Progesterone, a female sex hormone, is vital in the maintenance of pregnancy. According to Ovulation-Calculator.com, progesterone creates a nurturing environment conducive for the implantation of the fertilized ovum. Through the action of progesterone, blood vessels grow into the endometrium, resulting in a nutrient-rich layer. According to the American Pregnancy Association, the corpus luteum, the follicle from where the egg is released, produces progesterone for about 12 to 16 days. When the egg is fertilized it continues to produce progesterone until the placenta establishes itself, and takes over progesterone production.
Miscarriage
According to the American Pregnancy Association, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy until birth. If the corpus luteum fails to produce the needed progesterone to support the pregnancy, an early pregnancy loss results. If progesterone is inadequate during the first 10 to 12 weeks of pregnancy, an early abortion and miscarriage can occur. The normal progesterone level is between 9 to 47 ng/ml in the first trimester of pregnancy, as stated by the American Pregnancy Association. JustMommies.com advises that progesterone levels as low as 10 ng/ml would be enough to suspect a possible miscarriage.
Effects on Emotion and Mood
According to ProjectAware.org, if progesterone is inadequately produced by the ovaries, it can result in a hormonal imbalance. The result would manifest as mood swings and irritability. Additionally, TestCountry.org reports that low progesterone levels can lead to anxiety, depression and memory issues. Pregnancy takes a toll on the body, so any additional negative mood, as seen with decreased progesterone, can place a pregnant woman at a very low depressive state.
Decreased Corticosteroid Production and Other Dangers
According to ProjectAware.org, a drop in progesterone levels affects the production of corticosteroids. Progesterone is the major precursor of cortisol and aldosterone and these hormones are synthesized by the adrenal glands. Thus decreased progesterone will directly result in decreased amounts of corticosteroids, which can affect how the body handles stress, as well as a weakened immune system and decreased response to inflammation. Decreased levels of corticosteroids can leave a pregnant woman susceptible to infections during pregnancy, as her body will be inadequately prepared to fight the infections. Since corticosteroids help decrease inflammation in the human body, a pregnant woman can be prone to more pain and discomfort, due to increased inflammation in joints and organs.
ProjectAware.org reports that low levels of progesterone can cause breast tenderness, as well as irregular menstrual cycles, heavy menstrual periods, endometriosis, vaginal dryness and night sweats. Conditions such as night sweats can add to the discomfort seen in pregnancy and affect sleeping patterns.
References
- TestCountry.org: Reasons For Low Levels Of Progesterone Hormone In Women
- Just Mommies: Progesterone Levels During Pregnancy
- American Pregnancy Association: Concerns Regarding Early Fetal Development
- Association of Women for the Advancement of Research and Education: About Progesterone
- Ovulation-Calculator.com: Progesterone and Fertility
