Many hormones are in the body, but some are more important for hormone replacement therapy. These include testosterone, estrogen, thyroid, and progesterone. Progesterone is a hormone that is often talked about when discussing hormone therapy. If you’re considering hormone therapy, you’ve probably heard of it.
What Is Progesterone?
Progesterone has been found to reduce the risk of uterine and colon cancers. It may also help treat other types of cancer, including ovarian, melanoma, mesothelioma, and prostate.
“Progesterone is a steroid hormone belonging to a class of hormones called progestogens. It is secreted by the corpus luteum, a temporary endocrine gland that the female body produces after ovulation during the second half of the menstrual cycle. Progesterone [also] prepares the endometrium for the potential of pregnancy after ovulation. It triggers the lining to thicken to accept a fertilized egg. It also prohibits the muscle contractions in the uterus that would cause the body to reject an egg.” – Hormone Health Network
A keyword in the clinical definition of progesterone is “temporary.” As a woman ages, her body’s ability to make progesterone decreases. After menopause, most women stop producing it altogether.
What Happens When Progesterone Levels Fall?
When the body stops producing progesterone, it can cause problems. This is because progesterone plays many important bodily roles, and some of these affect a person’s overall well-being.
Symptoms of low progesterone in women who aren’t pregnant include:
- headaches or migraines
- mood changes, including anxiety or depression
- irregularity in the menstrual cycle
Additionally, an imbalance of estrogen and progesterone may occur, resulting in symptoms such as:
- Weight gain
- Decreased libido, mood swings, and depression
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), irregular menstrual cycle, and heavy bleeding
- Breast tenderness
- fibrocystic breasts
- Fibroid tumors
- Gallbladder issues
What Makes Progesterone So Important?
One important reason to seek bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is to avoid symptoms. However, there are some significant advantages to having the proper progesterone level in your body. Natural progesterone, for example, may reduce the risk of breast cancer when compared to synthetic equivalents. Furthermore, progesterone has been related to a lower incidence of uterine and colon cancers. It may be beneficial in treating other cancers such as ovarian, melanoma, mesothelioma, and prostate cancer.
Progesterone can also help treat illnesses that impact the brain, such as stroke and brain injury, and preventing heart disease.
How Do I Get More Information?
Talk to a healthcare provider you trust if you think you have low progesterone and are experiencing symptoms. They can help you decide if bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is the right option.
Schedule A Consultation Today!
At Revitalize Health Services, we aim to empower you to achieve optimal well-being. Our evidence-based, customized bio-identical hormone therapy can significantly impact your life. Don’t hesitate to contact us and speak with one of our experts today!
