Progesterone: When Should You Use It?

March 14, 2025
Progesterone: When Should You Use It?

Why Is Progesterone Important?

Progesterone plays a key role in pregnancy, ensuring the uterus is prepared for implantation and supporting early fetal development. It thickens the uterine lining, allowing a fertilized egg to attach securely. Without enough progesterone, maintaining pregnancy becomes difficult.

During the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, the ovaries release progesterone to get the uterus ready. As pregnancy progresses, the placenta takes over hormone production, ensuring continuous support for fetal growth.

Key Functions of Progesterone

✔️ Prepares the Uterus – Thickens the endometrial lining to support embryo implantation.
✔️ Prevents Uterine Contractions – Helps relax the uterus, reducing the risk of miscarriage.
✔️ Supports the Immune System – Aids in preventing the mother’s body from rejecting the embryo.


How Does Progesterone Change During Pregnancy?

Throughout pregnancy, progesterone levels shift to maintain a stable environment for the baby.

📌 First Trimester – The corpus luteum in the ovary produces progesterone to sustain early pregnancy.
📌 Second Trimester and Beyond – The placenta takes over, producing progesterone to maintain stability.
📌 Fertility Treatments – IVF and other reproductive procedures can lower natural progesterone levels, making supplementation necessary.

Because of its essential role, many doctors recommend progesterone supplements to improve pregnancy success, especially for those undergoing IVF or IUI.


Progesterone in Fertility Treatments

Why Is Progesterone Needed in IVF and IUI?

Doctors often prescribe progesterone during assisted reproduction to stabilize the uterine lining and support implantation. This hormone is crucial because:

✔️ IVF and IUI can reduce natural progesterone levels.
✔️ Maintaining steady hormone levels increases pregnancy success rates.

The Role of Progesterone in Egg Donation, Embryo Donation, and Frozen Embryo Transfers

For those undergoing egg donation, embryo donation, or frozen embryo transfer (FET), doctors often suppress natural progesterone production to better prepare the uterus.

✔️ Supplementation replaces the body’s progesterone to maintain pregnancy.
✔️ Regular hormone monitoring ensures the best chances of implantation.


How Is Progesterone Taken?

Progesterone is available in different forms, each offering specific benefits:

✔️ Vaginal Tablets or Gel – Directly absorbed by the uterus, making it a preferred option.
✔️ Oral Capsules – A simple alternative for those who experience discomfort with vaginal methods.
✔️ Subcutaneous Injections – Ideal for patients with absorption issues or allergies to other forms.

A fertility doctor will recommend the best option based on your medical history and treatment plan.


Get Expert Guidance on Progesterone and Fertility

At Sakalli IVF, we understand how important progesterone is in fertility treatments and pregnancy success. Our team offers personalized care to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

📞 Contact us today to explore your fertility options and receive expert guidance every step of the way!

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