Progesterone is a hormone that plays an important role in the reproductive system and overall well-being. Hormones are the chemical messengers that tell our bodies how to function properly, and an imbalance can seriously affect health and overall quality of life. That means it’s worth looking closely at progesterone, its role in the body, and the importance of maintaining balance.

What Is Progesterone?

Progesterone is a critical reproductive hormone that plays a vital role in regulating the menstrual cycle, preparing the body for implantation, and maintaining a healthy pregnancy. The ovaries produce progesterone during the luteal phase, which is the second half of the menstrual cycle and occurs after ovulation. During this phase, progesterone levels increase while estrogen levels decrease as the body prepares for possible implantation. If fertilization does not occur, the drop in progesterone signals the body that it is time for the period to start.

The Role of Progesterone in the Body

Progesterone is really a multifaceted hormone, controlling many essential functions of the body. Some of the functions of progesterone in your body include:

• Thickening the lining of the uterus to allow fertilized egg attachment
• Regulating the menstrual cycle and bleeding
• Supporting pregnancy and lactation
• Improving mood
• Supporting thyroid function

Symptoms of Progesterone Imbalance

Low progesterone levels may result in too much estrogen, which can lead to symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, decreased sex drive, and gallbladder issues. If you’re trying to get pregnant, low progesterone levels could make it difficult to maintain a pregnancy. In addition, low progesterone levels could also cause difficulty sleeping, mood swings, irritability, as well as depression.

It’s important to consult your healthcare provider if you need to check your progesterone levels. Hormones are a complex system in your body, and having too little or too much of one hormone can cause a chain reaction in the rest of your hormones. When it comes to progesterone, it’s balanced by estrogen.

What If My Progesterone Level Is Elevated?

Determining if your progesterone level is elevated can be a little bit tricky, as it naturally rises with your menstrual cycle and pregnancy. However, there are some symptoms that may be indicative of elevated levels, such as:

• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Difficulty sleeping
• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Breast tenderness
• Nausea or vomiting
•  Vaginal discharge

Typically, elevated progesterone is considered normal due to the monthly natural fluctuation. However, if your levels remain elevated, this could indicate an underlying condition. Your healthcare provider may need to perform these tests on certain days of the month or even retest often to ensure an accurate result and help you determine if there is an imbalance.

What Factors Contribute to Progesterone Imbalance?

There are many factors that can contribute to an imbalance of progesterone. It is important to remember that estrogen regulates progesterone, so conditions that affect estrogen levels may also impact progesterone. Other contributors may include:

• Menopause
• Thyroid disease
• Cortisol levels (stress hormone)
• Obesity
• Diet and nutrition

How to Support Progesterone Balance Naturally

Fortunately, there are many ways to support progesterone balance naturally! Some of these include:

Dietary Changes And Supplements

Diet can have a major impact on hormones. A great place to start is to find foods that are rich in zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B6, such as spinach, nuts, fish, and lean red meat. Also include natural supplements such as chaste berries and evening primrose oil.

Stress Management Techniques

Making time for yourself to relax and breathe is so important for managing stress.  Try mindfulness meditation, which simply forces you to pay attention to YOU and where your mind is. When you feel your mind wandering off, take a deep breath and return to the now. Practicing yoga and deep breathing exercises is also a great way to focus on yourself and relax your mind and body.

Lifestyle Adjustments

In addition to dietary changes and stress management techniques, implementing a regular exercise routine can be a great way to regulate hormones. This can be as simple as walking on a regular basis or lifting weights in the gym.  You should also make sure that you are getting enough sleep. Sleep deprivation is a huge factor in our health, particularly stress.

We have a lot more great information on naturally balancing progesterone and other hormones, so stay tuned!

When Should You Seek Medical Advice and Hormone Testing?

If you are experiencing the symptoms listed above or any other symptoms you believe may be related to hormone imbalance, discussing this with your healthcare provider is important. There is no ‘at-home’ test to determine hormone levels. Lab work is necessary to determine an imbalance and what could be causing it.

What Medical Interventions for Progesterone Imbalance Are Available?

There are options available medically to regain hormonal balance. Based on your medical history, your medical provider can determine which option will best suit you and your needs. Some of the options available include:

• Hormone replacement therapy
• Pharmaceutical options (contraceptives or other medications)
• Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy

What is the difference between compounded and non-compounded Progesterone?

While your healthcare provider will discuss all the options regarding treatment for progesterone imbalance, a common question is about the difference between compounded and non-compounded progesterone. Compounded and non-compounded progesterone refers to two different forms of the hormone progesterone, which is commonly used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and in the treatment of various gynecological conditions.

Non-compounded Progesterone

Non-compounded progesterone refers to FDA-approved progesterone products that are commercially available from pharmaceutical companies. These products are available in various forms, such as pills, creams, gels, injections, and vaginal suppositories. Non-compounded progesterone products have undergone extensive testing for safety and efficacy as per regulatory requirements. They are standardized in terms of dosage, quality, and purity, ensuring consistent treatment.

Compounded Progesterone

Compounded progesterone refers to formulations of progesterone that are customized by compounding pharmacies based on a prescription from a healthcare provider. These formulations may involve altering the dosage, concentration, or form of progesterone to meet the specific needs of individual patients. Compounded progesterone may contain additional ingredients or be formulated in a manner not available in commercially manufactured products. The quality and safety standards of compounded progesterone products can vary depending on the compounding pharmacy and the regulations governing compounding practices in a particular region. Compounded progesterone may be preferred in cases where commercially available products are unsuitable due to allergies, sensitivities, or specific dosage requirements.

To sum up, the primary distinction between compounded and non-compounded progesterone is in how they are produced, regulated, and customized. Non-compounded progesterone is manufactured by pharmaceutical companies, undergoes regulatory oversight, and is available in standardized forms. In contrast, compounded progesterone is tailored for individual prescriptions by compounding pharmacies and may offer more flexibility in dosage and formulation.

Where Can I Get Tested For Hormonal Imbalance Near Me?

An imbalance in hormones can leave us on an emotional roller coaster. Due to their natural fluctuation, various symptoms, particularly those of progesterone, are often mistaken as normal. It is important that you find a medical professional with whom you can discuss what YOUR normal feels like so that they can help you establish what is causing this imbalance.

At Advanced Medical Spas, we take an individualized approach, as no two patients are alike. We understand that everyone experiences everything differently.  One of our wellness evaluations, with labwork, will help us determine exactly how to restore your hormonal balance.  Whether it be hormone replacement therapy or nutritional supplements, our goal is to help you feel like your best self!