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As you step into the menopause transition, you're faced with changes and experiences that are uniquely yours. The starting point to navigating this journey is understanding your hormones, specifically progesterone, among others like estrogen and testosterone, which play critical roles in the female reproductive system and our overall well-being.
Surprisingly, despite its importance, many women are unaware of progesterone's role and how it affects our hormonal health, leading to unnecessary confusion and stress during the menopause transition.
Progesterone, derived from the Latin word "pro-gesture," which means "to carry forth," is primarily produced in the ovaries after ovulation. It is an important part of regulating the menstrual cycle and thickening the lining of the uterus for implantation.
Sometimes known as the "pregnancy hormone," it’s an essential component of the female reproductive system that helps the body get ready for pregnancy and supports the growth of the foetus in the early stages, along with:
Progesterone levels decline during perimenopause, the transitional period preceding menopause, and it’s the interplay between estrogen fluctuations that gives rise to many of the most common symptoms experienced during this stage:
After menopause, when ovarian activity ceases and sex hormone levels decline, progesterone is still produced in small amounts by other tissues like the adrenal glands and fat cells. Although these hormones continue to have some effects on the body, their levels are significantly lower compared to premenopausal levels.
Even in postmenopause, progesterone, along with estrogen, continues to play a role in supporting bone, breast, and cardiovascular health, albeit less efficiently due to the overall decline in hormone levels.
In perimenopause, progesterone levels typically decline, while estrogen levels can fluctuate. Without adequate progesterone to balance estrogen, estrogen dominance can occur, where estrogen levels are relatively high compared to progesterone.
Signs of low progesterone include the following symptoms:
If there is an imbalance with too much progesterone relative to estrogen, it typically means that estrogen levels have dropped relative to progesterone.
Signs of high progesterone include the following symptoms:
While no single treatment can directly increase natural progesterone levels, there are natural approaches that may indirectly support progesterone production or balance hormones in the body.
For centuries, herbs have been studied for their potential to influence hormone levels in the body by interacting with the endocrine system to help regulate balance.
Adaptogens in particular have been well-researched for their ability to help regulate hormone levels, particularly estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," leaving us feeling more emotionally blanaced.
If you have any concerns or are experiencing symptoms that are affecting your quality of life, speak to your doctor or menopause specialist to explore treatments available to help you regain balance and feel yourself again.
Discover our range of evidence-based supplements, developed with mind and body nutrients to support your body and your needs before, during, and after this transitionary life stage.
This article has been reviewed by our expert advisory team.