Why is progesterone necessary in the IVF protocol?

Progesterone is the main pregnancy hormone. But why is it used during IVF, and what is the role of this hormone?

Progesterone in the IVF protocol

The chance that an embryo successfully implants in the uterus depends on three critical factors:

• the embryo quality
• the endometrium condition (inner lining of the uterus)
• the uterine muscle tone.

The last two factors are greatly influenced by progesterone. It prepares the endometrium for ovum implantation and eliminates muscle contractions in the uterus so that the body does not get rid of the egg. In addition, progesterone also affects the woman's immune system and helps to ensure the embryo is not rejected as a foreign body.

In natural conception, a yellow body of the ovary is formed after ovulation and produces progesterone until the placenta is formed. However, in the IVF protocol, after the embryo is transferred into the uterine cavity, a fertility specialist will definitely prescribe an additional intake of progesterone preparations to increase the chances of successful implantation and support the pregnancy in the early stages. The doctor will regulate the duration of taking the drugs. Remember that in no case should you cancel your hormonal drugs or adjust the dose. This should happen under the doctor’s supervision.

Progesterone during pregnancy

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As a rule, during pregnancy, the progesterone level in the body remains stable and decreases on the eve of childbirth.

Several symptoms can guess a decrease in progesterone:

• vaginal discharge
• decrease in basal temperature
• mood swings
• severe swelling
• headache.

Important: you should avoid making such a diagnosis yourself. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.