progesterone
n. uncountablen. a natural hormone in the body that helps manage the menstrual cycle and supports pregnancy.
n. a steroid hormone secreted by the corpus luteum and the placenta that prepares the uterus for the implantation of a fertilized ovum and maintains pregnancy.
The doctor checked her progesterone levels during the first trimester.
A drop in progesterone levels usually signals the body to begin the menstrual cycle.
In addition to its reproductive functions, progesterone acts as a neurosteroid in the brain, influencing mood and sleep patterns through its interaction with various neurotransmitter systems.
From pro- + Latin gestāre (“to bear, to carry”) + -one.
Often used in medical contexts to refer to the hormone itself or synthetic versions used in therapy.