Menopause Hormones 101 — Part Two Progesterone: the other half of the hormone story

Progesterone is often the first hormone to decline during perimenopause, long before estrogen levels fully drop. This early hormonal shift can contribute to common symptoms such as sleep disturbances, mood changes, irregular periods, and heavier bleeding. Beyond its well-known role in protecting the uterine lining during hormone therapy, progesterone also influences sleep, brain function, bone health, and overall hormonal balance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the differences between bioidentical progesterone and synthetic progestins, their benefits and risks, how they affect breast cancer and cardiovascular health, and what every woman should know when considering hormone therapy during perimenopause and menopause.