Originally published: 17.JUL.2020
Last updated: 07.11.2023
The female sex hormone, progesterone, plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and the maintenance of pregnancy - two critical aspects of a woman’s health. That said, when it comes to sex hormones, too much of a good thing isn’t always beneficial. Changes in weight, water retention, and a shift in sex drive can all be a result of high progesterone levels. Other common signs and symptoms of high progesterone levels can include:
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Discomfort in the legs
- Water retention
Read on for insights into the side effects that can occur when progesterone levels fluctuate plus how you can check in on your progesterone levels.
See also: What is Progesterone?
- What Happens When Progesterone Levels Are Too High?
- What are the Side Effects of High Progesterone?
- Why do I Have to Check my Progesterone Levels on day 21?
- How do I Check my Progesterone Levels?
What Happens When Progesterone Levels Are Too High?
Progesterone levels can be impacted by several factors including hormone replacement therapy, hormonal birth control, progesterone supplements, and of course, pregnancy [1]. High levels of progesterone are also sometimes associated with specific conditions such as:
- Ovarian cysts
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (a group of inherited disorders that affect the adrenal gland) [3]
It’s important to know that there are no perceived severe consequences of having too much progesterone. And it’s completely natural for your progesterone levels to rise slightly higher than normal from time to time.
If you are concerned about your hormone health, always speak with a professional you trust.
What are the Side Effects of High Progesterone?
Remember, high progesterone levels are not always cause for concern which means high progesterone levels and negative side effects don’t usually go hand in hand. However, if you’re experiencing high progesterone levels and you’re not pregnant, it’s possible that it could be a result of a health condition, these include:
- Ovarian cysts [5]
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia [6]
- Adrenal cancer[7]
Why do I Have to Check my Progesterone Levels on day 21?
Tests commonly monitor ovulation on Day 21 of your cycle. The test has to be taken on this day of the menstrual cycle as progesterone levels rise following ovulation or the release of eggs from the ovaries.
See also: How Do You Check Progesterone Levels From Home?
How do I Check my Progesterone Levels?
If you’re curious about your progesterone levels, you can check your levels with your local doctor or get insights from home with LetsGetChecked’s range of Female Hormone testing options.
LetsGetChecked’s Progesterone Test measures progesterone levels to confirm if ovulation has occurred on day 21 of a menstrual cycle. Online results will be available within 5 days and our dedicated medical team will be available to answer any questions you may have throughout the process.
You should consider checking your hormone levels if:
- You’re looking to start a family
- You’re thinking about pregnancy down the line
- You’re interested in knowing more about your hormone levels
- You’re experiencing low progesterone symptoms
References
