Pregnancy is anything but calming. You can laugh one minute, but cry the next over little things. The mood changes every day, thanks to all these pregnancy hormones. Your mind may never rest with everything that is going on in your body. The body aches, emotional ups and downs, and hormonal changes can feel overwhelming.



But progesterone is different. It calms your senses when everything else is in a frenzy.



What Is Progesterone and Why Is It Important in Pregnancy?Progesterone is a crucial hormone of pregnancy. Your ovaries produce progesterone, but the placenta takes over the production when you are pregnant. Its name means "pro-gestation," meaning in favour of pregnancy. The levels rise rapidly in early pregnancy from around 1 nanogram per millilitre (ng/mL) to over 40 ng/mL by the end of the first trimester. It helps your body in the following ways:

• Prepares your uterus for the growing baby
• Supports the development of the placenta
• Relaxes muscles (such as those in the uterus) to prevent early contractions
• Balances other pregnancy hormones like oestrogen

The role of progesterone extends beyond physical changes, as it also affects your mood.



How Does Progesterone Help You Feel Calm?Progesterone reacts with your brain receptors to help you relax and reduce anxiety. It forms a byproduct called allopregnanolone after its release. It acts on the brain’s GABA receptors (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid receptors). These are the same receptors that help you feel calm. In other words, progesterone overtakes the anxiety response to help you feel peaceful, despite the changes happening in your body.



Why Do You Still Feel Emotional If Progesterone Is a Calming Hormone?Although progesterone calms your system, the rapid fluctuations in your hormone levels can cause emotional instability. You may feel happy one moment and cry the next. This is completely normal, and it indicates that your body is adapting to the changes in your hormone levels.



Your emotions may feel more intense due to a lack of sleep, morning sickness, or the thought of upcoming changes. You may still have a mix of feelings because progesterone also works alongside other hormones.



What Happens If Progesterone Levels Are Low?Low progesterone levels can impact your mood and your pregnancy as well. Your body may exhibit signs when there is insufficient progesterone.

• Mood swings or high anxiety
• Fatigue and difficulty sleeping
• Early spotting or bleeding
• Risk of miscarriage in early pregnancy (in rare cases)

Your doctor may recommend a test if they suspect low levels during the early stages of pregnancy. They may prescribe supplements to support a healthy pregnancy.



Can Progesterone Help with Sleep During Pregnancy?The role of progesterone in promoting sleep is subtle. You may feel sleepy in early pregnancy because it relaxes your muscles and calms the nervous system. These feelings are intense during the first trimester because the levels rise very quickly. It is also a way for your body to encourage rest while your baby grows.



The physical changes that occur during pregnancy in the later stages can disrupt your sleep. You can still benefit from the progesterone’s natural calming effects by maintaining a bedtime routine and reducing screen time before bed.



What Can You Do to Support Progesterone Levels Naturally?The following guide can help you take the right steps towards your health.

• Eat foods rich in vitamin B6, magnesium, and zinc (found in bananas, leafy greens, and nuts).
• Quality sleep is essential for your body to produce hormones, so follow a consistent bedtime routine.
• Practice breathing exercises, gentle yoga, or meditation to stay calm.
• Stop smoking or drinking alcohol to maintain your hormone balance.
• Be active to improve blood circulation, but with gentle exercises.

What To Do Next: A Quick Checklist

• Track your feelings daily.
• Share mood or sleep changes with your doctor.
• Eat a balanced diet and get regular rest.
• Practice calming activities, such as prenatal yoga or deep breathing.
• Stay connected with loved ones for emotional support.

Emotional & Social AspectsYour emotions may feel more intense during pregnancy, which is a normal experience. Please do not dismiss them, but remind yourself about the incredible work your body is doing right now to grow a new life.



Talk about your feelings. Find a friend who also had a similar experience during pregnancy. It will make you feel less alone. Share your feelings with your partner. After all, they are also a part of this pregnancy journey. A small talk or a walk together can improve your mood. Your environment is equally important for a positive mental state.



Progesterone supports your uterus and placenta, soothing your brain and promoting emotional connection. These roles have made it truly earn its title as the “calming hormone” of pregnancy. Remember to be kind to yourself, and let progesterone work to help you feel calm.



Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.



FAQs on Why Progesterone Is Called the “Calming Hormone” of Pregnancy?

When do progesterone levels rise the most during pregnancy?

The levels rise steadily as your pregnancy progresses and reach the highest levels during the third trimester. The placenta produces progesterone after the first trimester.

Can low progesterone cause mood swings or anxiety?

Hormones can significantly impact your mood, and progesterone is no exception. Low levels may cause anxiety, irritability, or affect your general mood. If your emotions significantly impact your daily life, you may want to discuss this with your doctor.

How can I naturally manage stress during pregnancy?

Managing stress involves simple changes over time to see the difference. It can include starting deep breathing practices, engaging in light exercise, eating healthy foods, and getting regular sleep.