It is no secret that the reproductive function of the female body is possible due to the activity of certain hormonal substances. Any hormonal disruptions can affect not only the well-being of a person, but also the work of his basic organ systems. Therefore, many women are interested in the question of what are the symptoms of progesterone deficiency.
It is generally accepted that progesterone is a sex hormone produced exclusively by the female body. In fact, in men, this substance also forms, but only in much smaller quantities. Progesterone is secreted by the ovaries, adrenal glands, and also the corpus luteum, which remains in place of the bursting follicle.
What is progesterone?
This biologically active substance in medicine is called the hormone of pregnancy. Indeed, its main function is to prepare the woman’s body for fertilization and pregnancy.
Progesterone deficiency in women: symptoms
In fact, the manifestations of hormone deficiency in the fair sex are very diverse. Since the normal functioning of the reproductive system depends on its level, then, accordingly, the deficiency affects primarily the body's ability to fertilize. Of course, quite often, such hormonal disruptions are the cause of infertility.
As you know, hormonal imbalances affect the general well-being. Sudden mood swings, increased irritability are symptoms of a lack of progesterone.
Of course, there is a violation of the normal menstrual cycle. In particular, the symptoms of progesterone deficiency become most pronounced with the onset of menstruation. Many patients notice swelling of the abdomen and tenderness of the chest immediately before the onset of menstruation. In some cases, in just a few days, a woman can gain up to four kilograms of weight, which is explained by the appearance of edema in certain phases of the menstrual cycle.
Progesterone deficiency in pregnancy: symptoms
As already mentioned, a normal level of progesterone is extremely important for a successful pregnancy. Immediately after the egg leaves the follicle, a temporary gland called the corpus luteum forms in its place. It is in the first few weeks of pregnancy that it maintains a normal balance of hormones.
In turn, progesterone prepares the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg. In addition, it blocks muscle contractions, thereby preventing embryo rejection. The corpus luteum regulates the functioning of the reproductive system until the placenta takes over this function. A sharp failure of the hormonal background can lead to an abortion.
In fact, the symptoms of progesterone deficiency are not always so pronounced. But in any case, only a doctor can make a final diagnosis and only after receiving the test results. As a rule, blood sampling to determine the amount of progesterone is carried out in the second half of the menstrual cycle.
If progesterone deficiency occurred during pregnancy, then its level is maintained with the help of special drugs. In this case, the absence of treatment, and even the slightest delay in its implementation, can lead to spontaneous abortion.