Let me let you in on a little secret: progesterone might just be the most underrated hormone in your body. Seriously. If hormones had a popularity contest, estrogen would be the prom queen while progesterone is over in the corner, quietly being the MVP. And personally, I think progesterone is pure magic! Not the kind that gets you an owl-delivered letter from Hogwarts (unfortunately), but it’s pretty darn close.
We tend to think of progesterone only in the context of pregnancy and childbirth, but this hormone has a whole résumé of benefits beyond that. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of hormones—ready to tackle everything from mood swings to brain health, sleep problems to weight management, and yes, even enhancing your sex drive. In short, progesterone is like the best friend who just gets you and is always there to lend a hand when life feels a little out of balance.
The Many Talents of Progesterone
Here’s the thing: progesterone doesn’t just take a vacation after you’re done with the baby-making years. Nope. It’s still clocking in and doing the work long after menopause hits. But for some reason, it just doesn’t get the love it deserves. Maybe it’s because estrogen has always hogged the spotlight with all the talk about hot flashes and bone health, but progesterone? She’s working quietly behind the scenes, doing the heavy lifting.
In perimenopause and menopause, progesterone continues to shine, helping with:
Sleep: Ever find yourself lying awake at 3 a.m., unable to fall back asleep? Progesterone can help with that. It has calming effects that make it easier to relax and get the restorative sleep your body craves.
Mood: It’s no secret that mood swings can hit hard during menopause, but progesterone helps to balance things out. It can improve your overall sense of well-being, acting like a gentle mood stabilizer.
Brain Health: Progesterone has neuroprotective properties, meaning it can help with memory and cognitive function. It’s kind of like a brain booster, keeping you sharp and focused.
Weight Management: Struggling with weight gain, especially around the middle? Progesterone plays a role in regulating insulin sensitivity and fat storage, helping you maintain a healthy weight.
Sex Drive: That’s right, progesterone can also enhance your libido. It supports healthy blood flow and promotes a sense of relaxation that can make intimacy more enjoyable.
Why Isn’t Progesterone Getting Its Due?
It’s a sad reality that many doctors don’t recognize the full range of benefits that progesterone brings to the table, especially in women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. For years, the focus has been on progesterone’s role in pregnancy—protecting the uterine lining, preventing miscarriage. But guess what? Progesterone doesn’t just pack up its bags after that job is done. It continues to support your body in so many other ways well into your golden years.
I get it—there’s a lot of talk about estrogen replacement therapies, but progesterone? Not so much. But the truth is, it’s essential for everything from regulating blood pressure and supporting thyroid function to maintaining the health of your skin, hair, nails, libido, and bones. Seriously, is there anything this hormone can’t do?
How Can You Support Your Progesterone Levels?
Unfortunately, as we get older, progesterone levels naturally decline—usually starting in our mid-30s. This decline can lead to a host of symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and even weight gain. But don’t worry, there are ways to support and balance your progesterone levels naturally:
Eat a Healthy Diet:
A diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats, and fiber can support hormone health. Think leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins. These foods promote overall balance and support hormone production.
Manage Stress:
Cortisol (the stress hormone) and progesterone are in competition. When stress is high, progesterone production can take a back seat. So, take a deep breath, practice mindfulness, and find ways to reduce stress.
Consider Supplementation:
Talk to your healthcare provider about bioidentical progesterone, which mimics your body’s natural hormone. This can be especially helpful for women in perimenopause or menopause.
Get Good Sleep:
Since progesterone supports sleep, and sleep supports hormone balance, it’s a bit of a chicken-and-egg situation. Prioritize rest, and you’ll be helping your progesterone levels naturally.
Owning Your Hormonal Health
Here’s the deal: You deserve to feel vibrant, balanced, and empowered in your own body. And progesterone? She’s got your back. It’s time to give this magical hormone the attention and respect it deserves. When you tune into your body and listen to what it needs—whether that’s better sleep, a little mood boost, or even a stronger libido—progesterone is likely part of the equation.
So, let’s stop overlooking the incredible power of this hormone. Embrace it, support it, and let it work its magic. Your body will thank you for it.
References
Monteleone, P., Mascagni, G., Giannini, A., Genazzani, A. R., & Simoncini, T. (2018). Symptoms of menopause—global prevalence, physiology and implications. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 14(4), 199-215. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrendo.2017.180
Rubinow, D. R., & Schmidt, P. J. (2019). Androgens, brain, and behavior. American Journal of Psychiatry, 176(2), 126-137. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.2018.18020183
