Article updated: 24th March 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 great; a change in weight, water retention and changes in sex drive may all be a result of high progesterone levels.
The most common signs and symptoms of high progesterone levels include:
- Weight fluctuations
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Discomfort or pain in the legs
- Water retention
- Changes to sex drive/libido
See also: What is Progesterone?
What happens when progesterone levels are too high?
Progesterone levels can be affected because of hormone replacement therapy, the oral contraceptive pill, progesterone supplements or, of course - pregnancy[1]. As a result, from time to time, it’s possible for progesterone levels to rise slightly higher than ‘normal’.
Though high levels of progesterone are sometimes associated with congenital adrenal hyperplasia [2] - a group of inherited disorders that affect the adrenal gland[3], there are said to be no severe consequences of having too much progesterone.
What are the side effects of high progesterone?
High progesterone levels and negative side effects don’t usually go hand in hand. Though, 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?
If you’re curious about your progesterone levels, you can test your levels with your local doctor or from the comfort of your own home with an at-home lab test.
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.
References
