Most of us are aware of the fact that we have to take progesterone with estrogen in order to protect our uterus and that unopposed estrogen therapy can put us at risk for endometrial hyperplasia or cancer. But what do we really know about progesterone? Even if we do not have a uterus and considering Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) we may want to still consider using progesterone.
Progesterone plays a major role in women's physical and emotional well-being. Progesterone is a steroid hormone produced primarily in the gonads and adrenal glands. During the second half of our cycle (the luteal phase) the corpus luteum, which develops from the ruptured ovarian follicle, secretes progesterone. This increase in progesterone helps to get the uterus ready for potential pregnancy. If no pregnancy occurs, progesterone will decrease, causing you to have a period. If pregnancy does occur, progesterone will continue to be secreted by the corpus luteum in early pregnancy, followed by the placenta later in pregnancy. However, progesterone does much more than play a role in pregnancy.
Progesterone plays a role in our metabolism, body temperature, bone density, cognition and memory, immune response and overall mood.
Progesterone has an effect on our neurotransmitters as well. It decreases glutamate which is an excitatory neurotransmitter, and it increases GABA a calming neurotransmitter. this can directly affect our moods and plays a role in anxiety or better yet helps to decrease anxiety when in balance. This is one of the causes for Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and the thought behind those suffering from Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). This is due to the sudden withdrawn of progesterone in the luteal phase causing mood swings, depression, anxiety, appetite changes and disruption in sleep. We also see this in the postpartum period. Since there is a decrease in progesterone after pregnancy. This may be a contributing factor to Post Partum Depression.
Progesterone is the major counterbalance to estrogen. When estrogen levels become high relative to progesterone levels, an imbalance known as estrogen dominance can occurs, leading to symptoms like heavy bleeding, breast tenderness, and painful periods.
The hormone changes occurring during perimenopause that can potentially contribute to mood disturbances include higher and more variable levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), variability in estradiol, and low progesterone levels. Up to 68% of women develop depression during this time.
There are ways to help boost our progesterone naturally. Considering a low-glycemic diet rich in antioxidants and healthy fats can help to support progesterone production. Vitamin B6, Magnesium, Zinc.
Supplements like chaste berry, can help to support progesterone levels.
There are no good studies to support the use of topical progesterone when using it for HRT. The only studies support the use of oral progesterone. So, if you are using progesterone with your estrogen and are menopausal/postmenopausal, you likely need to use oral progesterone. BUT if you are still having periods and using progesterone the topical therapy is an acceptable option. Consider testing hormones to see where levels are prior to therapy as it does help your provider and you determine the best plan of care.
Comments