Symptoms of low progesterone

There is a lot of information out there about oestrogen dominance or excess, which is when we may have an excessive amount of oestrogen resulting in a hormonal imbalance, and what symptoms this might cause. It’s important to note that oestrogen excess can also occur even if our oestrogen levels are normal or within range, but our progesterone levels are too low.  Progesterone is our calming, soothing happiness hormone that helps to lighten periods and reduce anxiety plus so much more. It’s super important to ensure we have adequate progesterone levels! 


We’ve talked about the symptoms of oestrogen excess, but what are the symptoms of progesterone deficiency?

 

  • No luteal phase or short luteal phase (this is the phase after ovulation, or the second half of your menstrual cycle)

  • Fertile mucus during the premenstrual phase

  • Premenstrual syndrome with symptoms such as mood swings, nervous tension, irritability, anxiety, increased appetite, headache, fatigue, dizziness, fainting, breast tenderness, palpitations, cramping pain, reduced pain threshold and fluid retention

  • Premenstrual bleeding or spotting 

  • Prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding 

  • Hair loss and sleep problems 


Why would we have low progesterone? 

Low progesterone can occur due to a lack of ovulation, or if we have a short luteal phase so not enough progesterone is made. This can happen due to a number of reasons, including too much exercise, under-eating, inflammation, low body weight, menopause, thyroid issues, stress and PCOS.  

How do we test for low progesterone?

Progesterone levels can be measured via a blood test or in saliva. Progesterone peaks in our luteal phase after ovulation, so progesterone levels are best assessed 5-7 days after ovulation and 5-7 days before the onset of your next period. Basically count 7 days backwards from when your period is due. 

  • 28 day cycle: progesterone is best on day 21 (ovulation at day 14 + 7 days).

  • Short cycle (e.g. 21 days), progesterone is best  assessed on day 14. 

  • Long cycle (e.g. 35 days), progesterone is best assessed on day 28. 


How can we increase low progesterone?

  • There are several herbs and nutrients that can help to regulate our oestrogen:progesterone balance. 

  • Manage our stress levels.

  • Ensure we are eating enough food, have a healthy body weight and a moderate amount of exercise. 

Hayley Brass