What is progesterone deficiency?

Progesterone is a gestagen that is produced by the corpus luteum in the luteal phase. A progesterone deficiency occurs, for example, due to the lack of ovulation. Progesterone deficiency is therefore physiological during menopause. Ovulation can also fail due to underlying gynecological diseases such as PCOS, stress, being underweight or various medications. If the corpus luteum is weak, ovulation occurs, but the remaining corpus luteum cannot produce enough progesterone. Progesterone deficiency can also occur if you have an underactive thyroid. Those affected who want to have children should engage in particularly close medical consultation to ensure implantation of the fertilized egg. In most cases, a progesterone deficiency is accompanied by a relative estrogen dominance because the ratio of progesterone to estrogen is shifted. Conversely, absolute estrogen dominance can cause a progesterone deficiency.

What symptoms indicate a progesterone deficiency?

The most important task of progesterone in the monthly cycle is to build and develop the lining of the uterus so that a fertilized egg can implant and survive. In addition, progesterone calms the tissue so that uterine contractions decrease, the egg is not rejected and the pregnancy is maintained. One of the most noticeable signs of progesterone deficiency is an unfulfilled desire to have children. Progesterone also has a calming effect on other organs and is considered an anti-anxiety agent. Symptoms of a progesterone deficiency can therefore include sleep disorders, difficulty concentrating or mood swings. Since progesterone deficiency is often accompanied by estrogen dominance, classic PMS symptoms can also occur.
During menopause, progesterone deficiency leads to classic symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disorders, mood swings, unwanted weight gain, dry skin and mucous membranes.