What is Progesterone?

Progesterone is one of the steroid hormones and it is a precursor to so many other hormones needed in the body on a daily basis. Progesterone is vital in balancing the endocrine or hormonal system in women. It is involved in reproduction and as long as a woman is ovulating, there should be natural progesterone produced in the corpus luteum of the ovaries of menstruating women. It is also synthesized by the placenta, is found and produced to a certain extent in the adrenal glands and is stored in fat tissue. Progesterone levels rise and fall during the monthly cycle. Progesterone is produced just before ovulation and increases rapidly after ovulation, during the latter two weeks of the menstrual cycle.

Many women prefer natural progesterone products to the synthetic progesterone (progestins) typically prescribed as part of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT combines estrogen and natural progesterone to help relieve menopausal symptoms and prevent bone loss that could lead to osteoporosis. You don't need progesterone if you've had a hysterectomy and no longer have a uterus. If that is not the case, replacing estrogen alone can over stimulate the uterine lining, raising the risk of endometrial cancer.

In women the balance between natural progesterone and oestrogen is vital and progesterone is not only important for us, women. It is vital for men as well. Men need natural progesterone to make their testosterone and for the adrenal glands to make cortisone. Progesterone can help men with prostate problems; it helps to increase sperm count levels; helps men's complexions and their energy levels.

Today, modern medical research documents that progesterone may counteract bone loss, elevate low hormonal levels, and regulate the ratios of estrogen and progesterone. Wild yam is recognized by herbalists for supporting the female endocrine system by balancing hormones and strengthening the liver.

Progesterone, used in hormone replacement therapy, is an essential supplement which restores osteoblast function.

Benefits of Progesterone

Progesterone is needed for the proper function of the adrenal glands. Stress on the adrenal glands may lead to progesterone deficiency, often causing symptoms of nervous disorders, depression, irritability, fatigue, and mood swings. Progesterone is used in many of the following ways: