Reproductive functions of progesterone

Abstract

Progesterone has a central role in reproduction, being involved in ovulation, implantation, and pregnancy. Associated with this is the involvement of progesterone in regulation of uterine function during the menstrual cycle, by control of cyclical changes in proliferation and decidualization. Progesterone is essential for the development of decidual tissues, and if fertilization occurs, high circulating progesterone levels are important not only for facilitating implantation, but also for maintaining pregnancy by stimulating uterine growth and opposing the actions of factors involved in myometrial contraction.