The function of progesterone in the body
Here are some of the main functions of progesterone:
Regulation of the menstrual cycle
Progesterone is an important hormone that helps regulate the menstrual cycle. During the second half of the menstrual cycle, after ovulation, the body produces increased amounts of progesterone to prepare the uterus for a possible pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels drop, leading to the uterine lining being shed in the form of menstruation.
Maintenance of pregnancy
Progesterone also helps maintain pregnancy by preparing the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg and by reducing uterine contractions that can lead to miscarriage.
Sleep and stress regulation
Progesterone and its breakdown products can affect the nervous system and have been studied in some contexts in relation to perceived fatigue and well-being. However, there is no scientific support for the use of progesterone as a medication for sleep or anxiety, and such use is not recommended. Possible effects on sleep and stress vary between individuals and are not sufficiently mapped to form the basis for treatment.
Maintenance of bone health
Progesterone has no direct regulatory effect on calcium levels or bone turnover. Bone health in women is primarily linked to estrogen, which has a central role in maintaining bone mass. Progesterone interacts with estrogen in the reproductive system, but its importance for skeletal strength and calcium balance is limited and indirect.
In summary, progesterone is an important regulator of women's hormonal health, and its functions are necessary for a normal menstrual cycle and a healthy pregnancy. Progesterone also has other important functions in the body that can affect overall health and well-being.
Find out your progesterone levels
If you want to find out your progesterone levels, you can do this through a Progesterone test test. You can read more about the effect of the marker progesterone in your body or what low and high levels can mean here Progesterone.
