Progesterone is a hormone secreted by the ovaries in the second two weeks of the menstrual cycle, also called the luteal phase. Progesterone is also ingested in birth-control pills abd menopausal hormone-replacement therapy, and sometimes is used to induce the menstrual period. The natural effect of progesterone is to stabilize the lining of the uterus. When a woman produces too little progesterone in the body, there are side effect that can affect her health and fertility.
Hot Flashes
According to a study done and reported at the National Cancer Institute, a single injection of a progesterone-like drug was better able to control hot flashes in postmenopausal women than daily treatment with the antidepressant venlafaxine. The study was published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology in February 2006 and demonstrated that progesterone administration had a significantly positive effect on controlling hot flashes in women who either had achieved menopause naturally or via breast cancer treatment.
Anovulation
According to Dr. Frederick Jelovseck at Women's Health Resource, the effects of too little progesterone in the body will result in anovulation, irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding, or result in a menstrual period without losing the lining of the uterus. Both anovulation and the changes to the lining of the uterus, or endometrium, will result in infertility for the woman.
Miscarriage
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, progesterone is necessary for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Low levels can result in miscarriages, especially early in the pregnancy. After fertilization, progesterone is made by a small cyst on the ovary called the corpus luteum. After approximately week 10, the placenta will begin producing enough progesterone to support the pregnancy. Low levels of progesterone may cause early miscarriages from in adequate production from the corpus luteum.
Vaginal Changes
Low levels of progesterone will also impact vaginal changes. Women can experience low sex drive, vaginal dryness and painful intercourse, all of which can affect fertility. The hormone progesterone can be low because of high levels of stress, poor nutrition or lack of exercise. Certain medications will also interfere with the ability of the body to produce enough progesterone.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a hormonal imbalance that causes irregular periods, unwanted hair growth and acne. According to GirlsHealth.gov, polycystic ovarian syndrome often begins during the teen years and can be mild or severe. Doctors have found that women who suffer from this condition also have low levels of progesterone that contribute to the symptoms they experience. Although no one knows how this condition develops, doctors do understand that these symptoms are the result of imbalances in hormones in both the brain and the ovaries.
