Progesterone vs Menopause
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What is progesterone and how does it work in our bodies?
Progesterone is an important hormone that is mainly produced by the ovaries after ovulation. It plays a crucial role in women's health, especially during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. This hormone belongs to the group of progestogens and is also produced in smaller amounts by the adrenal glands. Progesterone helps prepare the uterine lining for a possible pregnancy and supports the early stages of pregnancy.
Progesterone production is stimulated by luteinizing hormone (LH), which is released during ovulation. After the egg is released, the corpus luteum (yellow body) forms in the ovary. This corpus luteum produces progesterone, which in turn helps maintain a healthy menstrual cycle. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum breaks down and progesterone levels decrease, leading to the onset of menstruation.
Progesterone is broken down mainly in the liver, where it is converted into inactive substances and excreted in the urine. Healthy liver function is therefore essential for good hormone balance.
How does progesterone compare to other hormones in women?
Progesterone works closely with other hormones such as estrogen. During the first half of the menstrual cycle, estrogen is dominant, which causes the lining of the uterus to grow. After ovulation, progesterone takes over to stabilize the lining and prepare it for implantation. A good balance between estrogen and progesterone is essential for a healthy cycle. If estrogen becomes too dominant over progesterone, this can lead to symptoms such as PMS (premenstrual syndrome), weight gain, mood swings and an irregular cycle.
In addition, progesterone also plays a role in regulating cortisol, the stress hormone. With chronic stress, progesterone production can decrease, because the body prioritizes the production of cortisol.
Progesterone and the menopause
During menopause, which usually occurs around the age of 50, the ovaries stop releasing eggs. This means that the production of progesterone and estrogen decreases dramatically. This change has a significant impact on the body and is very different from the effects during the menstrual cycle and perimenopause.
Menopause vs. Menstrual Cycle: During a normal menstrual cycle, there is a distinct spike in progesterone after ovulation. In menopause, this spike is completely absent because ovulation no longer occurs. This leads to a stable low level of progesterone, which can result in symptoms such as vaginal dryness, insomnia, and joint pain.
Menopause vs. Premenopause: During perimenopause, hormone levels are unpredictable and can fluctuate widely, causing symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. In contrast, during menopause, hormone levels stabilize at low levels, often resulting in other symptoms like bone loss and an increased risk of heart disease.
How do you recognize that it is due to menopause?
Symptoms specific to menopause include:
- Complete cessation of menstruation for at least 12 months.
- Hot flashes and night sweats.
- Vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse.
- Reduced bone density, which can lead to osteoporosis.
- Changes in skin and hair, such as thinning hair or drier skin.
- Fatigue and sleep problems.
If these symptoms occur in women around the age of 45-55 and menstruation has stopped completely, it is likely that this is due to menopause.
What can LunaVital do for you during menopause?
At LunaVital I offer personal support to help you get through the transition phase as smoothly as possible. I understand how drastic these changes can be and offer practical advice and solutions that fit your situation. Think of:
- Supporting hormone balance: Together we look at your complaints and I draw up a plan with nutritional advice, exercise and natural supplements that improve your well-being.
- Relieve symptoms: I help you tackle symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep problems and vaginal dryness through natural solutions and personal guidance.
- Prevention and Education: I educate you on ways to support your bone and heart health so you can stay strong and energetic.
Whether you are just entering menopause or have been struggling with complaints for some time, I am ready to guide you towards a life in balance and with more energy.
