The ovaries produce a hormone called progesterone in order to prepare the ovaries for pregnancy. The corpus luteum in the ovaries produces the progesterone hormone to begin with and then the placenta takes over the job of maintaining the progesterone levels in the body. The role of progesterone is to prepare the uterus lining for implantation, regulate periods, maintains a thick uterus lining for implantation, produces a nutrient rich lining for the baby, eliminate uterine contractions, creates a mucus plug in the cervix so bacteria cant enter and cause an infection, after ovulation progesterone is responsible for a rise in body temperature, and much more.

The levels of progesterone in the body start low and begin to increase with each day of pregnancy. The first trimester sees an average progesterone level of 9-47 ng/ml. Occasionally a doctor will find it necessary to test the womans progesterone levels although this is not frequently the case. Most doctors want to see a minimum of 10 ng/ml within the first few weeks of the pregnancy. Rates lower than this might signify a threatened miscarriage or a miscalculation in dates.

As you can see progesterone plays a very important role in a successful pregnancy. Few women think about their progesterone levels or even know what an important role they play. If for some reason you believe your progesterone levels are low or you think your doctor needs to check your levels then give them a call. They can talk to you about your concerns and let you know if a test is warranted or not.

Posted in Pregnancy

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