Supplements
Pregnancy is an exciting time for women. Still, it can also be a nerve-wracking experience, particularly in the early stages. With so much information, deciding which supplements to take and which to avoid can be overwhelming. One supplement women consider taking during early pregnancy is progesterone.
The ovary produces progesterone during the menstrual cycle; progesterone plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. However, the body may not have enough progesterone in some cases, which can result in complications such as a miscarriage.
Supplemental progesterone can help reduce these risks, but many women are unsure about their safety during the first trimester of pregnancy. This blog will examine progesterone supplements and their potential benefits and risks.
We’ll also answer women’s questions about progesterone supplements in early pregnancy. These questions include whether they can cause spotting, what produces progesterone in early pregnancy, and more.
What Are Progesterones?
Progesterone is a hormone naturally produced by women after ovulation. It plays a vital role in preparing the uterus for pregnancy and maintaining it throughout its duration. Progesterone levels increase during pregnancy and peak during the third trimester.
However, in some cases, the body may not produce enough progesterone necessary for a healthy pregnancy, leading to complications such as:
- Miscarriage,
- Preterm labor, or
- Low birth weight.
What Produces Progesterone In Early Pregnancy?
Progesterone is a critical hormone during early pregnancy that prepares the uterus for implantation and supports the fetus’ growth and development. The hormone is produced in large quantities by the corpus luteum. It is a temporary endocrine gland that forms after ovulation. In the early stages of pregnancy, the corpus luteum produces progesterone until the placenta develops sufficiently to take over its role.
Benefits Of Progesterone Supplements In Early Pregnancy
Here are five benefits of progesterone in early pregnancy:
- Reduces miscarriage risk
According to research, supplementing with progesterone during the first trimester can significantly reduce the risk of a miscarriage in women who have previously miscarried or had infertility. In the meta-analysis of 18 randomized controlled trials involving 3,275 women, progesterone supplements reduced miscarriage risks and recurrent pregnancy loss.
Furthermore, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends progesterone therapy for women who have experienced recurrent miscarriages.
- Prevents preterm labor
Progesterone supplements can also reduce the risk of preterm labor. Studies have shown that women at risk of preterm labor who received progesterone supplements had a significantly reduced chance of delivering before 37 weeks of pregnancy. A meta-analysis of 26 studies found that progesterone supplementation considerably reduced preterm births and miscarriages.
- Reduces congenital disability risk
Research also indicates that progesterone supplements may reduce the risk of congenital disabilities. A journal published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that women who received progesterone supplements during early pregnancy had a lower incidence of congenital disabilities.
- Enhances IVF success
Often, doctors prescribe progesterone supplements to women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Progesterone therapy enhances embryo implantation and survival, leading to a higher IVF success rate.
- Safe for use in early pregnancy
Progesterone supplements are safe in early pregnancy. Experts advise women with a history of preterm labor, recurrent miscarriage, or low progesterone levels should consider progesterone supplementation during pregnancy.
7 Progesterone Supplements In Early Pregnancy
Here are some popular progesterone supplements, along with their benefits and usage:
- Progest-Avail
This progesterone supplement comes with easy-to-swallow capsules containing 100 mg of micronized progesterone per serving. It is made from non-GMO soybeans and formulated to be bioavailable and well-absorbed by the body. Progest-Avail helps to ease PMS symptoms, support fertility, and balance hormones.
- Progesta-Care
This topical progesterone cream contains natural, bioidentical progesterone derived from wild yam. It has vitamins E and A and other nutrients that improve skin texture and tone. Progesta-Care is easy to apply and supports menstrual cycles, menopause, and general hormone balance.
- Progest-E Complex
This unique supplement contains a blend of natural progesterone, vitamin E, and other beneficial nutrients that support reproductive health and hormone balance. It is made with non-GMO soybeans and is gentle on digestion. Progest-E Complex can be taken orally and topically, depending on individual needs.
- Pregnenolone 100 mg
While not a progesterone supplement per se, pregnenolone is a hormone precursor that can convert into progesterone in the body. This supplement is made from USP-grade pregnenolone and supports healthy mood, cognitive function, and stress response. Pregnenolone 100 mg is often used with progesterone supplements to boost their effectiveness.
- Estroblock Pro Triple Strength
This supplement contains a proprietary natural ingredient blend that supports healthy estrogen metabolism and hormone balance. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that reduce symptoms of estrogen dominance, such as bloating, fatigue, and mood swings. Estroblock Pro Triple Strength can be used alone or in combination with progesterone supplements to support overall hormone health.
- ProgestePure
This progesterone capsule contains 100% pure USP-grade progesterone, which improves fertility, reduces hot flashes and night sweats, and promotes relaxation.
- Progest-Max
This progesterone tablet contains a high dose of natural micronized progesterone designed to support women with severe PMS and menopausal symptoms. It should be taken orally with food, as directed by a healthcare practitioner.
Common Questions About Progesterone Supplements In Early Pregnancy
Unlike any other mother-to-be, you might have questions regarding these vitamin supplements. Let’s explore them!
When Should You Start Taking Progesterone Supplements?
If you have a history of miscarriages, preterm labor, or other pregnancy-related complications, your doctor may recommend starting progesterone supplements as soon as possible upon confirming your pregnancy. Women undergoing fertility treatments such as IVF receive progesterone supplements until the placenta functions independently.
How much progesterone should I take?
Medical history, risk factors, and other pregnancy-related factors play a role in recommending progesterone supplements. A doctor recommends taking 200 mg to 400 mg per day, divided into two or three doses. Follow your doctor’s instructions to ensure you take the right dose and avoid any side effects for the best results.
Is there a natural alternative?
Progesterone supplements are the most common way to treat hormonal imbalances during pregnancy, but some natural alternatives are also available. These include eating foods high in progesterone, such as–
- Avocados,
- Eggs,
- Bananas, and
- Vitamin B6 supplements.
Can Progesterone Supplements Cause Spotting In Early Pregnancy?
Spotting or light bleeding, or pregnancy bleeding, is common in early pregnancy and can have several potential causes, including implantation bleeding, hormonal imbalances, and pregnancy-related complications. While progesterone supplements can cause mild side effects such as nausea, bloating, and headaches, they are unlikely to cause spotting or bleeding. If you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, contact your doctor immediately.
Remember, these progesterone supplements can cause side effects such as:
- Hot Flashes & Mood Swings,
- Excessive bleeding & cramping,
- Headaches & nausea,
- Adrenal Gland Dysfunction.
- Even Mental Health effects such as Depression!
Note: Call pain management doctors in Oklahoma for your mental health issue!
Final Thoughts–
Progesterone supplements can play a crucial role in sustaining a healthy pregnancy in its early stages. While the ovaries naturally produce the hormone during ovulation and the placenta during pregnancy, some women may have low levels. These levels may lead to complications such as miscarriage, preterm birth, etc. However, progesterone supplements can reduce this risk significantly.
Research suggests that progesterone supplementation is safe and effective and can increase the chances of pregnancy success. Therefore, women at risk of low progesterone levels or pregnancy loss should consult their healthcare provider. This step will enable them to determine if progesterone supplementation is appropriate.
Note: While progesterone supplements can benefit some women, they may not be necessary or appropriate for all. With proper diagnosis and treatment, progesterone supplements can play a vital role in the health and well-being of both mother and baby during early pregnancy.
