As A Functional Medicine Practitioner Who Works With Hormones Every Day, I Understand The Critical Role That Progesterone Plays In Maintaining Overall Health, Particularly For Women.
Progesterone Is Essential For Regulating Menstrual Cycles, Supporting Pregnancy, And Balancing Other Hormones. Learn More About What It Is, What Else It Supports, And Get Tangible & Practical Tips For Keeping Healthy Progesterone Levels Below:
What Is Progesterone?
Progesterone is an endogenous steroid hormone that is commonly produced by the adrenal cortex as well as the gonads, which consist of the ovaries and the testes. In women, progesterone is also secreted by the ovarian corpus luteum during the first ten weeks of pregnancy, followed by the placenta in the later phase of pregnancy. The conversion of progesterone generation from the corpus luteum to the placenta generally occurs after week ten, usually closer to weeks 15-18. The molecule progesterone is a derivative of cholesterol and has numerous functions in the human body, especially within the reproductive system.
Key Functions Of Progesterone:
Regulating the Menstrual Cycle:
Progesterone helps prepare the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) for the possibility of pregnancy after ovulation. It thickens the endometrium, making it a hospitable environment for a fertilized egg to implant and grow.
Supporting Pregnancy:
If pregnancy occurs, progesterone continues to maintain the endometrium, preventing menstruation and supporting the early stages of pregnancy. It helps sustain the uterine lining and reduces the immune response to allow the pregnancy to proceed.
Balancing Estrogen:
Progesterone works in conjunction with estrogen to regulate the menstrual cycle and maintain hormonal balance. It counteracts many of the proliferative effects of estrogen, such as the thickening of the uterine lining.
Breast Development:
Progesterone, in conjunction with estrogen, promotes the development of mammary glands in the breasts, which is crucial for breastfeeding.
Neuroprotective Effects:
Progesterone has calming and neuroprotective effects on the brain. It can help improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote better sleep by increasing the production of the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid).
Bone Health:
Progesterone supports bone health by promoting the formation of new bone tissue, which is important for maintaining bone density, especially in postmenopausal women.
How Progesterone Supports Other Hormones:
Estrogen Balance:
Progesterone helps balance estrogen levels in the body. It counteracts the effects of estrogen dominance, which can lead to symptoms like weight gain, mood swings, and heavy menstrual bleeding. By balancing estrogen, progesterone helps maintain a harmonious hormonal environment.
Thyroid Function:
Progesterone supports thyroid hormone production and sensitivity. It helps the body utilize thyroid hormones more effectively, which is crucial for metabolism, energy levels, and overall hormonal balance.
Insulin Sensitivity:
Progesterone enhances insulin sensitivity, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. This is particularly beneficial for women with PCOS or insulin resistance, as it can improve overall metabolic health. Support glucose levels with this supplement bundle.
Adrenal Health:
Progesterone plays a role in supporting adrenal health by acting as a precursor to cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone. This ensures that the adrenal glands have enough raw material to produce cortisol when needed, without becoming overburdened. Support your adrenals with this supplement bundle.
Androgen Regulation:
Progesterone helps regulate the production of androgens (male hormones) such as testosterone. This balance is crucial for preventing symptoms like acne, hair loss, and excessive hair growth, which can occur when androgen levels are too high. Support balanced androgen levels with this supplement.
Pregnancy Maintenance:
Progesterone is essential for maintaining pregnancy. It supports the growth of the uterine lining, provides a nurturing environment for the developing embryo, and prevents the immune system from attacking the baby. Support both your body and baby’s body with this complete prenatal multivitamin.
Interesting Facts About Progesterone:
Nature's Calming Hormone:
Progesterone has a calming effect on the brain and is often referred to as the "feel-good" hormone. It helps improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote a sense of well-being.
Sleep Aid:
Progesterone promotes better sleep by stimulating the production of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on the brain. This makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Thermogenic Effect:
Progesterone increases body temperature slightly during the second half of the menstrual cycle (the luteal phase). This can be used as an indicator of ovulation and is the basis for basal body temperature charting.
Skin Health:
Progesterone helps maintain skin elasticity and hydration, making it an important hormone for skin health. It can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, contributing to a youthful appearance.
Bone Density:
Progesterone supports bone health by promoting the formation of new bone tissue. This is especially important for women as they age and enter menopause, a time when bone density can decrease significantly.
Here Are Some Practical Tips To Help You Maintain Healthy Progesterone Levels Naturally:
1. Incorporate Ovasitol In Your Supplement Routine
Ovasitol is a supplement that combines myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol, two nutrients that are particularly beneficial for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). These compounds help improve insulin sensitivity, which can positively influence hormonal balance, including progesterone levels. Incorporating Ovasitol into your daily routine can support your body's natural hormonal rhythms. Shop Ovasitol here.
2. Maintain Low Stress Levels
Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your hormones, including progesterone. When you're stressed, your body produces cortisol, a stress hormone that can interfere with progesterone production. Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help lower cortisol levels and support healthier progesterone levels.
3. Use The PCOS Doc’s Signature Oil Roller
Essential oils can be an extremely underestimated, yet powerful tool in supporting hormonal health. My signature fertility roller blend combines pure, 3rd-party tested, therapeutic, and high-quality essential oils that are known for their hormone-balancing properties. Apply this blend to your pulse points, lower abdomen, neck, check, spine as needed for an invigorating experience and to support your body's natural hormone production. Shop the signature oil roller here.
4. Take Nutrients That Support The Corpus Luteum
The corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine structure involved in progesterone production. Supporting its health is crucial for maintaining optimal progesterone levels. Key nutrients that support the corpus luteum include whole food Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Zinc. Ensuring your diet includes these nutrients can help support progesterone production.
5. Whole Food Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for the health of the corpus luteum and overall hormone production. Whole food sources of Vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens, provide a natural and effective way to boost your intake. Unlike synthetic supplements, whole food Vitamin C includes bioflavonoids and other compounds that enhance absorption and efficacy.
6. Methylated & Bio-Available Forms Of Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 plays a significant role in hormone regulation and is particularly important for progesterone production. It helps to support the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which is crucial for maintaining pregnancy and overall hormonal balance. My prenatal multivitamin contains an optimal dose of Vitamin B6 to support your hormonal health. The best news is this can be taken as an everyday multivitamin whether you’re trying to conceive or not. Learn more about it’s benefits and shop the prenatal here.
Maintaining healthy progesterone levels is essential for women's health, and it can be achieved through a combination of targeted supplements, stress management, and proper nutrition. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can support your body's natural hormonal balance and promote overall well-being. As always, consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.