Progesterone is a steroid hormone produced by the corpus luteum of the ovaries. It is essential for the normal progression of pregnancy.
- Progesterone is synthesized in the ovaries and, in small amounts, in the adrenal glands, under the influence of luteinizing hormone (LH).
- During the first and early second trimester of pregnancy, progesterone is primarily produced by the maternal body.
- From the late second trimester onward, progesterone production shifts to the placenta.
Functions of Progesterone
- Prepares the endometrium for the implantation of a fertilized egg.
- Supports pregnancy after implantation.
- During pregnancy, progesterone levels rise continuously, doubling by weeks 7–8 and gradually increasing until weeks 37–38.
- Outside of pregnancy, progesterone levels begin to rise in the preovulatory phase, peak in the mid-luteal phase, and return to baseline at the end of the cycle.
- The analysis is performed on a blood sample drawn from a vein.
- The test should be taken after 8–14 hours of fasting.
- Before the test, avoid emotional and physical stress, as well as alcohol consumption.
- If no specific timing is prescribed, women with menstrual cycles should take the test on days 22–23 of the cycle.
- Investigation of menstrual cycle disorders and various forms of amenorrhea
- Infertility assessment
- Dysfunctional uterine bleeding
- Evaluation of placental function in the second trimester of pregnancy
Causes of Increased Progesterone Levels
- Dysfunctional uterine bleeding
- Certain types of secondary amenorrhea
- Fetoplacental dysfunction
- Delayed fetal maturation
- Impaired progesterone metabolism in kidney failure
Medications That Increase Progesterone Levels:
- Clomiphene
- Corticotropin
- Ketoconazole
- Mifepristone
- Valproic acid
- Tamoxifen
Causes of Decreased Progesterone Levels
- Chronic inflammation of the internal reproductive organs
- Anovulatory dysfunctional uterine bleeding
- Various forms of primary and secondary amenorrhea
- Placental underdevelopment
- Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR)
Medications That Decrease Progesterone Levels:
- Ampicillin
- Carbamazepine
- Cyproterone
- Danazol
- Epistan
- Estriol
- Pravastatin