Progesterone is one of many steroid hormones found in both males and females. The adrenal cortex, corpus luteum, which is the follicle that contains the egg during ovulation; and the placenta, during pregnancy, secrete progesterone. The primary function of progesterone in pregnant women is the preparation and maintenance of the endometrium for implanting the fertilized egg. Both men and women of varying ages can experience progesterone deficiency, and there are specific signs for which to watch.
Anovulation
Sex hormone levels decline with age. According to Donna White in her book "The Hormone Makeover," women will begin to experience progesterone deficiency in their mid-30s. By the age of 35, half of all women are progesterone deficient and will usually require hormone therapy. Anovulation is a common symptom of a progesterone deficiency, due to the high levels of estrogen that are usually countered by progesterone, according to White. Anovulation is abnormal uterine bleeding that results in a woman's inability to ovulate. This can sometimes lead to infertility. Although a woman may still experience bleeding each month, White says, there may not be a release of an egg. Women experiencing fertility issues will need to have their hormones level tested to indicate a progesterone deficiency.
Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts can develop due to an excessive amount of estrogen. A progesterone deficiency will cause high levels of estrogen, as progesterone is the counteracting hormone, according to Phyllis Balch in her book "Prescription for Herbal Healing." Ovarian cysts, Balch explains, are enlarged follicles that fail to rupture for release of the enclosed egg. Women with a progesterone deficiency who develop ovarian cysts may experience generalized aching, heaviness, back pain, abdominal pain and pain during intercourse.
Osteoporosis, Aging Skin and Fat Accumulation
Both men and women can experience progesterone deficiencies that lead to osteoporosis, aging skin and fat accumulation, according to R. Hemat in his book "Principles of Orthomolecularism." Progesterone deficiency is associated with an increased cortisone production that causes these symptoms. Hemat says this excessive production of cortisone will cause fat on the back and abdomen to significantly increase, as well as progressed aging and a lack of calcium in the bones.
References
- The University of Texas Medical Branch: Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
- "The Hormone Makeover"; Donna White; 2010
- "Prescription for Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2002
- "Principles of Orthomolecularism"; R. Hemat; 2003
