From the FDA Drug Label
What is progesterone capsules Progesterone capsules contain the female hormone called progesterone. What is progesterone capsules used for? Treatment of Menstrual Irregularities Progesterone capsules are used for the treatment of secondary amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods in women who have previously had a menstrual period) due to a decrease in progesterone When you do not produce enough progesterone, menstrual irregularities can occur.
The role of progesterone in the menstrual cycle is to regulate menstrual irregularities. Progesterone is necessary for a normal menstrual cycle, and a decrease in progesterone can lead to menstrual irregularities, such as secondary amenorrhea. Progesterone capsules may be prescribed to provide the necessary progesterone and treat menstrual irregularities 1.
Key points:
- Progesterone is a female hormone that plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle.
- A decrease in progesterone can lead to menstrual irregularities.
- Progesterone capsules are used to treat menstrual irregularities, such as secondary amenorrhea.
From the Research
Progesterone plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle by preparing and maintaining the uterine lining for potential pregnancy. After ovulation occurs in the first half of the cycle, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone during the luteal phase 2. This hormone causes the endometrium to thicken and develop secretory glands rich in glycogen, creating an optimal environment for embryo implantation. Progesterone also decreases the contractility of the uterine smooth muscle, inhibits the maturation of new follicles, and reduces the frequency of GnRH pulses from the hypothalamus. If pregnancy doesn't occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, progesterone levels fall dramatically, and this withdrawal triggers menstruation as the endometrial lining sheds.
Some of the key effects of progesterone in the menstrual cycle include:
- Preparing the uterine lining for potential pregnancy
- Decreasing the contractility of the uterine smooth muscle
- Inhibiting the maturation of new follicles
- Reducing the frequency of GnRH pulses from the hypothalamus
- Contributing to other cycle-related changes, such as a slight rise in basal body temperature after ovulation, thickening of cervical mucus, and some of the premenstrual symptoms women may experience 3.
The balance between estrogen and progesterone throughout the cycle is essential for normal reproductive function. Studies have shown that progesterone supplementation can improve pregnancy rates in women undergoing fertility treatment, particularly in those with low luteal phase progesterone levels 4. However, the optimal dosage and route of administration of progesterone are still being researched, with some studies suggesting that vaginal progesterone may be more effective than oral progesterone 5.
Overall, progesterone is a critical hormone in the menstrual cycle, and its effects on the uterine lining and reproductive function are essential for preparing the body for potential pregnancy.