What is estrogen?
Estrogen is a female hormone that is essential to the development and regulation of our reproductive systems. Estrogen is a sex hormone, which just means it affects parts of our bodies that have to do with sex, like ovaries. Estrogen stimulates the growth of ovaries and follicles, and thickens the cervical mucus (what we usually call “discharge”). When our estrogen levels are unstable, we may feel drastic changes in mood, weight gain, hot flashes, or migraines. Consistently high or low levels of estrogen may cause health issues that need medical care.
What is progesterone?
Progesterone is another important sex hormone involved in female reproduction. It is especially important for a baby’s development during pregnancy. During the menstrual cycle, progesterone’s most important job is to prepare the uterus for an egg to implant and grow. It creates the cradle for the baby. Progesterone levels naturally rise during pregnancy and after ovulation, to make sure this cradle protects the baby. If the egg is not fertilized, progesterone levels decrease, which triggers our “period.” High progesterone symptoms include breast swelling and tenderness and bloating. If these symptoms persist after a missed period, it is likely that you are pregnant.