Progesterone deficiency
Many women think that progesterone deficiency only comes at menopause. This is a myth. In fact, many women suffer from this even before they reach their menopausal period; some women lose progesterone as early as 35 years old.
Many people, especially women, are unaware of this because it is hardly even mentioned in books or taught in reproductive health classes. Even those in the medical field aren’t informed about this. As a result, not many women are keen on measuring progesterone levels. The only common thing known about progesterone deficiency is that at age 43 or 44, women are less likely to conceive babies because ovaries no longer produce the ideal amount of progesterone.
What you should know about progesterone
Progesterone is a very important steroid hormone that causes the changes in the endotemetrium in the latter part of a woman’s menstrual cycle. It prepares the uterus’s lining (also called “endo-metrium”) for the fertilized egg and its stages of development. It also sustains the uterus all throughout a woman’s pregnancy.
Generally, progesterone levels in a woman’s body changes depending on her menstrual cycle. Progesterone level is low at the first part of a woman’s cycle. It increases at the second part of it. Progesterone is very important in pregnancy and fertility.
It helps the endometrinum secrete fluids, protects the placenta, keeps the endometrium thick, promotes the growth of breast tissue, stops lactation until giving birth, strengthens the pelvis for giving birth, and prevents the uterus from moving or contracting.
Progesterone deficiency is hazardous to expectant mothers. A drastic change in progesterone level at the 10th to 12th week of pregnancy can lead to a miscarriage. Therefore, whether a woman is pregnant or not, knowing symptoms of progesterone deficiency is very important.
Infertility and early miscarriages are signs of lack of progesterone. As mentioned earlier, progesterone prepares the uterus’ lining for conception and it also keeps it from contracting to keep the fetus or baby protected. If a woman remains infertile or miscarries often during the early stages of pregnancy, it’s very likely that she is progesterone deficient.
Women who also lack progesterone also experience carbohydrate cravings, breasts tenderness, and irregular periods. Puffiness, bloating, water retention, and low body temperature can also be warning signs a woman should pay attention to if she suspects that she lacks progesterone. Some more serious symptoms of low progesterone are ovarian cysts and menstrual cramps.
If you feel or notice any of these signs, it’s best that you see a health care provider right away. This is so that you can have your progesterone level balanced in order to alleviate the discomforts brought about by these symptoms.