Human progesterone is a type of hormone found in women that is made naturally by the ovaries and the placenta. Progesterone is essential in female reproduction and pregnancy. In some cases, your levels of progesterone may be low, especially just before and during menopause. If you are experiencing low levels of progesterone, it can cause an array of effects, including depression.
Progesterone
Progesterone is important because it is vital to female reproductive health. While you are younger and in your child-bearing years, you can have fluctuations in progesterone. You may not experience bouts of depression, but your risk for miscarriage may increase if progesterone levels are low. Levels of progesterone are higher in women who are pregnant because it plays a vital role in preparing the lining of the uterus for pregnancy. You will likely experience decreased levels in progesterone as you age and enter menopause. One of the more common signs of low levels includes depression.
Depression Symptoms
If you are entering menopause or are experiencing symptoms of premenopause, the cause could be low progesterone levels. This, along with low or fluctuating levels of testosterone and estrogen, can lead to depression. Some of the more common signs of depression include changes in your weight --- including weight gain or weight loss --- loss of interest in everyday activities, detachment from family and friends, changes in your sleep, lack of concentration, lack of energy, sadness, irritability, and restlessness.
Causes
There are several causes of low levels of progesterone in the body, aside from menopause, which can also lead to depression. An overall lack of proper nutrition can lead to low progesterone levels. You should be eating healthy choices from all of the food groups including whole grains, vegetables, fruits, protein and low-fat dairy. If you have been diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome or insulin resistance you may also have lower levels of progesterone. A spike in estrogen levels can lead to lower levels of progesterone as well.
Solution
If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, you should be evaluated by your doctor. If you are at a child-bearing age or if you are older than the age of 40 you should have your hormone levels checked to rule out or confirm a hormonal imbalance. Your doctor may prescribe hormone replacement therapy to help regulate your progesterone levels. He may also treat individual medical conditions including insulin resistance and PCOS. In conjunction, an anti-depressant along with healthy eating instructions and getting regular exercise may also be recommended.
