What is progesterone and why do I need it?

If you are undergoing a frozen embryo transfer, like an IVF cycle or a gestational carrier cycle, you may be given a medication called progesterone.

Progesterone is sometimes referred to as the pregnancy hormone. Progesterone prepares the endometrium for the potential of a pregnancy after ovulation. The hormone also triggers the lining of the uterus to thicken and be able to accept a fertilized egg.

Progesterone stimulates blood vessels to supply the endometrium and also provides nutrients to the developing embryo.

Once the placenta has formed, the placenta will start producing progesterone. In a few weeks, the placenta will become the primary producer of progesterone and you can be weaned off of the medication.

As you can see, progesterone has a big job and is very useful in pregnancy.