Progesterone Levels: Understanding Their Importance and Normal Ranges

What is progesterone?

Progesterone is a hormone that plays a central role in regulating several processes in the body, especially in connection with reproduction. It is a steroid hormone primarily produced in the ovaries in women and, to a lesser extent, in the adrenal glands (in both women and men). Progesterone helps prepare the uterus for a possible pregnancy and maintain a healthy pregnancy.

Think of progesterone as a gentle conductor: when the signal is there, the body creates the right conditions for the next movement in the “cycle” to play in harmony.

The role of progesterone in the body

Progesterone is not only a “pregnancy hormone.” It is involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and influences well-being and calm in the body. In a healthy balance, progesterone works alongside estrogen and testosterone to keep the system running smoothly.

For some, that balance feels like being able to breathe again after a deep inhalation — small, stable shifts that calm the nervous system.

How progesterone is produced

Production increases after ovulation, when the dominant follicle becomes the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone. The process can be compared to a seed sprouting when the conditions are right.

In men, smaller amounts of progesterone are produced in the adrenal glands and testes. It is still part of the overall hormonal network, influencing well-being and hormonal balance.

Normal progesterone levels

To understand hormonal imbalances, it is useful to know typical reference ranges. Values depend on life stage and cycle phase.

Normal values for women

In the luteal phase (after ovulation), levels are often around 5–20 ng/mL. Lower levels may indicate lack of ovulation and may be associated with irregular cycles.

During pregnancy, levels rise significantly and can reach around 90 ng/mL in the third trimester. Here, progesterone helps support the pregnancy and reduce early contractions.

Normal values for men

In men, progesterone typically ranges between 0.1–1 ng/mL. Even though the levels are low, the hormone contributes to the overall hormonal balance.

What affects progesterone levels?

Levels are influenced by age, stress, sleep, nutrition, and certain medical conditions. The daily “environment” surrounding the body matters more than one might think.

Factors that can support healthy levels

Regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and a balanced diet with healthy fats (e.g., from fish, nuts, and avocado) can support hormonal balance. Stress reduction (e.g., yoga, meditation, or calm walks) can also help, as prolonged stress typically disrupts this fine balance.

Vitamins and minerals from a varied diet — including vitamin B6 (from food or supplements) as part of normal hormone regulation — can be important pieces of the overall puzzle.

Factors that may lower levels

Severe sleep deprivation, high and prolonged stress, very restrictive diets, and certain conditions (e.g., PCOS) can disrupt balance. Endocrine disruptors from the environment (such as certain chemicals in plastics, cosmetics, etc.) can also play a role — here, conscious product choices can help reduce exposure.

Symptoms of imbalance

Both higher and lower levels can cause symptoms, and the pattern varies from person to person.

Possible symptoms of higher levels

Fatigue, mood swings, bloating, and weight gain are common in some cases. Others may experience cycle changes. It can feel like having the body in “cruise control,” but without fully steering yourself.

Possible symptoms of lower levels

Irregular cycles, PMS discomfort, restlessness/anxiety, and difficulties conceiving may occur. Small, targeted adjustments in sleep, stress, and diet can make a noticeable difference in daily life.

How to work with progesterone levels

The goal is balance, not perfection. Often, combining lifestyle measures with professional advice can be most effective.

Lifestyle changes

Prioritize 7–9 hours of sleep, daily movement, and meals with whole grains, vegetables, healthy fats, and proteins. Small habits create steady progress — like gently adjusting a sound mixer until the tone is just right.

Medical evaluation

With persistent symptoms, a doctor may assess the need for blood tests and possible treatment. Decisions are always best made individually and in dialogue with healthcare professionals.

At La Roar Life Science, you can find targeted products suited to different life stages — always with neutral, approved formulations:

FertilityCare® with zinc, which contributes to normal fertility and reproduction as well as to the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood.
FertilityMan® with selenium, which contributes to the normal formation of sperm cells.
HormonalCare® with vitamin B6, which contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity.

See all products — and find the solution that fits your everyday life.

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