The underestimated hormone for men
Progesterone is often known only as a "female hormone," but it also plays a central role in the male body. It is produced in the testicles and adrenal glands and is a precursor hormone to testosterone, cortisol, and other steroid hormones. A balanced progesterone level helps men stabilize their stress regulation, sleep quality, libido, and prostate function .
If progesterone levels drop, for example due to chronic stress, being overweight or with age, this can lead to a hormonal shift that promotes testosterone deficiency and increases estrogen.
What is progesterone?
Progesterone is a C21 steroid hormone found in small amounts in the male body. It is produced from pregnenolone and is itself a building block for:
- testosterone
- Cortisol (stress hormone)
- DHEA (energy and metabolism)
- Aldosterone (blood pressure regulation)
Functions of progesterone in the male body:
- Regulates aromatase activity (preventing too much estrogen)
- Supports the sleep-wake cycle
- Protects the prostate from overgrowth.
- Acts as a natural serotonin modulator (mood balance)
- Does it affect the immune system ?
- Promotes stress resistance
Symptoms of progesterone deficiency
Low progesterone levels in men are not uncommon, but are often overlooked. They frequently occur in conjunction with low testosterone or elevated estrogen.
Possible signs:
- Mood swings, inner restlessness
- Irritability, sleep problems
- Loss of libido, erection problems
- Fluid retention (especially in the face or abdomen)
- Breast tenderness, gynecomastia
- Increased body fat percentage despite exercise
- Prostate problems (e.g., frequent urination)
Low stress resistance or severe exhaustion after exertion can also be related to progesterone, especially if cortisol is also out of balance.
Causes of low progesterone levels
- Chronic stress → Cortisol “consumes” progesterone
- Increasing age (progesterone levels measurably decrease from age 40 onwards)
- High estrogen levels due to aromatase activity
- Liver failure → poor estrogen metabolism
- Lack of sleep or sleep disorders
- Hormonal imbalances in testosterone or DHEA
- Certain medications (e.g., opioids, antidepressants)
How is progesterone measured?
Progesterone can be measured in serum or saliva , usually as part of a comprehensive hormone analysis. The normal range is significantly lower than in women; nevertheless, men with symptoms or undergoing hormone therapy should have their levels checked regularly .
In combination with:
- Testosterone (total and free)
- Estradiol (E2)
- DHEA and cortisol
- SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin)
- possibly prolactin
A well-balanced hormone panel provides a clear picture of hormonal balance.
What can help normalize progesterone levels?
In many cases, progesterone levels can be stabilized through targeted lifestyle changes; in other cases, gentle hormone modulation (under medical supervision) may be beneficial.
Possible approaches:
- Reduce stress: Improve sleep, reduce strain
- Support liver function : Bitter substances, reduce alcohol
- Zinc, magnesium & vitamin B6: Support progesterone production
- Reduces body fat: Reduces aromatase activity
- If necessary, bioidentical progesterone in a low dose (only under medical supervision)
Important: Progesterone creams from the internet or self-medication are not recommended; incorrect dosage can lead to hormonal imbalances or side effects.
Conclusion
Progesterone is an important, often underestimated hormone in the male body . It acts as an antagonist to estrogen, as a precursor to testosterone and cortisol, and influences sleep, libido, mood, and prostate function.
If you frequently feel irritable, lacking energy, or hormonally "out of balance," it's worth taking a closer look at your progesterone status, especially in combination with testosterone and estrogen.
