What is progesterone, and how does it affect pregnancy, menstruation, and overall health? - #16927

I’ve been reading a lot about hormones recently, and I came across progesterone. I know it plays a role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy, but I’m still not entirely clear on what it does in the body. What exactly is progesterone, and how does it affect things like ovulation, menstruation, and overall health? From what I understand, progesterone is a hormone that helps regulate the menstrual cycle and prepares the body for pregnancy. But how does it specifically affect the uterus, and what role does it play during different stages of the menstrual cycle? Does it help in the implantation of a fertilized egg, and what happens if there’s not enough progesterone to support pregnancy? I’ve also read that progesterone levels fluctuate during pregnancy. When are progesterone levels highest, and how do they support the development of the fetus? What happens if progesterone levels are too low during pregnancy, and how is this managed? I’ve heard that some women are given progesterone supplements if their levels are low. How do these supplements work, and are there any natural ways to support healthy progesterone production? I’m also curious about the effects of progesterone on mood, skin, and weight. I’ve heard that some women experience changes in mood or acne related to progesterone levels, especially during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. How can these fluctuations in progesterone be managed, and are there any dietary or lifestyle changes that can help balance hormone levels? If anyone has experience with progesterone supplements or hormone imbalances, I’d love to hear about your experience. How did you manage any symptoms, and what treatments or natural remedies helped you maintain healthy progesterone levels?