Does Progesterone Make You Tired?

Key takeaways

• Increased progesterone levels during the luteal phase, pregnancy, or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) treatment can increase fatigue.

• Decreased levels of progesterone in menopause can cause sleep disturbances.

• HRT can help regulate hormone levels, but treatment with HRT might cause some tiredness.

• Talk to your provider about any unusual tiredness. They may suggest a treatment adjustment or self-care options.

The female body runs on a well-balanced combination of hormones. Estrogen regulates the menstrual cycle and ovulation. Meanwhile, progesterone prepares the body for a potential pregnancy by thickening the uterine lining.

But progesterone can cause fatigue, especially during the luteal phase of your cycle when progesterone levels peak and when they rise in early pregnancy. On the flip side, dropping levels of progesterone in menopause can also make it harder to sleep.

But why does progesterone make you tired, exactly? Let’s find out.

Progesterone is a hormone produced primarily in the ovaries, the placenta during pregnancy, and the adrenal glands. It plays a crucial role in regulating various functions in the menstrual cycle.

In the luteal phase of your cycle, progesterone helps prepare the uterus for a possible pregnancy by strengthening the uterine lining and cervical mucus. During pregnancy, it supports the mother’s immune system and fetal growth.

Additionally, progesterone helps balance the effects of estrogen in the body.

Progesterone During Pregnancy

After the embryo implants in the uterus, progesterone levels remain high to help keep the uterine lining thick and healthy. This ensures a safe environment for the developing fetus.

The hormone also helps prevent the uterus from contracting too early, reducing the risk of complications. Beyond that, it supports breast development for breastfeeding later on.

If egg fertilization doesn’t occur, progesterone levels drop, causing the shedding of the uterine lining — or the start of a menstrual period.

Progesterone During Perimenopause and Menopause 

During perimenopause and menopause, progesterone levels gradually decline as the ovaries release fewer eggs. This drop can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and symptoms like mood swings, night sweats, or hot flashes. 

Once menopause begins, progesterone levels significantly decrease. This often leads to the end of menstruation. And the drop in estrogen results in various changes in the body, like reduced bone density and a higher risk of heart issues.

Overall, lower progesterone can affect mood, energy levels, and overall well-being during this time.

Progesterone is often called the “relaxing hormone” because it has calming effects on the body. Why does progesterone make you tired, though?

It helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation by influencing neurotransmitters in the brain, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which plays a role in calming the nervous system.

Progesterone can also help relax smooth muscles, including those in the uterus, which is important during pregnancy. Its overall soothing effects contribute to a sense of well-being, especially during hormonal changes. This might make you feel tired.

→ Read: Hormones and Anxiety: The Link and How to Fix It

Progesterone and Sleep Quality

Too little progesterone can affect the quality of your sleep. This is common for people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where elevated testosterone levels cause reduced progesterone production in the body.

According to research, lower levels of progesterone can cause sleep issues and make you more likely to have sleep apnea.

Some women may need to supplement with hormones to maintain hormonal balance and regulate menstrual cycles during perimenopause or lessen the common symptoms of menopause. This is called hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Estrogen is the main hormone used with HRT, but progesterone is sometimes added (in the form of progesterone or progestin) for those who still have a uterus. This is called combined HRT.

Progesterone has a protective effect that keeps the uterine lining from thickening. This can help prevent endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer.

Progestin can cause some side effects of its own, including:

• Lightheadedness or dizziness

• Fainting

• Fever and other flu-like symptoms

• Irregular heartbeat

• Shortness of breath

• Headaches

• Joint pain or stiffness

• Loss of appetite

• Nausea

• Swelling of the eyelids

• Weakness

• Vomiting

• Depression

It’s essential to work with your provider to find the right kind of hormone replacement therapy and dosage to fit your needs. Finding the proper medication can lessen the above symptoms, and some people may not experience any of them at all.

→ Learn more: Types of HRT Explained

If you experience extreme fatigue or weakness that’s out of the ordinary for you, check with your healthcare provider. They can do blood tests to check your hormone levels and assess your medical history to see what else could be going on.

In the meantime, several self-care strategies can help alleviate tiredness.

Eat Well and Frequently

Try eating smaller meals throughout the day instead of your regular three meals. Fuel your body with nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables, lean meats, healthy fats, and whole grains.

Vitamin C and zinc can help promote healthy progesterone levels. Ask your provider if they recommend taking a supplement.

Exercise

You don’t need to hit the gym hard. Instead, try light movement, like a short walk, a few stretches, or a quick yoga session. Movement helps increase the amount of oxygen in the body and improves circulation.

Reduce Stress

Stress increases progesterone and cortisol levels, making you even more susceptible to progesterone fatigue. Try yoga, walking outside, listening to music, or meditation to calm your mind and body.

A well-balanced combination of hormones, like progesterone and estrogen, helps regulate the menstrual cycle and ovulation. An increase in progesterone during your luteal phase can cause fatigue.

On the other hand, a dip in progesterone in the menopausal stage can negatively affect sleep — also making you feel tired. Some women may opt for HRT during perimenopause and menopause to help balance hormones and manage the symptoms of menopause. Lifestyle changes like healthy eating and daily movement can help too.

Consult your healthcare provider if you’re feeling extra tired and think progesterone might have something to do with it.

Get answers to frequently asked questions about progesterone tiredness and how to combat progesterone fatigue.

How long does it take to adjust to taking progesterone? 

How long it takes to adjust to taking progesterone can vary from person to person. Some may start feeling the effects within days, while others might take weeks to notice changes. Common initial side effects, such as mood swings, headaches, or bloating, might happen within the first few days but often subside once the body adjusts. Discuss any concerns with your medical provider.

What are the symptoms of too much progesterone? 

The symptoms of too much progesterone can include fatigue, weight gain, bloating, breast tenderness, irregular menstrual cycles, and headaches. Work with your healthcare provider to find the right dosage, and let them know if you’re experiencing any side effects.

Why does progesterone make you sleep so well? 

Progesterone has a sedative effect on the brain, which can induce feelings of calm and relaxation. It also regulates your sleep-wake cycle, especially in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, when progesterone levels are higher. These combined effects can improve sleep quality for some people. But not everyone will experience increased sleepiness with progesterone.