What is the role of progesterone in relation to estrogen during menopause?

Progesterone plays a crucial role in balancing the effects of estrogen, particularly during menopause. As women transition through menopause, estrogen levels fluctuate and often decline, leading to various symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes. Progesterone helps to counterbalance some of these estrogen-driven effects by promoting a healthier hormonal environment.

During the reproductive years, progesterone is secreted mainly by the ovaries after ovulation, which helps to prepare the uterus for potential pregnancy and regulate the menstrual cycle. In the context of menopause, maintaining a balance between estrogen and progesterone is important to mitigate some of the negative effects that arise from estrogen dominance, which can cause side effects like increased anxiety or weight gain.

This balancing act is particularly significant for women undergoing hormone therapy or experiencing other hormonal changes related to menopause. Understanding the role of progesterone in this context helps guide effective treatment options and symptom management for menopausal women.