Progesterone: The Hormone That Isn’t Talked About Enough!

April 17, 2025

If you've ever felt like your body was working against you—struggling with restless sleep, mood swings, irregular cycles, or unexplained fatigue—it’s possible you’re dealing with low progesterone. While estrogen often gets the spotlight, progesterone plays an equally vital role in hormone balance, fertility, and overall well-being. Let’s dive into what progesterone does, how it changes throughout life, and what happens when you don’t have enough of it.


What Does Progesterone Do?

Progesterone is often called the "calming hormone" because of its ability to promote relaxation, stable moods, and restful sleep. It’s produced primarily in the ovaries after ovulation and plays key roles in:

  • Balancing estrogen – Prevents estrogen dominance, which can lead to heavy periods, breast tenderness, and mood swings.
  • Supporting sleep and relaxation – Activates GABA receptors in the brain, helping you feel calm and promoting deep sleep.
  • Regulating menstrual cycles – Ensures ovulation occurs and supports a healthy luteal phase (the second half of your cycle).
  • Aiding fertility and pregnancy – Helps prepare the uterus for implantation and maintains pregnancy in the early stages.
  • Protecting bones and metabolism – Works alongside estrogen to keep bones strong and regulate insulin sensitivity.

When progesterone levels are optimal, you feel balanced, calm, and energized. But when they drop? Your body lets you know.


How Progesterone Changes Through Life

Progesterone levels fluctuate based on where you are in your reproductive life.

Reproductive Years (Teens to Late 30s)

During your prime reproductive years, progesterone is produced after ovulation each month. However, many women experience low progesterone due to stress, poor ovulation, or conditions like PCOS. This can lead to:

  • Irregular or heavy periods
  • PMS, anxiety, and mood swings
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Mid-cycle spotting

Perimenopause (Late 30s to Early 50s)

This is where progesterone takes a sharp decline. Since ovulation becomes more sporadic, progesterone production drops first—often long before estrogen significantly decreases. Symptoms of low progesterone in perimenopause include:

  • Increased anxiety and irritability
  • Restless sleep and waking up at night
  • Shorter or irregular cycles
  • Breast tenderness
  • Migraines or headaches around your period

Menopause and Beyond

Once you reach menopause, progesterone production is almost nonexistent. While estrogen gets much of the focus in menopause treatment, low progesterone can contribute to ongoing symptoms like:

  • Trouble sleeping
  • Increased stress and emotional sensitivity
  • Brain fog
  • Joint discomfort


Signs You May Need More Progesterone

If you’re experiencing any of the following, your body may be asking for more progesterone support:

  • Difficulty falling or staying asleep
  • Anxiety, mood swings, or feeling "on edge"
  • Irregular or heavy periods
  • PMS symptoms that seem worse than they should be
  • Mid-cycle spotting
  • Worsening headaches or migraines

The good news? There are ways to restore balance and support healthy progesterone levels.


How We Can Help

If low progesterone is impacting your quality of life, we take a root-cause approach to restoring balance. Here’s how we help:

Comprehensive Hormone Testing

We don’t guess—we test. A full hormone panel can help us understand your progesterone levels in relation to estrogen, cortisol, and other important hormones.

Bioidentical Progesterone Therapy

For women who need extra support, supplementing bioidentical progesterone can change everything. This can come in the form of topical creams, oral capsules, or sublingual drops, depending on your unique needs.

Lifestyle & Nutritional Support

Your lifestyle plays a huge role in progesterone production. We guide you on:

  • Nutrient-rich foods that naturally support progesterone production (hello, zinc, vitamin B6, and magnesium!)
  • Stress management techniques to prevent cortisol from suppressing progesterone
  • Quality sleep strategies to enhance hormone balance naturally

If you suspect low progesterone is affecting your well-being, we’re here to help. Book a consultation, and let’s create a personalized plan to get you back to feeling your best.

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By 66e82a492a928c384e21881e April 17, 2025
Spring is finally here—bringing warmer temperatures, blooming flowers, and unfortunately, new skin concerns . If you’ve noticed your skin feeling more irritated, dry, or reactive this time of year, you’re not alone. Seasonal allergies, increased sun exposure, and shifts in humidity can all trigger eczema flare-ups, redness, breakouts, and inflammation .  At our practice, we take a whole-body approach to skincare—addressing the underlying causes of seasonal skin issues while providing targeted treatments to soothe and strengthen your skin. Let’s dive into the common springtime skin concerns and how we can help you restore balance and achieve your healthiest skin yet. Why Spring Can Be Tough on Your Skin Springtime brings environmental changes that can throw your skin off balance. Common culprits include: Increased pollen & allergens – Can trigger eczema, rashes, and breakouts , especially for those with sensitive skin. Shifts in temperature & humidity – May lead to dryness, oil imbalance, or increased irritation . More sun exposure – Can cause hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and flare-ups of rosacea or melasma . Sweat & clogged pores – Rising temps can mean more oil production and acne-prone skin . If your skin is reacting to the season, the good news is we have solutions . How We Address Springtime Skin Concerns Our medspa treatments go beyond surface-level fixes—we focus on skin health and resilience to help you feel confident all season long. 1. Soothe & Strengthen Irritated Skin If you’re dealing with eczema flare-ups, redness, or inflammation , we offer: LED Light Therapy – Reduces inflammation and calms sensitive skin. Custom Facials & Peels – Hydrate, rebalance, and strengthen the skin barrier. Medical-Grade Skincare – Barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide to protect against seasonal stressors. 2. Protect & Repair from Sun Exposure More time outdoors means increased sun damage and hyperpigmentation risks . We help protect and reverse damage with: Laser Resurfacing & IPL Treatments – Treat sunspots, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone. Antioxidant-Infused Facials – Support skin repair and defend against environmental stressors. SPF & Skincare Consultations – We’ll help you choose the best sunscreen and skincare routine for spring. 3. Combat Allergy-Induced Breakouts & Puffiness Allergies don’t just cause sneezing—they can lead to puffy, irritated skin and congestion . We recommend: Lymphatic Drainage and Hydracials – Reduce puffiness and promote detoxification. IV Therapy for Hydration & Detox – Helps flush out allergens and replenish key nutrients for clearer, calmer skin. 4. Treat Seasonal Acne & Oil Imbalance If warmer weather has your skin producing more oil and breaking out , our acne-focused treatments include: Chemical Peels – Exfoliate, decongest pores, and reduce acne-causing bacteria. Microneedling – Improves skin texture and minimizes post-acne marks. Customized Acne Protocols – Targeted skincare and treatments designed to keep breakouts under control. Spring is Here—Let’s Get Your Skin Ready If seasonal changes are stressing out your skin , we’re here to help. Our integrative medspa offers customized treatments to address eczema, acne, redness, and sun damage —all while strengthening your skin for long-term health. Book a consultation today and let’s create a personalized spring skincare plan that leaves you glowing all season long.
By 66e82a492a928c384e21881e April 17, 2025
I often find my clients haven’t heard about metabolic flexibility or rather inflexibility! When this is the case, it means your body struggles to switch between burning carbs and fat for fuel, keeping you stuck in an energy rollercoaster and making it harder to maintain a healthy weight.  What is Metabolic Flexibility? Metabolic flexibility is your body’s ability to adapt its fuel source based on what’s available—switching seamlessly between glucose (from carbs) and stored fat for energy. When your metabolism is flexible, you: Have steady, all-day energy Burn fat efficiently Maintain stable blood sugar levels Adapt easily to different eating patterns However, if you’re metabolically inflexible , you might experience: Blood sugar crashes and cravings Brain fog and energy dips Difficulty losing weight Increased risk of insulin resistance Your body should naturally shift between burning carbs and fat. If it can’t, it’s time to retrain your metabolism. Why Metabolic Flexibility is Essential When your body efficiently switches between carbs and fat for fuel, you gain major health benefits: 1. More Energy, Less Fatigue No more energy crashes after meals or feeling like you “need” sugar to get through the day. A flexible metabolism keeps you fueled and focused, no matter what. 2. Easier Fat Burning & Weight Management When your body relies too much on glucose, it struggles to burn fat. Improving metabolic flexibility teaches your body to access stored fat for energy , making weight loss easier and more sustainable. 3. Improved Blood Sugar & Insulin Sensitivity A flexible metabolism helps control blood sugar and lowers the risk of insulin resistance, diabetes, and inflammation —key factors in long-term metabolic health. 4. Freedom from Constant Hunger & Cravings When your body can efficiently burn fat for energy, you don’t feel hangry every few hours. You can go longer between meals without feeling weak or foggy. How to Improve Your Metabolic Flexibility If you feel stuck in energy crashes, weight plateaus, or metabolic dysfunction , here’s how to retrain your body: 1. Eat to Support Flexibility Protein first – Helps stabilize blood sugar and supports muscle mass. Healthy fats – Promotes fat oxidation and keeps you satisfied. Smart carbs – Choose fiber-rich carbs to prevent blood sugar spikes. 2. Improve Insulin Sensitivity GLP-1 receptor agonists (like semaglutide or tirzepatide) help regulate blood sugar and curb glucose fluctuations. Metformin improves insulin sensitivity and metabolic function. Supplements like berberine, inositol, and magnesium support blood sugar balance naturally. 3. Strength Train & Move More Building muscle improves insulin sensitivity and helps your body burn fat more efficiently. Try: Strength training at least 2-3 times per week. Walking after meals to help regulate glucose. HIIT or resistance workouts to enhance metabolic flexibility. 4. Play with Meal Timing & Fasting Extend your overnight fast to 12-14 hours to encourage fat burning. Avoid late-night eating , which can interfere with metabolism. Try occasional fasting if your body responds well to it. 5. Prioritize Sleep & Stress Management Lack of sleep and chronic stress increase cortisol and insulin resistance , making it harder to burn fat. Support your metabolism by: Keeping a consistent sleep schedule . Using stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing or journaling. Supplementing with magnesium and adaptogens to support relaxation. You’ve Got This! Metabolic flexibility is the foundation of a healthy metabolism . When your body can seamlessly switch between carbs and fat for fuel, you’ll have steady energy, better blood sugar control, and improved fat metabolism —all while reducing the risk of chronic disease. If you feel stuck in metabolic dysfunction , we can help you assess your metabolic health and build a customized plan to optimize nutrition, movement, and hormone support for long-term success.
April 17, 2025
If you notice something lacking in your functioning this Spring, it might be that you’re missing important micronutrients —the essential vitamins and minerals that keep everything functioning properly. Even if you eat a “healthy” diet, factors like stress, poor absorption, and lifestyle habits can lead to deficiencies. Micronutrient imbalances don’t always show up in obvious ways. Instead, your body sends subtle but important signals when it’s running low. Signs You May Be Missing Essential Micronutrients 1. Persistent Fatigue & Low Energy If you feel constantly drained, even after a full night’s sleep , your body could be lacking key nutrients like: Iron – Essential for oxygen transport. Low levels lead to anemia and persistent exhaustion. B Vitamins (B12, B6, Folate) – Help convert food into energy and support brain function. Magnesium – Plays a role in muscle relaxation, energy production, and stress regulation. 2. Hair Loss & Brittle Nails Thinning hair, excessive shedding, or brittle nails could indicate: Biotin (B7) Deficiency – Supports keratin production for strong hair and nails. Zinc Deficiency – Important for cell growth and hair follicle health. Iron Deficiency – Leads to hair thinning and slow growth. 3. Dry, Dull, or Acne-Prone Skin If your skin is dry, inflamed, or breaking out more than usual , your body may be lacking: Vitamin A – Supports skin cell turnover and prevents breakouts. Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Reduce inflammation and improve skin hydration. Vitamin C – Essential for collagen production and skin repair. Zinc – Helps regulate oil production and fights acne. 4. Muscle Cramps, Restless Legs & Poor Recovery Frequent muscle cramps or difficulty recovering from workouts? You may be low in: Magnesium – Helps with muscle relaxation and nervous system function. Potassium – Supports proper muscle contractions. Calcium – Essential for muscle and nerve function. 5. Frequent Illness & Slow Healing If you find yourself catching every cold that comes around , your immune system may be lacking: Vitamin D – Crucial for immune function and overall inflammation control. Zinc – Helps your body fight infections and heal wounds faster. Vitamin C – Supports immune response and skin healing. 6. Brain Fog & Mood Imbalances Struggling with focus, memory, or mood swings ? Nutrients that support brain function include: B Vitamins – Essential for neurotransmitter production and mental clarity. Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Improve brain function and mood regulation. Magnesium – Helps reduce anxiety and improve sleep. 7. Cravings & Blood Sugar Swings If you feel like your hunger is all over the place or you experience frequent energy crashes , you might need: Chromium – Helps regulate blood sugar and insulin sensitivity. Magnesium – Supports glucose metabolism and reduces sugar cravings. Fiber & Protein – Essential for keeping blood sugar stable. Why Are Micronutrient Deficiencies So Common? Even with a balanced diet, nutrient gaps can happen due to: Chronic stress , which depletes essential vitamins and minerals. Poor gut health or absorption issues , making it harder to extract nutrients from food. Medications , like birth control or acid blockers, which can interfere with nutrient absorption. Restrictive diets , including plant-based, keto, or low-calorie diets, that may lack variety in nutrients. Age-related changes , as absorption efficiency declines over time. How We Can Help: Micronutrient Deficiency Testing Instead of guessing what your body needs, we offer comprehensive micronutrient deficiency testing to identify exactly which vitamins and minerals your body may be lacking. Our testing looks at: Intracellular & extracellular nutrient levels to assess both short- and long-term deficiencies. Key vitamins and minerals that impact metabolism, immunity, skin, hair, and brain function. Personalized recommendations based on your results, so you get targeted support instead of taking unnecessary supplements. Once we identify deficiencies, we create a customized plan using: High-quality supplementation tailored to your needs. IV nutrient therapy for rapid replenishment of many nutrients. Dietary recommendations to help you get more of the nutrients you need from food. Don’t Ignore the Signs If you’re experiencing unexplained fatigue, skin issues, hair thinning, or brain fog , your body may be telling you it needs more support. Nutrient deficiencies don’t always show up on standard bloodwork, but comprehensive testing can uncover the root cause of your symptoms. Want to know exactly what your body is missing? Schedule a consultation today to get tested and take the guesswork out of your health.
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By 66e82a492a928c384e21881e March 14, 2025
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By 66e82a492a928c384e21881e March 14, 2025
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By 66e82a492a928c384e21881e March 14, 2025
If you’ve been eating well, exercising, and still not seeing results, your hormones might be the real reason. Weight loss isn’t just about willpower—it’s about how your body processes food, burns fat, and regulates appetite. When hormones are out of balance, it can feel like nothing is working. Want some great news? With the right testing, therapies, and support, you can rebalance your hormones and finally see progress. Let’s break it down! 1. Insulin: The Fat-Storing Hormone High insulin levels make it easier to store fat and harder to burn it. If you struggle with cravings or stubborn belly fat, insulin resistance might be at play. How we help: GLP-1 therapy (think Ozempic) improves insulin sensitivity, while a low-glycemic nutrition plan helps keep blood sugar stable. 2. Cortisol: The Stress Hormone Chronic stress leads to high cortisol, which triggers belly fat storage, sugar cravings, and muscle loss. If you're always feeling on edge or struggling with energy crashes, cortisol could be to blame. How we help: We offer stress management strategies, sleep support, and supplements to regulate cortisol and help your body reset. 3. Estrogen: The Fat Distribution Hormone Too much or too little estrogen can cause weight gain around the hips, thighs, and midsection. Perimenopause and menopause make this even more challenging. How we help: BHRT (Bioidentical Hormone Therapy) restores balance, while nutrition and movement plans support necessary detoxification. 4. Testosterone: The Metabolism Booster Testosterone isn’t just for men—it plays a major role in muscle maintenance, fat-burning, and energy. Low levels can lead to slowed metabolism, muscle loss, and stubborn fat. How we help: BHRT, strength training guidance, and peptides may help restore testosterone and support lean muscle. 5. Thyroid: The Metabolism Regulator When thyroid hormones are low, metabolism slows, energy drops, and fat loss stalls. Common signs include fatigue, thinning hair, and cold hands and feet. How we help: Comprehensive thyroid testing ensures we address any imbalances with targeted therapies and nutritional support. 6. Ghrelin: The Hunger Hormone If you feel hungry all the time, ghrelin may be signaling your brain to eat—even when you don’t need to. How we help: GLP-1 therapy may help regulate your appetite, while a high-protein diet and meal timing strategies help naturally lower ghrelin levels. 7. Leptin: The Fat-Burning Hormone Leptin tells your body when you’re full. If leptin resistance develops, your body holds onto fat instead of burning it. How we help: We focus on improving leptin sensitivity through a combination of metabolic support, personalized nutrition, and strength training. The Right Plan Makes All the Difference At Selah Aesthetics and Wellness, we take a root-cause approach to weight loss with: Comprehensive hormone and metabolic testing GLP-1 weight loss peptide therapy to regulate appetite and insulin BHRT to balance hormones and boost metabolism Personalized nutrition, movement, and stress support You don’t have to keep fighting your body. When your hormones and metabolism are in balance, weight loss becomes easier and more sustainable. Ready to see real results? Book a consultation today, and let’s build a plan that works for you.
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