The Power of Progesterone in pregnancy
Progesterone plays a crucial role in supporting and maintaining pregnancy. It is a hormone produced primarily by the corpus luteum in the ovary after ovulation, and later by the placenta during pregnancy. Some key roles of progesterone in pregnancy are :
Implantation of the embryo: Progesterone helps prepare the uterus for the implantation of the fertilized egg. It promotes the thickening of the endometrial lining, creating a suitable environment for the embryo to implant and establish a connection with the maternal blood supply.
Maintenance of the uterine lining: Once pregnancy is established, progesterone continues to support the uterine lining, preventing its breakdown and ensuring a stable environment for the developing embryo. This is essential for the early stages of pregnancy.
Suppression of uterine contractions: Progesterone has a relaxant effect on the smooth muscles of the uterus, helping to prevent contractions that could potentially lead to the expulsion of the developing embryo.
Development of the placenta: As the pregnancy progresses, the placenta takes over progesterone production. Progesterone is essential for developing and maintaining the placenta, which is vital in providing nutrients and oxygen to the growing fetus.
Inhibition of the maternal immune response: Progesterone helps modulate the maternal immune system, preventing it from attacking the developing embryo, which carries a unique set of antigens from both parents.
Stimulation of mammary gland development: Progesterone, along with other hormones like estrogen, contributes to the development of the mammary glands in preparation for breastfeeding.
Prevention of menstruation: Progesterone inhibits the normal menstrual cycle during pregnancy. This is important to maintain the pregnancy and prevent uterine lining shedding, which occurs during a non-pregnant menstrual cycle.
In summary, progesterone is essential for creating and maintaining a supportive environment for the developing embryo and fetus during pregnancy. Its functions extend from preparing the uterus for implantation to sustaining the pregnancy through various stages until the placenta takes over its production later in gestation.
The reproductive process falters if these ingredients are unavailable for progesterone production.
Let’s look at two scenarios - one where stress creates the ‘pregnenolone steal’, and the other, where heavy metals block the uptake of nutrients.
