Progesterone, also known as luteal hormone, is a natural progestogen secreted by the corpus luteum of the ovary, which has a significant morphological impact on the endometrium stimulated by estrogen in the body. During pregnancy, it plays a role in stabilizing the uterus and promoting embryonic development. It also maintains normal menstrual cycles during the menstrual cycle. Under the influence of estrogen, the ovary can ovulate. Therefore, progesterone is a very important hormone for the ovaries and is essential for maintaining pregnancy.
So, what role does progesterone play?
1. Immune Protection:
The increase in progesterone after a woman becomes pregnant effectively prevents the embryo from being rejected by the mother, thereby promoting the progression of pregnancy. Research has found that only cells in animals injected with progesterone do not exhibit mutual rejection issues, indicating that progesterone can effectively inhibit immune responses. If there is insufficient progesterone in the early stages of pregnancy, the embryo may be rejected by the mother, leading to miscarriage.
2. Embryo Implantation:
During ovulation, under the influence of progesterone, the endometrium transitions from the proliferative phase to the secretory phase, thereby making the endometrium receptive to embryo implantation. In other words, stable progesterone levels can effectively promote embryo implantation.
3. Inhibition of Uterine Contractions:
Progesterone can effectively alter the permeability of uterine cells to ions, thereby reducing the sensitivity of the uterus to a certain extent and effectively inhibiting uterine contractions, providing a safe and stable environment for embryonic development.
4. Promotion of Embryonic Development:
Progesterone is also crucial for embryonic development. Only when progesterone levels are maintained above a certain level can the healthy development of the fetus be ensured. If progesterone levels are too low, it may lead to miscarriage in the early stages of pregnancy.
Additionally, what should you do if low progesterone is detected?
1. If the low progesterone level is due to a primary deficiency in the body, exogenous progesterone preparations can be used for pregnancy maintenance, which can be effective to some extent. However, one should not rely entirely on progesterone, as its use does not guarantee the maintenance of pregnancy.
2. Dietary adjustments can also help increase progesterone levels. Consuming foods rich in soy isoflavones and natural vitamin E can help the body produce more progesterone. For example, eating fruits like kiwis, strawberries, or grapefruits can help women supplement their body with vitamin C and vitamin E, which can help bring progesterone levels back to normal.
3. Minimize unnecessary stress and avoid frequent exercise and sexual activity.
Moreover, low progesterone is a hurdle that most pregnant women encounter in the early stages of pregnancy. While low progesterone carries a risk of miscarriage, not all miscarriages are caused by low progesterone. If the fetus itself is not of good quality, it may not be viable. Therefore, if low progesterone is detected during the first check-up, do not be overly concerned. Follow the doctor's advice and take steps to maintain the pregnancy, and generally, there should be no issues. Expectant mothers should try to stay relaxed.
Finally, fresh fruits can also help supplement progesterone levels. Fruits like kiwis, strawberries, or grapefruits can aid in supplementing the body with vitamin C and vitamin E, helping to bring progesterone levels back to normal.
