Progesterone is a key female reproductive hormone that plays numerous important roles in the female reproductive system and in maintaining pregnancy. Some key functions of progesterone include:
Preparing the uterus for pregnancy. After ovulation, progesterone helps thicken the lining of the uterus to support a fertilized egg implanting. If fertilization does not happen, progesterone levels drop and this triggers menstruation.
Supporting early pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs, progesterone is essential for helping maintain the pregnancy by stimulating appropriate uterine growth, preventing contractions and muscle movement in the uterus that could risk rejecting the embryo, and more.
Preventing repeat ovulation during pregnancy. Repeat ovulation risks creating unstable hormonal changes, so progesterone prevents this by inhibiting the hormones that trigger ovulation. This provides pregnancy stability.
Supporting fetal development. Progesterone supports the growth and development of the placenta and embryo/fetus during pregnancy. This includes directing nutrients towards the developing baby.
Carrying pregnancy to term. Normal progesterone production will continue supporting pregnancy until birth. Then after delivery, progesterone levels rapidly fall, triggering milk production and restarting the menstrual cycle so repeat ovulation/pregnancy can happen again.
In summary, progesterone has critical reproductive system functions related to:
Menstrual cycle regulation
Uterine preparation
Early embryo support
Preventing unstable hormonal fluctuations
Directing nutrients to support fetal growth
Carrying pregnancy towards successful childbirth
When progesterone levels are too high or low, it can negatively impact fertility and reproduction. Some key problems include:
Irregular periods and ovulation issues from low progesterone production. This also causes thin uterine lining that struggles supporting embryo implantation.
Higher miscarriage risk from low progesterone unable to adequately support early pregnancy.
Preterm labor risk if progesterone levels drop too soon before the pregnancy reaches full term.
Maintaining adequate progesterone levels through each trimester is essential for most women to have a healthy, successful pregnancy. Tracking hormonal balance also helps identify reproductive issues to treat. So progesterone testing is an important aspect of fertility and prenatal care at Vibrance Health.