contributes to the relaxation of the muscles and ligaments in the pelvic floor. This prepares the body for birth. However, this may lead to challenges later on—such as pelvic discomfort and incontinence. Thus, many healthcare providers recommend kegels and pelvic floor physiotherapy post-birth.
Pregnancy And Low Progesterone
Low progesterone in pregnancy can lead to various complications, including miscarriages. Fortunately, there is treatment for low progesterone levels.
Symptoms Of Low Progesterone Levels
Common signs of low progesterone include:
- Spotting or bleeding
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Frequent low back pain
- Recurring headaches
- Increased anxiety or mood swings
If you’re experiencing any of the above, make sure to discuss it with your doctor or gynecologist. They may order a blood progesterone level and/or take a detailed history of your symptoms. From there, they can help you determine the best treatment going forward.
Treatment for Low Progesterone During Pregnancy
The good news is that low progesterone is entirely possible to treat. Doctors often prescribe progesterone supplements for low levels or simply because you report symptoms of low progesterone. These supplements can be administered as vaginal suppositories, oral tablets, or injections
Progesterone Therapy In Pregnancy
Ultimately, hormone therapy is the best treatment method for low progesterone. This can be useful for both conception and throughout pregnancy.
Progesterone therapy is often used for:
- Preventing preterm labor
- Supporting early pregnancy in IUI or IVF treatments
- Reducing the risk of recurrent miscarriagesUse of Progesterone During IUI or IVF Treatments
Due to the beneficial effects of progesterone, patients at TRIO undergoing fertility treatments are often prescribed additional progesterone supplements in the form of vaginal suppositories, oral tablets, or injections.
Progesterone dosing is typically adjusted based on symptoms of low progesterone rather than through frequent blood tests, so the dosage and length of treatment can vary for each individual. At TRIO, our dedicated team of Canada’s leading fertility specialists and award-winning IVF labs is here to support you through every step. Connect with a TRIO Care Navigator today to learn more.
FAQs
How to support progesterone levels naturally?
There are more than a few ways to support progesterone levels. A balanced diet that is rich in vitamins B and C, magnesium, and zinc can aid the production of this hormone. Regular exercise, stress reduction, and maintaining a healthy weight may also help.
References:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK582914/
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24562-progesterone
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0301211521000610
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/abs/hormones-and-pregnancy/role-of-progesterone-in-pregnancy/EC24EC27222B55224A017B67E9CEEC7E
- https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/low-progesterone#symptoms
