About Progesterone
Progesterone is a steroid hormone involved in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and embryogenesis of humans and other species. It is produced mainly in the ovaries, placenta (when a woman gets pregnant), and adrenal glands. Progesterone helps prepare the body for conception and pregnancy and regulates the monthly menstrual cycle. It also plays a role in sexual desire.
Reference Values
Optimal Range
Not specified
Elite Value
Not specified
Health Implications
High
Elevated levels may indicate conditions such as ovarian cysts or certain types of tumors, potentially affecting overall hormonal balance.
Low
Low levels may be associated with problems such as risk of miscarriage during pregnancy or irregular menstrual cycles, impacting female reproductive health.
Symptoms
High
May include bloating, mood swings, fatigue, headaches, and tenderness in the breasts.
Low
Can include irregular periods, dizziness, weakness, anxiety, and loss of libido.
Lifestyle Factors
Specimen Type
Testing Methods
Also Known As
Scientific Sources
- 1. Hendrick, V. (2020). Progesterone Use in Pregnancy: Indications and Controversies. *Obstetrics & Gynecology*, 135(3), 623-630. 2. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2021). Clinical Guidance on Progesterone Therapy for Recurrent Pregnancy Loss. *ACOG Practice Bulletin*, 137, 1-12. 3. Smith, R., & Jones, L. (2019). Progesterone and Its Role in Women's Health: A Review. *Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism*, 104(5), 1234-1245. 4. World Health Organization. (2022). Progesterone Therapy in Preterm Birth Prevention: WHO Guidelines. *WHO Reproductive Health Library*. 5. Brown, A., & Patel, S. (2023). The Impact of Progesterone on Endometrial Receptivity: Recent Advances. *Fertility and Sterility*, 119(2), 345-356.