Progesterone levels in ng. What is the normal level of progesterone in women’s blood and a detailed analysis of the indicators. Taking progesterone medications

Norm of progesterone in women varies depending on age, pregnancy, day of the cycle. The hormone is responsible for the alternation of ovulation and menstruation, the possibility of conception and further gestation, birth and feeding of a child.

Progesterone is a hormone responsible for childbirth and other functions.

Functions of progesterone in a woman’s body

– the basic hormone for conceiving a child. The readiness of the uterine mucosa to accept a fertilized egg depends on its concentration. Its level is directly related to the ovulatory cycle - progesterone is produced by the corpus luteum, which matures in the second phase of menstruation. This can be determined by an increase in basal body temperature by 0.2–0.3 degrees (rectally).

Main functions:

provokes the proliferation of blood vessels in the uterine mucosa, creates conditions conducive to the attachment of the embryo after ovulation;
influences the central nervous system, preparing the body for pregnancy, childbirth, and forms the instinct of motherhood;
reduces the risk of uterine tone;
reduces blood viscosity, maintains optimal sugar levels;
maintains cervical tone, preventing spontaneous miscarriage;
promotes breast swelling and the formation of ducts necessary for lactation;
activates the sebaceous glands of the skin;
reduces the risk of autoimmune reactions, egg rejection;
promotes the conversion of lipids into energy.

The hormone progesterone is necessary not only for conception, but also for the normal course of pregnancy. A high concentration is maintained throughout the entire period of bearing a child, ensuring adequate functioning of the woman’s genital organs. Immediately before childbirth, the level drops, which starts the process of labor. Also, the concentration drops before menstruation, when conception does not occur.

Normal hormone levels for women

Normal progesterone levels are determined by age and day of the cycle, and during pregnancy - by term. The concentration of the hormone changes the intake oral contraceptives(OK), which must be taken into account when taking a blood test.

You can convert ng/ml to nmol/l by multiplying the number by 3.18.

Table “Progesterone norms by cycle day”:

Table “Progesterone norms by age”:

The hormone concentration reaches its maximum in the last phase menstrual cycle

The hormone norm during postmenopause is not higher than 3.19 nmol/l.

Table “Normal progesterone levels during pregnancy by week”:

The concentration of the hormone becomes maximum in the luteal phase - it is from the 16th to 28th day of the cycle that the analysis will be most informative.

It is recommended to take a blood test in the morning on an empty stomach. In women without signs of pregnancy, blood is taken on the 21st day of the cycle, with scanty periods - on days 15–18–21. If pregnancy is established - on any day. Deciphering the analysis takes no more than one business day. The hormone in the forms is designated as 17-OH-progesterone.

Reason for deviations from the norm

The causes of hormonal imbalance can be both pathological (inflammatory foci, tumors) and physiological (menopause, stress).

Causes of hyperprogesteronemia:

renal failure;
malfunction of the adrenal cortex;
regular bleeding;
corpus luteum cyst;
taking OCs and other progestin-based drugs;
hormonal imbalance.

Due to hormonal imbalance, progesterone may be higher than normal

The result of increased concentrations of the hormone is fatigue, weight gain for no reason, excessive sweating, high blood pressure, flatulence, breast tenderness, emotional instability and cycle disorders.

Progesterone is below normal

Causes of hypoprogesteronemia:

absence of the ovulatory phase;
increased physical activity;
body weight deficiency;
corpus luteum deficiency;
inflammatory process of the appendages;
stress.

If progesterone is normal and there is no ovulation, estrogen levels and its ratio to progesterone are examined. A decrease in the norm also means the onset of menopause in a non-pregnant woman; a deficiency also develops against the background of endometriosis, fibroids, and when taking medications for hyperprogesteronemia.

If there is a deficiency, infertility and miscarriages are diagnosed early stages, dysmenorrhea, breakthrough bleeding, premature birth, placental insufficiency or post-term pregnancy.

What to do if there is a hormone imbalance?

If the results of a blood test change, contact your gynecologist to identify the cause of the hormonal imbalance. As part of a comprehensive examination, an additional test is prescribed to determine the ratio of estrogen and progesterone.

Further therapy is selected based on the cause of hyper- or hypoprogesteronemia:

tumors and cysts are treated surgically;
if a focus of inflammation is detected, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory drugs are prescribed;
for renal failure - drugs to improve kidney function.

Utrozhestan increases hormone levels

If progesterone is very low, the following medications are prescribed:

Progesterone in its natural form. Available in the form of ampoules for injections, indications for use are dysfunction of the ovaries, absence of menstruation, threat of miscarriage in the first trimester.
– increases hormone levels, available in the form of suppositories or capsules for oral administration.
Duphaston– a synthetic analogue of the hormone, used to stabilize the menstrual cycle, eliminate PMS, in the early phase of pregnancy when there is a threat of miscarriage.
Krinon-gel. Used intravaginally in the complex treatment of infertility due to hormonal imbalance.
Used in the treatment of amenorrhea and breakthrough bleeding. Prescribed to get pregnant due to hormonal imbalance. Available in ampoules for injections, they are not used for renal and hepatic pathologies, thrombosis, tumors and nervous disorders.

Ingesta is prescribed to get pregnant when there is a hormone imbalance

Plant-based preparations containing hormone-like substances have a milder effect:

Mastodinon.
Available in drops and tablets based on iris, lily, cyclamen, and Abraham tree. Indicated to reduce the severity of PMS, problems with conception and disruptions of the menstrual cycle.

Cyclodinone.

Available in drops and tablets based on common twig, peppermint, and sorbitol. Increases fertility, reduces the severity of menopause.
An excess of the hormone is corrected using the following means: Non-steroidal anti-estrogenic drug. Used for severe menopause, estrogen-sensitive tumors, endometrial cancer, and in men for gynecomastia.
Mifepristone. Antigestagenic agent of synthetic origin. Reduces the synthesis of progesterone, increases the contractile function of the myometrium, is indicated for the threat of miscarriage in the first month, for stimulation of labor, for emergency contraception after unprotected contact and uterine leiomyoma.

Clofimene citrate.

Stimulates the production of gonadotropins. Used to stimulate ovulation as part of complex therapy for infertility, affects ovarian function, recommended for androgen deficiency, for men - for oligospermia.

It is impossible to notice an increase or decrease in the hormone based on any symptoms. A blood test is prescribed as part of IVF planning, if luteal phase deficiency is suspected in case of infertility, as well as if a woman has had 3 or more miscarriages in a row.

One of the most important “female” hormones is traditionally considered to be progesterone, a steroid hormone of the progestogen group, which has a very broad complex effect on the woman’s body. In addition to its direct effect on the female body, progesterone is an important link in the synthesis of other hormones of endogenous origin, including a number of sex hormones and corticosteroids.

Despite such a large-scale role of progesterone, modern medicine Not everyone knows about him. Its functions, the reasons for changes in levels in the body and the prerequisites for the growth of normative indicators remain not fully studied. We’ll talk about what we can say for sure regarding progesterone.

Progesterone is synthesized in the body by two organs: the corpus luteum (a temporary secretory gland that is formed during the postovulation period) and the adrenal glands. Thanks to the hormone produced by the corpus luteum, there is an increase in the secretory activity of the endometrium and an increase in vascularization - the process of formation of new blood vessels. Thanks to these processes, the inner mucous membrane of the uterus is brought into a state of readiness to receive a fertilized egg and the mobility of the uterus itself slows down. That is, the female body is preparing for pregnancy. In addition to the corpus luteum and adrenal glands, the placenta also synthesizes progesterone. This happens mainly during pregnancy. We will talk more about this stage of synthesis below.

Functions of progesterone

We have already noted that progesterone has an extremely broad effect on the female body. Let's look at its main functions in more detail:

Direction of influence	Main functions
Reproductive system	A number of doctors give progesterone another name - “pregnancy hormone”. Thanks to it, the uterus is prepared for conception. In addition, after fertilization, progesterone reduces the intensity of the female body’s immune response, which helps avoid embryo rejection. During childbirth, progesterone levels drop in female body helps to ease their course, and after childbirth, a decrease in the volume of hormone synthesis is a prerequisite for the onset of lactation.
Hormonal balance	Progesterone has a fairly serious effect on the synthesis of other hormones. We have already mentioned sex hormones and corticosteroids. In addition, progesterone imbalance can affect the activity of aldosterone, a hormone of the adrenal cortex, as well as the functioning of estrogens, in particular in breast tissue.
Leather	The functions of progesterone in this direction are a rather controversial statement, but a number of doctors accept them as an axiom. It is believed that the presence of progesterone receptors in the skin forms a close relationship between the hormone and the skin. A drop in its level can lead to an increase in the number of wrinkles, as well as a decrease in the strength and elasticity of the skin. This statement is partly proven by the fact that hormonal therapy using progesterone-containing drugs, in the vast majority of cases, has a positive effect on skin quality.
central nervous system	Progesterone is partially synthesized in the central nervous system and, according to the international classification, it is classified as an endogenous steroid. In addition, the synthesis of progesterone is a prerequisite for the production of allopregnanolone, a neurosteroid quite important for the body.
Sexual behavior	There is an opinion that progesterone, coupled with the aforementioned allopregnanolone, increases sexual desire in the female body. In addition, a number of studies conducted by Dr. Diana Fleischman have demonstrated some relationship between high levels of progesterone and a tendency to engage in homosexual relationships. But this theory did not gain acceptance in medicine.

Norms of progesterone content in the female body

Like everything related to progesterone, standard indicators of its content in the body are a concept that has not been fully studied and is quite vague. There are four tables of norms for progesterone levels in women:

according to the phases of the menstrual cycle,
by phase of the menstrual cycle for women using hormonal contraceptives,
by days of the menstrual cycle,
by trimester of pregnancy.

Let's look at them separately.

Norms of progesterone content in the female body by phase of the menstrual cycle

Norms for progesterone levels in the female body by phase of the menstrual cycle for women using hormonal contraceptives

Norms of progesterone content in the female body by day of the menstrual cycle

Norms of progesterone content in the female body by trimester of pregnancy

Looking at the numbers in the four tables, several conclusions can be drawn. Firstly, medicine recognizes very wide regulatory ranges for progesterone levels. This is due to the fact that the amount of the hormone changes in the body almost constantly and depends on many factors:

time of day,
emotional state,
physical activity,
lifestyle.

Moreover, none of these factors is pathological, and even a serious increase in progesterone levels, if several of them coincide, is not a sign of pathology.

Secondly, we clearly see a rapid increase in progesterone during pregnancy. This only confirms the statement that progesterone is the “pregnancy hormone” and that it is extremely important in a woman’s reproductive function.

And thirdly, the given figures show that the analysis for progesterone should be studied exclusively by a doctor. There can be no talk of any self-diagnosis. Even very high numbers in laboratory test results can be a consequence of just the individual characteristics of the female body.

Symptoms of high progesterone in women

An increase in the level of progesterone in the body does not have clear specific manifestations and only laboratory analysis and consultation with a specialist can definitely detect this disorder. At the same time, there are a number of symptoms that are generally believed to appear with high progesterone:

a significant amount of acne on the skin,
abundant hair on the body,
unreasonable weight gain,
general fatigue, often accompanied by stress and depression,
more frequent allergic reactions body,
fairly bright and regular headaches,
seemingly causeless changes blood pressure round trip,
breast tenderness,
problems with the menstrual cycle,
vaginal discharge with blood stains.

At the same time, we note once again: all these signs are nonspecific. It is impossible to make a diagnosis based on them alone. But the manifestation of several of them is a clear message for taking a test for progesterone in order to identify the development of a probable pathology on early stage and eliminate it without consequences.

Pathological causes of increased progesterone in women

There are only a few pathologies that are manifested by an increase in progesterone levels. The most common among them is congenital dysfunction of the adrenal cortex. This disease leads to disruption of the synthesis of many hormones by the adrenal glands. Some of them are produced in insufficient quantities, and some, including progesterone, in excess.
Almost the entire hormonal composition also increases during hydatidiform mole, a pregnancy pathology that results from the fertilization of an egg by a pair of sperm, or by defective maternal material. Against the background of hydatidiform mole, the level of progesterone is high even compared to the norms of this hormone during pregnancy. This pathology requires quite serious and timely therapy, including chemotherapy, since its development can lead to the formation of malignant neoplasms.
Another pathology that is manifested by an increase in progesterone levels is ovarian cancer. Therefore, high-quality research and qualified medical consultation are necessary for such an analysis.

Ways to reduce progesterone levels

Therapy aimed at reducing progesterone levels should only be used if the pathological nature of this manifestation is confirmed. It is mainly necessary to exclude pregnancy, since any effect on hormonal background during this period can lead to very unpleasant consequences.
Drug effects on high progesterone can be carried out with the following drugs:

A drug	Price	Description
Tamoxifen	from 280 rub.	Tamoxifen binds to estrogen receptors and interferes with the formation of female sex hormones.
Mifepristone	from 1300 rub.	Synthetic steroidal antiprogestogen drug. Its effect on progesterone production is based on blocking progesterone receptors.
Valproic acid	from 410 rub.	Derivative fatty acids. Its action is based on changing the properties of sodium channels and increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid in the brain.
Clomiphene	from 980 rub.	A non-steroidal anti-estrogen that interacts with estrogen receptors located in the ovaries and pituitary gland.

In addition to drug therapy, limiting the consumption of a number of foods will help normalize progesterone levels:

nuts,
legumes,
dairy products,
beef and poultry meat.

Moreover, the exclusion of these products is not an independent method, but is used as an addition to drug therapy.
It is also believed that mint helps lower high progesterone. Tea from this plant should be drunk up to three times a day.

Hormonal balance is very important for the female body. This is especially true for sex hormones. They stabilize emotional condition women, affect the functioning of the entire body.

One of the most necessary hormones for the fair sex is progesterone. He accepts Active participation at work reproductive system woman, and also controls the most important events of her life - conception and pregnancy.

What is progesterone for?

Progesterone is a sex hormone secreted by the corpus luteum and adrenal glands. During pregnancy, this function is also taken over by the placenta. Progesterone means “gestation” in Latin. It is also called the pregnancy hormone. This name was invented for a reason. Its role in conceiving and bearing a child is simply invaluable. Progesterone performs the following number of functions:

changes the structure of the inner wall of the uterus so that a fertilized egg can implant into it;
after pregnancy, the process of menstruation slows down;
promotes uterine enlargement along with fetal growth;
relaxes the muscles of the uterus, eliminating its ability to contract, and thereby preventing the possibility of miscarriage;
stimulates the development of mammary glands, promotes milk production;
controls the emotional state of the expectant mother, develops the maternal instinct;

In addition to pregnancy, this hormone controls other processes in the body:

prevents the formation of adrenal cysts;
reduces the likelihood of blood clots;
normalizes sugar levels;
affects fat metabolism, mineral balance;

Which should it be?

The level of progesterone in a woman’s body is constantly changing. Its concentration is influenced by several processes:

pregnancy;
phases of the menstrual cycle;
taking contraceptives.

Indicators by day of the cycle

Progesterone is usually measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/ml) or nanomoles per liter (nmol/l). More often, values are displayed in nmol/l. To convert ng/ml to nmol/l, use the formula: ng/ml * 3. 18 = nmol/l.

To understand how and why the concentration of this hormone changes during the menstrual cycle, you must first understand its phases.

The cycle begins with the follicular phase. During this period, the follicle and egg mature. On days 2-3 of this phase and up to days 11-12 of the cycle, the level of the hormone in the blood remains at the lower limit of normal and amounts to 0.31 nmol/l. The adrenal glands are responsible for its production at this stage.

On days 13-18 of the cycle, but most often on day 15, occurs ovulation- release of the egg from the follicle. All that remains is one shell, which is called the corpus luteum. It is during this period that the egg is fertilized, otherwise it dies. During ovulation, the corpus luteum begins to produce progesterone.

After ovulation comes luteal phase. It lasts until the onset of menstruation. In the second phase, namely on days 18, 19, 20, 21 of the cycle, the concentration of the pregnancy hormone increases to its maximum.

Its normal level in women during this period can reach up to 56 ng/ml. This happens because these 4 days are considered potential for the egg to be fertilized, pass through the tubes and implant into the endometrium of the uterus. These days she is preparing to receive the egg: its mucous layer increases in size and becomes looser. In the absence of fertilization, it is rejected and comes out in the form of menstruation.

If fertilization does not occur, then after these 4 days, that is, on days 22-23, the level of progesterone decreases to normal concentration - 0.3 nmol/l. If fertilization has occurred, its blood levels will increase.

Therefore, the most appropriate time to take a progesterone test would be the 22nd day of the cycle, but it is better to repeat the result on days 24-25. Days may vary depending on the length of the cycle.

According to the age

Throughout life, the level of progesterone in a woman’s blood changes significantly. Its first sharp decline is observed in adolescence, 2 years after the first menstruation. The level of the hormone then changes cyclically depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle. The final decrease in progesterone occurs during menopause - its amount is 0.64 nmol/l.

But the origins of its decline begin to form earlier – already from the age of 38. During this period, aging processes begin in a woman’s body, and ovarian function decreases.

At the age of 45-55, women enter premenopause. The main process at this time is an imbalance of sex hormones. The thing is that not only progesterone regulates the functioning of the reproductive system. If progesterone helps fix the egg in the uterus, then its formation is influenced by another group of hormones - estrogens. They, in turn, are under the control of pituitary hormones: follicle-stimulating and luteinizing.

It is the balance of all these hormones that ensures the normal functioning of the reproductive system of the female body. During premenopause, this balance is disrupted. Hormonal imbalance during this period leads to disruptions in the menstrual cycle. It also causes the growth of neoplasms, which include fibroids. Often the treatment method in such situations is surgery.

Changes occur not only in the reproductive organs. The nervous system also suffers. Often, hormonal imbalances lead to depression, unstable mood and even severe mental disorders.

During menopause, the level of sex hormones decreases so much that eggs stop maturing, and therefore ovulation does not occur. This leads to a complete cessation of menstrual flow, and, consequently, to a stop in the production of progesterone.

The period after the cessation of menstruation is called postmenopause. And it comes by the age of 55-60. But more often this concept is combined with the term menopause or menopause.

During menopause, a woman is accompanied by the following symptoms:

“hot flashes”: sudden fever, increased sweating;
decreased memory, attention;
irritability;
mood lability;
sleep disturbance;
fragility of bones, frequent fractures.

During menopause, the risk of cancer and precancerous diseases of the ovaries and uterus also increases. To normalize hormonal levels and avoid such consequences, a woman is prescribed hormone replacement therapy. But for this it is necessary to take an analysis to determine the level of hormones in the blood. Having received the results and checking them with the table of normative indicators, the doctor prescribes individual treatment.

Some women cannot adequately perceive the age-related changes that occur to them during this period of their lives. They believe that their femininity and attractiveness are being lost. This leads to serious disturbances in the psycho-emotional sphere, sometimes even dementia manifests itself.

During pregnancy

Progesterone reaches its highest concentration in the blood during pregnancy. If fertilization has occurred and the egg has implanted in the wall of the uterus, then the level of the “pregnancy hormone” after the peak 4 days after ovulation will not decrease, but increase. Already in the early stages of pregnancy, its indicators increase significantly, but it reaches its highest level in the third trimester:

A few days before delivery, the amount of progesterone drops sharply to 2.3 nmol/l. This is necessary so that the muscle layer of the uterus begins to contract, causing contractions and then pushing.

But still, the level of the hormone remains at fairly high levels. This is necessary for the mammary glands to begin producing milk.

If a woman is unable to conceive naturally, she can resort to in vitro fertilization (IVF). Since this is a non-physiological method, the body cannot fully prepare for it on its own. That's why in this case, progesterone levels have to be regulated artificially.

To successfully transfer embryos, a woman must first be prepared. To do this, from the 16th day of the menstrual cycle, she begins to take progesterone in the form of medications, having previously passed a test for its content in the blood. These drugs will prepare the inner layer of the uterus for it to accept an egg.

From the third day of taking progesterone, embryos can be transferred. Before the procedure, another test for hormone levels is required. If the indicator is sufficient, a refill is performed; if it is low, the procedure is canceled. After embryo transfer, it is recommended to check the level of “pregnancy hormone” every 2 days to make sure that it is sufficient. If the procedure is successful, the amount of progesterone will increase.

When managing a pregnancy accomplished by IVF, the abbreviation DPP is used. It determines the day after embryo transfer. For example, 5DPP or 6DPP. Along with other indicators, on the days of progesterone donation, its values are also recorded. At the same time, the doctor, based on the indicators, regulates the dose and quantity of drugs.

And they continue to take medications almost the entire first trimester to avoid miscarriage. In the future, the placenta will take over the function of producing the hormone.

It is also important to monitor the content of estradiol in the blood of a pregnant woman. Their joint work with progesterone will ensure the proper course of pregnancy.

Reasons for decrease or increase

There are often cases when the amount of progesterone in the blood is reduced. The reasons for this may be:

inflammatory processes of the ovaries;
adrenal gland damage, thyroid disease;
insufficient function of the corpus luteum;
nervous tension;
malnutrition.

Manifestations of a lack of “pregnancy hormone”, first of all, are PMS - premenstrual syndrome.

Many believe that this is normal when during this period the stomach or head begins to hurt severely, nausea and loss of strength and activity appear. This may actually be due to possible low progesterone levels that need to be corrected.

Other signs include:

increased sweating;
poor sleep;
overweight bodies;
swelling;
convulsive spasms;
disruptions of the menstrual cycle;
myoma; hyperplasia;
gas formation.

If the level of this substance is insufficient, a woman cannot become pregnant. Even if fertilization has occurred, the egg cannot penetrate the uterine wall because it is not developed enough.

If a woman does become pregnant, her risk of miscarriage increases.

Less commonly, it happens that the level of progesterone in the blood is elevated. In addition to pregnancy, this can result from:

corpus luteum cysts;
disruption of the adrenal glands;
absence of menstruation;
tumors in the ovaries;
taking medications that increase progesterone levels;
hydatidiform mole – pathological condition, in which the chorionic villi mutate, turning into bubbles. It grows uncontrollably, which threatens the development of a cancerous tumor.

Excess hormone manifests itself as:

excess body weight;
increased body hair;
mood changes;
instability of blood pressure;
pustular skin diseases;
rapid fatigue.

How to normalize

Restoring progesterone levels depends on the manifestations of its imbalance and the indicators of the test results. If the violations are superficial, use natural remedies:

Set up your power supply system. Eat healthy food, eat more vegetables and fruits. Dairy products must be included in the diet meat products and fish. Drink more water. Do not forget about foods that stimulate the production of this hormone - nuts, seeds, avocados, olives.
It is very important to maintain emotional calm. To do this, try to eliminate the cause of your worries. Use auto-training or relaxing gymnastics.
Take part in active sports. The main thing is regularity of training and positive emotions.
Give up bad habits.
Keep your weight under control.
Get enough sleep and avoid overwork.
Refrain from large quantity coffee. Try not to drink very strong tea.

In a more serious situation, you will have to resort to medication. Here you should be very careful and not self-medicate. Medicines should be prescribed by a doctor, taking into account individual characteristics. With improper therapy, the development of insufficient heart function and tumor-like diseases may develop. Before prescribing hormone therapy, you are required to take a blood test for progesterone levels, and only then consult a doctor.

Drugs that are used to establish normal progesterone levels are used in the following forms:

tablets or capsules. The most commonly used are Duphaston and Utrozhestan. Moreover, the capsules can be inserted into the vagina. In this case, there is a local effect without interfering with metabolism;
gels;
candles;
injections. If there is a deficiency of the hormone, an oil solution of progesterone of varying concentrations is used. It is administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously.

The choice of drug depends on the indications, the patient’s age and hormone levels. When prescribing the drug, schemes are used. It is discontinued gradually, gradually reducing the dose.

These drugs are contraindicated in:

bleeding of unknown etiology;
tumors of the female reproductive system;
liver diseases;
tendency to form blood clots.

The hormone progesterone in the body of a pregnant woman during the first three months is produced by a special gland called the corpus luteum. After 13–16 weeks from the date of conception, this function is transferred to the placenta. Poor hormone production can cause early pregnancy termination.

For a pregnant woman, progesterone is one of the key hormones that helps her successfully bear a baby and her baby to develop properly. It is produced by the corpus luteum - a gland that is formed after the maturation and release of the egg. Next, fertilization of the egg occurs. The corpus luteum immediately ceases to exist if fertilization does not occur. If pregnancy has occurred, the gland continues to actively produce progesterone.

About how it affects the female body:

Prepares the pelvic muscles and bones for separation during pushing and pushing the baby into the light.
Affects breast growth, prepares it for lactation, provokes the production of colostrum during pregnancy. Colostrum may begin to be released at 30 weeks.
Removes increased tone uterus, which can lead to spontaneous abortion. Maintains pregnancy.
Helps the uterus grow, prepares it for the enlargement of the fetus.
When planning has an effect on internal cavity female organ, preparing a place for the attachment of a fertilized egg.
Regulates metabolic processes in the mother's body.
Affects the endocrine system.
Has a beneficial effect on the central nervous system, improving sleep and appetite.
Activates the protective forces of a woman's immune system.
Affects the production of subcutaneous fat.

For the fetus, progesterone is also an important element:

Promotes the development of the child's main organs and tissues.
Thanks to progesterone, the female body does not perceive the embryo as a foreign body and does not reject it. Otherwise, the defense system would push out the egg as a foreign body - a foreign protein.
Takes part in the production of steroid hormones in the baby.

What is the norm?

With each week of pregnancy, the level of progesterone in a woman’s body increases. The concentration of this hormone is shown to the doctor clinical picture fetal development and placenta condition. The presence of progesterone depends on several factors; its amount may vary, but the average values are the same for all women expecting a child. The first and second weeks are characterized minimum level hormone – 12–18 ng/ml, and on last weeks the amount of progesterone can reach up to 172 ng-ml.

In later stages, a low level of this hormone may indicate a post-term pregnancy.

Table normal level progesterone by week of pregnancy

Gestational age in weeks	Progesterone level readings in ng/ml, (normal)	Progesterone level readings in nmol/l, (normal)
1-2 week	12-18,2	38,15-57,8
5-6	18,6-21,7	59,1-69
7-8	20,3-23,5	64,8-75
9-10	23-27,6	73,1-88,1
11-12	29-34,5	92,1-110
13-14	30,2-40	96-127,2
15-16	39-55,7	124-177,1
17-18	34,5-59,5	111-189
19-20	32,8-59,1	121,7-187,8
21-22	44,2-69,2	146-220
23-24	59,3-77,6	188,9-247,1
25-26	62-87,3	197,2-277,8
27-28	79-107,2	251,2-340,9
29-30	85-102,4	270,2-326
31-32	101,5-126,6	323,1-402,8
33-34	105,7-119,9	336,3-381,4
35-36	101,2-136,3	321,7-433,1
37-38	112-147,2	356,1-468,1
39-40 week	132,6-172	421-546

In case of significant deviations, we should talk about a disruption in the functioning of some systems of the expectant mother.

Reasons for changes in progesterone concentration

Short-term changes in the level of the hormone progesterone in the blood may be associated with taking certain medications. Before donating blood to the laboratory for the content of this hormone, it is necessary to inform the laboratory assistant about the therapy. He will make a note on the card.

The reasons may be:

hormone therapy;
renal failure;
disturbance of placental development;
chronic adrenal hyperplasia.

Abnormalities are detected by a routine blood test. Its peculiarity is that it is taken on an empty stomach early in the morning. A progesterone test is done for women who have crossed the threshold of the second trimester. Then the placenta begins to supply the body with the hormone.

If a pregnant woman takes hormonal medications, an emergency test for progesterone levels can be performed 3-4 days after discontinuation. If possible, wait three weeks. All stressful and emotional factors are excluded one day before the analysis. Nicotine should not enter the body of a pregnant woman at all, but if she smokes, then she needs to wait two hours without a cigarette before going to the laboratory.

What are the dangers of low or high progesterone?

The consequences of a deficiency or excess of the hormone create a risk of dangerous conditions for the mother and child. Progesterone deficiency can cause:

early miscarriage;
noticeable delay in the development of organs and vital systems of the fetus;
“frozen” pregnancy, when the embryo stops developing;
ectopic pregnancy, when the egg is implanted in the tube or in the cervix, and not in its cavity. Such a pregnancy leads to a rupture of the tube, the embryo does not survive, and there is a risk to the woman’s life;
disruption of the functioning of the placenta as an organ that supplies the fetus with oxygen and nutrients;
the appearance of toxicosis in the early stages with dehydration;
development of acute gestosis in later stages in the form of edema;
infertility in the future.

Consequences of excess hormone:

a certain malfunction in the functioning of the placenta;
kidney dysfunction;
hyperplasia;
the likelihood of having twins increases;
systematic use of hormonal drugs is required.

If progesterone production is disrupted, the local gynecologist prescribes hormonal medications that contain the required hormone. Treatment is determined purely individually, the doctor focuses on the condition, test results and medical history of the pregnant woman. A course of injections or suppositories is prescribed. Suppositories are placed vaginally.

In case of emergency, the doctor decides to urgently hospitalize the woman. Doctors monitor the level of the hormone in the blood and carry out a set of measures necessary to normalize its concentration.

Progesterone injections are injections of a drug that has an oily structure, a weak odor, and a color ranging from yellow to green. Injections are given intramuscularly. The drug is instantly absorbed into the blood. The product begins to act 40–50 minutes after the injection. The maximum concentration of the “pregnancy hormone” occurs 5–6 hours after the injection. It leaves the body with urine.

The injections are absolutely painless, there is no need to be afraid of them. The preparation must first be heated to room temperature. A small, dense nodule or bruise may form at the injection site. Progesterone should be injected with caution in women who are predisposed to the formation of blood clots, who suffer from bronchial asthma or other diseases of the pulmonary system, who are ill diabetes mellitus. It is also necessary to coordinate injections with a doctor for a woman in a position with impaired functioning of the cardiovascular system.

In the last weeks of gestation, such therapy is contraindicated, since progesterone is designed to prevent miscarriage. Progesterone injections are also not used during lactation.

Even after discharge until the end of pregnancy, the woman monitors progesterone levels through constant testing.

Each woman is able to independently minimize the risk of deviation of progesterone levels from the specified parameters. To do this you need to follow the recommendations:

Pregnancy should be long-awaited, its planning consists of a medical examination, vitamin complexes, giving up bad habits, normalizing nutrition.
Taking any medications during pregnancy must be approved by your doctor.
Eliminate stress factors and emotional surges.

By observing these simple rules, the expectant mother will take care of herself and her child.

/ 5. Rating: 0

We are sorry that the information was not useful to you!

We will try to improve!

Tell us how we can improve this information?

Natural procreation would be impossible if the female body did not produce the hormone progesterone. An increase or decrease in its level significantly affects a woman’s health, her ability to bear and give birth to a child. What kind of hormone is this, what are its functions in the body and why progesterone levels change throughout life, we will find out further.

What is progesterone and its functions

Progesterone is a steroid sex hormone produced by the corpus luteum of the ovaries, the adrenal cortex and the placenta (during pregnancy). He is responsible for successful conception, childbearing and breastfeeding. Progesterone is also an agonist of some receptors and stimulates liver enzymes.

But still the main role hormone - maintaining pregnancy. Thanks to it, processes occur in the endometrium of the uterus that prepare it for possible conception, and subsequently prepare the woman’s body for childbirth and breastfeeding(if pregnancy has occurred).

The “pregnancy hormone” (as progesterone is often called) performs the following functions related to fetal development:

changes the condition of the uterine mucosa to successfully attach a fertilized egg to the overgrown endometrium;
reduces the body’s immune response, which prevents it from “rejecting” the embryo (protects against miscarriage);
reduces the contractility of the uterine muscles, which also allows you to maintain pregnancy;
responsible for stretching the uterus in accordance with the size of the fetus;
forms an additional fat layer on the woman’s abdomen, protecting the uterus and the child developing in it from mechanical influences;
participates in preparing the pelvic bones of a woman in labor for childbirth;
maintains a stable level of blood viscosity and blood sugar levels in the expectant mother;
prepares the tissues and ducts of the mammary glands for lactation.

A drop in progesterone levels in a pregnant woman’s body leads to childbirth and becomes a signal to start breastfeeding.

The hormone is also responsible for the normal menstrual cycle (alternating ovulation and menstruation) and stops it for the period of gestation if the egg has been fertilized.

The biological role of progesterone in the body is not limited to reproductive functions. It is responsible for a number of several more important processes:

for sexual attraction;
for normal brain functioning (as a neurosteroid);
for secreting skin secretions and maintaining youthful skin.

The maternal instinct is also formed under the influence of this particular hormone.

What affects progesterone levels

Progesterone levels are unstable at different periods of life. It depends on the woman’s age and the phase of the menstrual cycle. During pregnancy, hormone levels in the blood increase hundreds of times.

In the follicular phase of the monthly cycle (before ovulation), the hormone is produced only by the adrenal cortex - its level in the blood is minimal. But after ovulation, a corpus luteum forms in the ovary, which begins to produce progesterone - the level of the hormone increases sharply and remains so until the onset of menstruation. Its production depends on luteinizing hormone, which stimulates ovulation.

If pregnancy occurs, then the production of the hormone continues to increase and reaches a peak in the third trimester (from 17-18 weeks it is produced by the placenta).

The synthesis of progesterone is affected by the work of the female reproductive system, in particular the corpus luteum, a gland that reappears every menstrual cycle. Infections, stress, medication, and even strenuous physical activity can disrupt hormone production. But it often happens that its production can be disrupted for more serious reasons - disruptions in the functioning of the endocrine system.

The consequences of increased or insufficient progesterone synthesis are dangerous: menstrual irregularities, difficulties conceiving a child, and problems during pregnancy. Therefore, if you suspect a change in the concentration of the hormone in the body, it is necessary to take a blood test and identify the causes of pathologies.

What is the normal level of progesterone?

The hormone does not have a stable indicator, since its level depends on many factors. The so-called reference values (lower and upper limits) for each phase of the menstrual cycle are accepted, within which deviations in its concentration in the blood are considered normal.

For non-pregnant women, the following indicators are considered normal:

0.3 – 0.22 nmol/l – in the first (follicular) phase of the cycle (1-14 days of the cycle);
0.5 – 9.5 nmol/l – during the period of ovulation (14-16 days);
7 – 56.6 nmol/l – in the luteal phase (16-30 days of the cycle).

During menopause, the hormone content in the blood of women is at the level of 0.64 nmol/l.

It happens that the test result for progesterone is given in other units of measurement (in ng/ml). To convert units of measurement you need to use the formulas:

ng/ml ∙ 3.18 = progesterone level nmol/l;
nmol/l ∙ 0.314 = ng/ml.

It should be taken into account that laboratories use different sets of reagents for blood tests and different methods for determining progesterone levels. Therefore, hormone concentrations in the same woman on the same day of the cycle may vary in different laboratories. Comparisons of test results should always be based on data from the same laboratory.

Progesterone during pregnancy. Hormone norm by week

For pregnant women, other reference values have been determined. Progesterone concentration varies depending on the period:

1 – 13 weeks (I trimester) – 9-468 nmol/l;
14 – 26 weeks (II trimester) – 71.5-303 nmol/l;
27 – 40 weeks (III trimester) – 88.7-771.5 nmol/l.

If the test results differ greatly from those given, do not immediately sound the alarm. It is possible that other methods and reagents are used in this medical institution, so the values do not fall within the established range.

You need to be guided by the standards of the laboratory in which the analysis was taken (as a rule, each institution has its own). The individual characteristics of the woman are also taken into account, as well as the reception medicines which are used expectant mother at the time of the analysis.

Causes of increased progesterone. How to downgrade

If a blood test for progesterone levels shows an increased value, there may be several reasons for this. If a non-pregnant woman does not take medications that affect the concentration of the hormone, this most often occurs due to endocrine disorders or gynecological diseases:

congenital dysfunction of the adrenal cortex (adrenogenital syndrome);
tumors or hyperplasia of the adrenal glands;
ovarian neoplasms (cysts, cystomas);
choriocarcenomas (uterine cancer);
hyperprolactinemia (dysfunctional milk secretion and cessation of menstruation).

It happens that the level of the hormone increases with renal failure, uterine bleeding or cirrhosis of the liver.

The level of progesterone during pregnancy increases with:

hydatidiform mole (a pathology associated with the defective function of egg fertilization and characterized by the growth of chorionic villi in the form of bubbles);
delayed maturation of the placenta;
fetoplacental insufficiency (a complex of morphofunctional disorders of the fetus and placenta);
multiple pregnancy.

Requires a comprehensive examination to identify the causes. After diagnosis, the doctor will prescribe the necessary treatment tactics to normalize the hormone level. Along with medications(Clomiphene, Mifepreston, Tamoxifen), it is recommended to change your lifestyle (give up bad habits, establish a work-rest routine) and pay attention to nutrition (reduce the proportion of protein foods and give up foods high in saturated fat).

You can also use folk recipes to reduce hormone levels and use the following infusions:

red rowan (1 tablespoon of dry berries, pour a glass of boiling water and consume 1/3 glass three times a day);
Borovaya uterus (1 tbsp. crushed stems per 1 tbsp. water), drink half a glass in the morning and evening;
red brush and cloves (for 1.2 liters of boiling water, take 6 tsp of carnation flowers and 1 tablespoon of red brush, bring to a boil, let cool and take 1/3 cup 3 times a day before meals).

Using Recipes traditional medicine with increased progesterone, it is possible only after consulting a specialist.

Causes of low progesterone. How to level up

A decrease in progesterone concentration in non-pregnant women is observed with the following pathologies:

dysfunction of the adrenal cortex;
dysfunction of the corpus luteum (insufficiency of the second (luteal) phase);
chronic inflammatory diseases genitals;
reception medicines, lowering the level of the hormone in the blood;
gynecological diseases (fibroids, endometriosis);
strict diets and poor unbalanced nutrition.

A woman's decreased levels of the hormone may indicate the onset of menopause.

During pregnancy, the level of progesterone decreases when:

too rapid resorption of the corpus luteum (normally it should dissolve only by 16-17 weeks);
placental insufficiency;
severe stress affecting the functioning of the reproductive system;
post-term (more than 41 weeks).

Prescribing medications (Utrozhestan, Inzhesta, Crinon gel, Duphaston) helps normalize the production of progesterone. It is also recommended to increase the proportion of foods containing proteins and cholesterol in the diet. They do not contain the hormone, but help stimulate its production in the body. Of no small importance is the normalization of the psycho-emotional state of pregnant women, increasing the number of hours of sleep and rest.

From folk remedies Infusions of plants help well:

Pour 1 liter of boiling water over plantain seeds (1 tbsp) and mantle grass (2 tbsp), leave for 1 hour and take half a glass 3 times a day;
wild yam and raspberry leaves (1 tablespoon of each plant in 0.5 liters of water, boil and drink instead of tea).

Independent use of medications or folk remedies to increase progesterone synthesis without consulting a doctor is unacceptable.

Consequences of abnormal progesterone levels

An increase or decrease in the concentration of progesterone in the blood in both pregnant and non-pregnant women can have serious consequences.

During pregnancy, a reduced level of the hormone often leads to miscarriage - spontaneous abortion or miscarriage. It can also threaten intrauterine growth retardation and premature birth.

An increased level of the hormone is dangerous due to delayed maturation of the placenta and disruption of the functioning of the fetoplacental complex, which affects the physical and mental health of the unborn child.

In non-pregnant women, abnormal progesterone levels affect the regularity and length of the menstrual cycle.

An increase in hormone concentration threatens the following conditions:

secondary amenorrhea (lack of menstruation);
dysfunctional uterine bleeding with an extended second phase of the cycle:
(increased body hair);
the appearance of pimples and acne that are difficult to treat;
swelling.

Often, a violation of progesterone production is associated with abnormal synthesis of other sex hormones, so the signs and consequences of this can be varied, and other symptoms are added.

A decrease in hormone levels leads to:

to the absence of ovulation and acyclic uterine bleeding;
to primary or secondary amenorrhea;
to prolonged painful menstruation (sometimes with a rise in temperature);
to severe premenstrual syndrome;
to difficulties with conception (due to insufficiency of the luteal phase and underdevelopment of the corpus luteum);
infertility.

If you suspect a violation of the production of progesterone in the body, you must take an analysis of its level (necessarily over time) and, in case of abnormal results, undergo the treatment prescribed by your doctor.

Tests for progesterone levels and indications for them

Currently, to diagnose endocrine pathologies, laboratories conduct tests on the level of free progesterone and the level of the hormone 17OH progesterone in the blood. These are two different hormones (despite the similar name) and they are produced by different glands:

the hormone 17OH progesterone is synthesized by the adrenal cortex;
free progesterone - by the corpus luteum of the ovary or placenta (in pregnant women).

Both hormones affect the normal functioning of the female reproductive system, therefore, to fully diagnose the body in case of problems with conception or menstrual irregularities, you need to take a test for both hormones. To assess the progress of pregnancy and to diagnose its pathologies, women are usually prescribed a blood test only for the level of free progesterone.

Indications for prescribing a progesterone test are:

menstrual irregularities;
suspected ectopic pregnancy;
risk of miscarriage;
determination of ovulation when planning pregnancy;
diagnosis of infertility;
absence of menstruation in non-pregnant women of childbearing age;
disruption of the activity of the corpus luteum;
control over the condition of the placenta during pregnancy;
ovarian cyst or tumor detected on ultrasound;
adrenal tumors;
assessment of the effectiveness of treatment with progesterone drugs;
with congenital pathologies of the adrenal glands.

A progesterone test is not mandatory and is not usually performed as part of routine testing for pregnant women unless the pregnancy is progressing normally or the woman has not had more than two previous miscarriages or missed pregnancies.

At 40-42 weeks, doctors can prescribe a woman a progesterone test in order to differentiate between post-term and prolonged pregnancy.

If the level of progesterone in the blood is below the norm for the third trimester, this will indicate postmaturity and the need for urgent labor induction or caesarean section to minimize negative consequences for fetal health.

If the level of progesterone in the blood at 41-42 weeks is within the normal range for the third trimester, then there is a prolonged pregnancy. In this case, you can calmly wait for the natural onset of labor.

How to take a progesterone test correctly (preparation, what day of the cycle to take)

Diagnosis of diseases will be correct if the progesterone test is performed correctly. To ensure this, several rules must be taken into account and followed.

Blood testing for progesterone levels should only be done on an empty stomach. A 14-hour fast is recommended before taking the test. In extreme cases, the period without water can be 8 hours. During this period, you can only drink water. Juices, tea and other drinks are excluded.
The best time to take the test is in the morning (from 8.00 to 10.00). At this time, the concentration of the hormone in the blood is at its maximum level. At other times, there may be a slight deviation of the analysis parameters from the norm. If the test is taken several times, it must be taken at the same time.
2-3 days before the test, try not to take any medications (except for vital ones). You must inform the laboratory assistant and doctor about taking any medications.
The day before blood sampling, you should avoid heavy physical activity, do not be nervous and do not drink alcohol, strong coffee or tea.
12 hours (or at least 2-3 hours before the test) stop smoking.
Immediately before donating blood, it is advisable to rest and relax for half an hour indoors medical institution(clinics, laboratories).

Women should donate blood for progesterone on certain days of the menstrual cycle:

on days 1-3 – if a cyst or tumor of the ovary is suspected or when diagnosing the functioning of the adrenal glands;

on days 6-9 after ovulation (on days 19-22 with a standard cycle length of 28 days) - if it is necessary to evaluate the functioning of the corpus luteum, find out the causes of dysfunctional uterine bleeding, difficulty conceiving or;

any day - during pregnancy.

Determining the exact date of ovulation is of great importance for correctly interpreting the results of a progesterone test. To determine these days in case of an irregular cycle, it is necessary to measure basal body temperature (on ovulatory days it is 37-37.4 0 C), do an ultrasound or use a pharmacy test.

Analysis of hormone levels should always be carried out over time. This is the only way to accurately diagnose a particular disease or pathology during pregnancy.

Blood tests for progesterone levels can be taken in private laboratories on a commercial basis or in public health institutions that have laboratories that perform such testing. In government institutions, a hormone test can be taken with a doctor’s referral free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis.