Symptoms of an elevated progesterone level

Progesterone, often referred to as the "pregnancy hormone," is one of the sex hormones and plays a central role in both women and men. But what happens when hormone levels become imbalanced? Elevated progesterone levels can cause surprising and often bothersome symptoms that many people do not associate with this hormone – from fatigue and mood swings to physical changes. In this blog, you will learn more about progesterone. The most common symptoms, causes, consequences, and treatment options for elevated progesterone levels will be discussed to help maintain your health and well-being.

Table of Contents

• What is progesterone?

• Symptoms of elevated progesterone levels

• Causes of elevated progesterone levels

• Normal progesterone levels by cycle phase and sex

• How are elevated progesterone levels treated?

• Summary

What is progesterone?

Progesterone is a naturally occurring hormone:

In women, progesterone is primarily produced in the ovaries (corpus luteum) after ovulation. During pregnancy, the placenta takes over the production of the hormone. Small amounts of progesterone are also produced in the adrenal glands (Cable JK. et al., 2023). In men, progesterone is also produced in the adrenal glands and the testes (Oettel M. et al. 2004).

Functions of progesterone in women:

• Regulates the menstrual cycle

• Thickens the uterine lining to prepare for implantation of a fertilized egg

• Continues to rise during pregnancy

• Prevents, during pregnancy:

  • ovulation

  • premature labor by relaxing the uterine muscles

• Prepares the breasts for breastfeeding

Source: Cleveland Clinic, 2022

Functions of progesterone in men:

Although produced in smaller amounts, it is important for:

• Sperm production

• Hormone synthesis (precursor for testosterone and cortisol)

• Stabilization of hormonal balance
  

Source: Barros L.A. et al., 2015

Other systemic effects of progesterone (in all sexes):

• Regulates the central nervous system (e.g., mood, sleep)

• Affects the:

  • immune system

  • cardiovascular system

  • kidney function

  • fat metabolism

  • behavior and respiratory system
    

Source: Oettel M., et al., 2004

Symptoms of elevated progesterone levels

High progesterone levels generally do not have negative health effects (Cleveland Clinic, 2022). In some cases, however, elevated progesterone levels can cause a variety of symptoms. These symptoms can vary individually and depend on the underlying cause of the elevated progesterone level. Common symptoms include:

• Swollen or tender breasts

• Mood swings, anxiety or restlessness, depression

• Bloating

• Fatigue

• Decreased libido

• Weight gain

Source: Pugle M. 2024. 

Causes of elevated progesterone levels

Several factors can lead to elevated progesterone levels. It is important to understand the causes to take appropriate treatment measures:

• Pregnancy: During pregnancy, progesterone levels rise significantly. Elevated progesterone levels outside the normal range during pregnancy may indicate a twin pregnancy or an abnormal pregnancy (University of Rochester Medical Center, n.d.).

• Adrenal overactivity: The adrenal glands produce a variety of hormones, including progesterone, and overactivity of the adrenal glands can lead to elevated progesterone levels (Krucik G., 2017).

• Hormone therapy: Some women receive progesterone as part of hormone replacement therapy to treat menopause symptoms or as part of fertility treatments to promote ovulation and implantation.

• Cysts: (Cyst = a fluid-filled cavity in tissue, consisting of tissue fluid, blood, and a pasty component). Certain types of ovarian cysts, especially so-called luteal cysts, can increase progesterone production. These cysts form after ovulation and can continuously release progesterone (MedlinePlus, 2022).

• Tumor: Elevated progesterone levels, even when not pregnant, may indicate an ovarian tumor known as a lipid ovarian tumor or choriocarcinoma (University of Rochester Medical Center, n.d.).

Normal progesterone levels by cycle phase and sex

Elevated progesterone levels occur when progesterone levels rise above the normal range. Normal progesterone levels vary depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle and whether or not a woman is pregnant. High progesterone levels are usually normal in the second half of the menstrual cycle (luteal phase) and during pregnancy.

Normal progesterone levels (ng/mL):

Source: University of Rochester Medical Center, n.d.; HealthMatters, n.d.

*Follicular phase: The first half of the menstrual cycle, starting with the first day of menstruation and ending with ovulation.
*Luteal phase: The second half of the menstrual cycle, starting after ovulation and ending at the beginning of the next menstruation.
*Trimester: Pregnancy is divided into trimesters. One trimester corresponds to three months.

How are elevated progesterone levels treated?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. An individualized treatment plan helps restore hormonal balance and improve quality of life.

• Medication-based treatment: Adjustment or change of hormonal medications under medical supervision

• Lifestyle: Healthy diet, regular exercise, stress reduction; avoiding caffeine and smoking may lower progesterone

• Monitoring: Regular blood tests at the doctor’s office or via home test kits to track progesterone levels

Sources: Herrera A. Y., et al., 2016; Kotsopoulos J., et al., 2009; Zumoff B., et al., 1990

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Summary

Progesterone is a naturally occurring hormone present in both women and men. Elevated progesterone levels can cause a variety of symptoms and health issues, such as mood swings, bloating, or fatigue, which are often not associated with this diagnosis. Causes of elevated levels may be pregnancy-related, but in rare cases, they can also stem from adrenal overactivity or cysts. Suitable treatment options range from medical therapy to lifestyle changes. Monitoring and regulating progesterone levels can alleviate many unpleasant symptoms and improve quality of life.