Progesterone is an important female sex hormone, and is essential for the proper functioning of the reproductive system and pregnancy.
It is produced by the ovaries after ovulation and its function is to make the uterus a receptive environment for the embryo, as well as to maintain its lining during pregnancy. This hormone also causes a slight increase in the breasts and prepares the mammary glands for the time when breastfeeding is needed.
In the absence or deficiency of progesterone, there will be difficulties in achieving embryo implantation, and even risks of miscarriage.
In assisted reproduction treatments, we use it to encourage embryo implantation after transfer, but also during the first weeks once pregnancy has been confirmed. In fact, in some patients it may be advisable to continue treatment with progesterone for several months of pregnancy or even until the end of pregnancy if there is a risk of spontaneous abortion or premature birth.
In assisted reproduction treatment, whether in a natural cycle or one that has required ovarian stimulation, levels above 12 ng/ml are sought to optimize the probability of achieving pregnancy. Therefore, if your levels are not within this range in the analyses, your doctor will adjust your progesterone treatment to achieve this.
As it is a natural hormone produced by the body, progesterone does not usually have side effects. The dosage depends on the circumstances of each patient. It is administered in the form of vaginal capsules (as is the case with CyclogestTM). También existen inyecciones subcutáneas (como el ProlutexTM) o intramusculares (ya en desuso, pues pueden ser dolorosas e incómodas y se requiere de atención sanitaria).