# Progesterone --- **Progesterone** is a [[hormone]] that is produced by the [[ovaries]] and stimulated by [[follicle-stimulating hormone|FSH]]. Broadly speaking progesterone helps the body prepare for pregnancy (pro-gestation). It does things like: - build up the endometrium to form a [[uterus|decidual layer]] - if pregnancy occurs, further production of progesterone continues to build the decidua for placental attachment - encourages a quiescent uterus, meaning one that *doesn't* contract. - chills out the uterus by relaxing the [[smooth muscle]] in the uterine wall - unfortunately this can also relax other smooth muscles in the body - in the intestines, which is why pregnant people get constipated - in the esophageal sphincters, which is one reason why pregnant people get [[GERD]] - develops lactiferous cells in the breast to deliver colostrum and mature milk ```smiles CC(=O)C1CCC2C1(CCC3C2CCC4=CC(=O)CCC34C)C ``` ## Progesterone During The Menstrual Cycle Progesterone is released at a basal level during the follicular phase, and then surges during the luteal phase. If there is no successful fertilization levels drop down off again. ![[menstrual cycle.png]] ## Progesterone During Pregnancy If fertilization occurs progesterone continues to be produced by the [[corpus luteum]]. Around week 10, the [[placenta]] takes over production and the corpus luteum regresses. ![[pregnancy hormones.png]] After the [[childbirth|baby is born]] ## Meds - antineoplastic/appetite stimulant - **megestrol** (brand name: **Megace**) is a progestin that can is used to treat [[uterine cancer]] or help patients with [[AIDS]] boost their appetite ___