Low Progesterone
Progesterone is a steroid hormone that is produced by the ovaries during ovulation period. It’s most basic function is to provide a fertile environment for the embryo during pregnancy.
One of the primary roles of progesterone is to counter the effects of estrogen to pave the way for a healthy and successful pregnancy.
Low progesterone is the common cause for infertility and miscarriages.
Low progesterone can lead to the underdevelopment of the tissues in the uterine lining which can cause you to menstruate even if you are pregnant.
Role of Progesterone in Fetal Development
Progesterone hormones help reproduction by stimulating and increasing blood vessels and tissue mass in the uterus.
When progesterone levels are good, the uterus will safely be able to carry the fetus on progesterone alone until the end of the first trimester. After the first trimester, progesterone production is taken over by the placenta.
This is the reason why it is very important that progesterone levels are maintained during the first few weeks of pregnancy. Low progesterone during this period is sure to lead to miscarriage.
Role of Progesterone as a Contraceptive
If you want to delay pregnancy, high doses of progesterone maybe induced.
Causes of Low Progesterone
The primary cause of low progesterone is an existing dominance of estrogen in the female body.
If you have a liver dysfunctions, you are unable to expel these hormones and a result the there is an excessive build up of estrogen in the body, which eventually leads to very low progesterone levels.
Resistance to insulin is also a cause for low progesterone.
Other causes of low progesterone are:
- chronic stress,
- a diet that is rich in sugar and does not contain sufficient nutrients,
- insufficient exercise
- and intake of medications that work against the production of the hormone in the body.
Symptoms of Low Progesterone
There are a number of symptoms for low progesterone that relate to other diseases that make it difficult to diagnose. Among these symptoms the most prominent are:
- infertility,
- irregular menstrual cycle,
- vaginal dryness,
- blood cloths during menstruation,
- breast tenderness,
- and fibrocystic breasts.
Excessive weight gain and water retention can also relate to low progesterone levels. Those with gallbladder diseases,thyroid dysfunctions and magnesium deficiency are most likely to have very low progesterone. Depression and panic attacks are common reactions of patient with low progesterone.
When experiencing any of the symptoms, you are advised to get tested for low progesterone especially in cases when you are pregnant, when excessive vaginal bleeding occurs, and when the irregularity in the menstrual cycle becomes predominant.
If you feel you are exhibiting symptoms of low progesterone, take our 5-Minute Online Progesterone Levels Test to see if you have low progesterone and learn more about the next steps you should take.