Progesterone - Rejuvenate Hormone Therapy

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Progesterone is an important hormone that plays a vital role in the female menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

What Does Progesterone Do?

• Regulates the menstrual cycle and prepares the body for pregnancy each month
• Thickens the lining of the uterus to support a growing fetus during pregnancy
• Helps maintain pregnancy by relaxing smooth muscles to allow the embryo to attach to the uterus
• Balances estrogen effects on the body

Progesterone is secreted by the corpus luteum after ovulation during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. It causes the endometrium to thicken so that if fertilization occurs, the embryo can implant and grow.

If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels drop, which signals the body to shed the thickened uterine lining during menstruation. This starts a new cycle.

Progesterone Levels During Pregnancy

Progesterone production continues if pregnancy occurs. The placenta takes over progesterone production from the corpus luteum at around 10-12 weeks gestation.

• Progesterone relaxes smooth muscle tissue allowing the uterus to expand
• It inhibits immune responses so the mother's body accepts the fetus
• The hormone suppresses contraction of the uterine muscles to prevent preterm births

Progesterone levels peak in the third trimester, then fall sharply before birth which triggers labor. After delivery, levels rapidly return to normal pre-pregnancy ranges.

Progesterone Tests and Supplements

Doctors may test progesterone levels in women with recurrent miscarriages or infertility issues. Results outside normal limits may indicate a luteal phase defect meaning the uterine lining does not develop properly.

Progesterone supplements in the form of pills, injections, vaginal gels or suppositories may help treat these conditions. Doses aim to mimic normal physiological levels.

In summary, progesterone plays a vital role in the female reproductive system and pregnancy. It regulates the menstrual cycle, maintains early pregnancy, and supports fetal development right through to birth. Testing levels and progesterone therapy helps identify and treat many common gynecological issues.