Hormonal Imbalance and Miscarriage: How Does Progesterone Affect Pregnancy?

Role of Progesterone Hormone During Pregnancy

Progesterone is found in the female sex hormone which helps in the uterus's lining and the fertilized egg's implantation. Progesterone hormone during pregnancy helps to prepare the uterus to receive newly fertilized egg during early pregnancy. Sometimes the inadequate secretion of progesterone hormone during pregnancy causes miscarriage. Therefore, supplementing these women with medication to prevent them from recurrent miscarriage.

According to the statistics of NLM 10% - 15% of pregnancies end in miscarriage within that 1% - 2% of couples are suffering from recurrent miscarriages which means more than three spontaneous miscarriages. This loss can lead to emotional challenges, including anxiety and depression. Women with previous pregnancy loss or early bleeding are at a higher risk, and progesterone supplementation often focuses on these cases to help prevent miscarriage.

Uses of Progesterone During the First Trimester

During early pregnancy, doctors may recommend 200 mg progesterone hormone during first trimester to support and maintain a healthy pregnancy. By doing so, it assists in stabilizing the uterine lining, creating a favourable environment for the embryo to implant and grow.

For women with a history of miscarriage or those experiencing symptoms like bleeding in early pregnancy, 200 mg progesterone during the first trimester can be beneficial. The extra progesterone supports the body in reducing risks associated with low hormone levels, which can sometimes lead to pregnancy complications or miscarriage. This approach helps provide an added layer of security during the crucial early weeks when estrogen and progesterone hormone levels in pregnancy play significant roles in sustaining a healthy pregnancy.

Estrogen and Progesterone Levels in Pregnancy

Early pregnancy progesterone from the corpus luteum supports the embryo’s implantation by preparing the uterus with essential immunological and hormonal changes. In early pregnancy, the corpus luteum remains vital for progesterone production until around 7-9 weeks when the placenta assumes this role. Known as the "luteal-placental shift," this transition means that any early loss of the corpus luteum which can lead to miscarriage and need supplementation to avoid the miscarriage.

In the later trimesters, progesterone helps maintain a calm uterine environment, reducing immune responses that might lead to preterm labor. However, the benefit of progesterone supplementation in lowering miscarriage remains significant.

Estrogen plays a vital role throughout pregnancy, supporting a range of functions that contribute to both maternal health and fetal development. As the pregnancy progresses, estrogen helps the uterus expand and stretch, accommodating the growing fetus and increasing blood flow to ensure a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients. Additionally, estrogen is crucial for the development of the fetus’s major organs, including the lungs, liver, and kidneys, laying the foundation for the baby’s overall growth.

Overall, estrogen is indispensable to a healthy pregnancy, as it supports everything from uterine and fetal development to preparing the body for childbirth and breastfeeding.

Protecting Early Pregnancy with Progesterone

The hormonal changes during pregnancy are unique and profound, significantly influencing various aspects of a woman’s body and emotions. The rapid increases in estrogen and progesterone levels can impact mood, often resulting in heightened emotions and mood swings.

Understanding the roles and effects of pregnancy hormones is essential for expectant mothers. These hormones act as silent architects, guiding the health and development of both mother and baby. By recognizing these hormonal shifts, women can identify the physical and emotional changes that come with pregnancy more effectively. Ultimately, this awareness fosters a healthier, more informed, and positive pregnancy experience.