The Effects of Excess Progesterone

Progesterone is a hormone that occurs naturally in the female body. Men also produce progesterone in small amounts, but testosterone is more important to the maturing of the male body. Healthy progesterone levels are required to maintain the cells and organs of the female body. It is produced naturally in the body to prepare the uterus for pregnancy. Progesterone is also available in chemical form as a birth control method and can be used to inhibit the process of ovulation. Progesterone is also used to heal bleeding around the uterus and as part of hormone replacement therapy.

Mild Anesthetic

• Excess levels of progesterone can lead to mild states of drowsiness and intoxication. This is caused by high progesterone levels down-regulating estrogen receptors, which are required for the brain to produce sufficient levels of serotonin. If you experience drowsiness, gradually decrease your intake until the symptoms subside.

Estrogen Dominance

• Symptoms of estrogen dominance are common in women who have had deficient levels of progesterone for several years. They occur as estrogen receptors regain sensitivity to the effects of progesterone. Common symptoms of estrogen dominance include headaches and enlarged, swollen breasts. Symptoms typically subside by themselves as the body adapts to the presence of progesterone.

Libido and Water Retention

• High levels of progesterone can inhibit testosterone converting into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), resulting in a decreased sex drive. Decreased libido due to excess levels of progesterone primarily occurs in men.

  Excess progesterone can result in water retention. This is usually due to a heightened conversion of progesterone into deoxycortisone, which is present in the adrenal glands.

Candida

• High levels of progesterone can decrease the activity of white blood cells, which can result in excessive bloating and gas. These white blood cells are needed to fight Candida, which are the harmful bacteria that occur during yeast infections.

Depression

• Depression can occur when excess progesterone inhibits estrogen receptors, which are crucial for the brain to produce serotonin needed to maintain emotional stability. Patients who experience depressive symptoms should consult their physician for further advice.