Progesterone – How Important Is It?
I recently visited my GP and asked if she would whip out my Mirena coil as it had overstayed its welcome period of five years. And I figured it was doubtful (although not unheard of) that I would get pregnant.
Her answer surprised me. At first, I just thought it was because she didn’t fancy having to do the deed. However, she told me it could stay there for another five years!
My initial thought was, “What on earth” So I thought I would share the reason with you.
Progesterone helps to thin the womb’s lining; this protects us against endometrial cancer. However, after a five-year stint sitting on my cervical wall, there wasn’t a fat lot left. So she prescribed me a progesterone tablet to be taken daily, which will increase the protection of my uterus.
So if you have a uterus, then here are the benefits of Progesterone besides that mentioned above:-
Working alongside Estrogen
- Vaginal symptoms, including dryness, itching, burning, and painful intercourse
- Bone loss and fracture due to osteoporosis
- Heart disease and stroke
- Mood changes and disorders like depression and anxiety
Researchers have also found several other possible benefits of Progesterone after menopause.
- In one study, taking Progesterone at bedtime was associated with a higher quality of deep sleep and less severe night sweats.
- Another study found that taking Progesterone may improve visual and verbal memory in menopausal women. However, other studies didn’t see these same cognitive benefits.
Not so much of an underdog after all.