progesterone Archives

If you’ve been digging into hormone optimization lately, you might’ve come across some surprising (and misleading) advice about men and progesterone. Between online forums and one-size-fits-all treatment plans, there’s a growing wave of confusion.

One of the more concerning health trends we’ve seen lately? Men being told to take progesterone.

Yes, progesterone, the hormone best known for supporting pregnancy in women. Some men are getting tested, seeing “low” numbers, and assuming it needs to be raised. But progesterone has no business being in a man’s supplement or treatment plan, and we’re here to explain why.

We recently sat down with Dr. Lauren Fitz and Kristi Hales on the Women Want Strong Men podcast to discuss why progesterone is not only unnecessary, but potentially dangerous for men. Check it out below, then keep reading for more on why you should avoid this hormone.

What is Progesterone? Why Do Women Need It, But Not Men?

Let’s start with the basics. Progesterone is a pro-gestational hormone, which means its primary role is to support fertility and pregnancy. It’s naturally produced in large amounts in women, particularly during the second half of the menstrual cycle and during pregnancy.

Men have trace amounts of progesterone, but it serves little to no functional purpose in the male endocrine system. Those low levels are normal, natural, and necessary—they don’t need to be fixed or “optimized.”

Unlike testosterone, which fuels energy, libido, muscle mass, and mood in men, progesterone plays no supportive role in men’s health. When it’s added in through supplementation, it can throw your system way out of balance. In the next section, we’ll explain why.

Why Progesterone Is Dangerous for Men

While men naturally produce small amounts of progesterone—and that’s completely normal—taking progesterone as a supplement can actually work against your health goals. Unlike what some misguided advice might suggest, supplementing with progesterone can interfere with key functions like testosterone production, blood flow, and metabolism.

It’s one of the few hormones where the potential downsides far outweigh any perceived benefits, and most men have no idea what they’re walking into when they start taking it. Let’s take a closer look at why progesterone is dangerous for men.

Side Effects of Progesterone in Men

When men take progesterone, they may experience:

Inflammation – Progesterone raises inflammatory markers in men, which increases the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions.
Cardiovascular risk – According to pharmacist Kristi Hales, it can directly raise your risk of a major cardiovascular event.
Metabolic dysfunction – Supplementing progesterone can worsen blood sugar regulation and increase body fat, especially around the midsection.
Hormonal suppression – It can suppress testosterone production, worsening symptoms of low T rather than fixing them.
Mood and energy crashes – Many men feel more fatigued, emotionally flat, or even depressed after taking progesterone.

Progesterone and Erectile Dysfunction

If you’re taking progesterone and wondering why your libido disappeared—it’s probably because progesterone kills the male sex drive. In fact, it was once used as a chemical castration tool in prisons. As Kristi Hales pointed out on the Women Want Strong Men podcast, “If you want to cash in on a man’s life insurance policy, give him progesterone.”

Along with suppressing libido, progesterone can also cause erectile dysfunction by interfering with nitric oxide and testosterone pathways.

Sure, some guys report deeper sleep from progesterone, but that’s not worth sacrificing your sex drive or cardiovascular health. There are safer, more effective ways to support sleep (like melatonin, diet changes, or optimizing testosterone).

Progesterone & Hormone Forums: Misinformation Alert

A quick browse through TRT forums or online male hormone groups will show just how common the misinformation is. Men are testing progesterone levels, seeing that they’re “low,” and assuming they need to raise them. But guess what?

Progesterone is supposed to be low in men.

It’s not something that needs to be “brought into range.” Measuring it can be misleading, and supplementing it based on numbers alone is risky business. Worse, some hormone academies and lesser-known training programs are still recommending it, despite the lack of evidence and growing list of harmful side effects.

As Dr. Lauren Fitz and Kristi Hales emphasized on the podcast: if your healthcare provider is recommending progesterone for men, that’s a red flag. It shows a serious lack of understanding of male hormone physiology.

Why You Should Avoid Progesterone Supplements at All Costs

Let’s be clear: no reputable hormone specialist or evidence-based clinic will ever recommend progesterone to a man. If you’re working with someone who’s pushing it—or you’re seeing it recommended in a Facebook group or Reddit thread—it’s time to run the other way.

The risks aren’t just theoretical. Supplementing progesterone as a man can:

Worsen your testosterone levels
Cause sexual dysfunction
Increase your risk of heart attack or stroke
Leave you feeling foggy, inflamed, and fatigued

There are zero clinical benefits and plenty of potential downsides. There’s simply no upside here—progesterone has no role in male hormone optimization.

So, How Do I Improve My Health as a Man?

“If progesterone isn’t the answer…what is?” Don’t worry, there are powerful, proven ways to support your hormones, energy, libido, and overall well-being without putting your health at risk.

At Victory Men’s Health, we take a holistic, science-backed approach to hormone optimization. That means focusing on what actually works based on real labs, clinical research, and years of experience helping men feel like themselves again.

Here are some of the ways you can improve your health (without progesterone):

Optimize testosterone – Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can dramatically improve mood, strength, libido, and stamina if your levels are low.
Support thyroid function – Thyroid plays a major role in metabolism and energy, and many providers miss the mark by not testing Free T3.
Lower visceral fat – Excess visceral fat raises inflammation and crushes hormone health. It’s most accurately measured with a DEXA scan, but the InBody scales in our clinics also quantify visceral fat, making it easy to track your progress over time.
Clean up your lifestyle – Diet, sleep, exercise, and removing endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can significantly improve hormone balance.
Work with a qualified provider – Partner with providers who understand male hormones, track real labs, and customize your care, like our team.

Men & Progesterone: What Our Patients Ask

Is Progesterone Ever Safe for Men to Take?

No. There’s no known clinical benefit for men supplementing progesterone. The risks far outweigh any potential use, including increased inflammation and suppressed testosterone.

Why Are Some Providers Still Prescribing It?

Some hormone academies or outdated training programs still recommend progesterone for men, but the science doesn’t support it. If your provider suggests it, get a second opinion.

What Are Signs I’ve Been Negatively Affected by Progesterone?

Loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, mood changes, or unexplained inflammation could all be side effects. If you’re a man taking progesterone, stop supplementation and start questioning your provider.

Can Progesterone Lower Testosterone?

Yes. Progesterone can suppress the body’s production of testosterone, leading to worsened symptoms of low T and hormonal imbalance.

What’s the Right Approach for Men Over 40 with Hormone Issues?

A personalized plan that goes beyond just testosterone. Men often need to optimize multiple hormones affected by age-related decline—including DHEA, pregnenolone, melatonin, and testosterone (which also impacts estradiol and DHT levels).

The most effective approach combines comprehensive hormone support, metabolic testing, and lifestyle improvements, designed by a provider who specializes in men’s health.

Get Real Answers About Your Hormones

Don’t fall for the hype, forums, or misguided protocols. Progesterone is not the hormone you’ve been missing. It’s also not the solution to your fatigue, low libido, or sleep issues. At Victory Men’s Health, we help men get real answers with advanced testing, hormone therapy, and personalized treatment plans crafted by a team that actually understands male physiology.

No dangerous trends or unnecessary supplements, just science-backed care that helps you feel strong, sharp, and in control again. Ready to get real answers about your hormones so you can start feeling like the best version of yourself?

Hormones can feel like a mystery—especially when it comes to the women in our lives. You might have noticed your wife, girlfriend, or mom isn’t quite herself lately. Maybe she seems extra tired, emotional, or stressed. While it’s easy to chalk it up to being “just life,” these could also be low progesterone symptoms if there’s a hormonal balance.

Luckily, low progesterone is manageable with the right care. Recognizing that something feels “off” and encouraging her to explore what’s behind it can be a huge act of love and support. This isn’t about fixing anything for her—it’s about being a teammate in her health journey. So, let’s dive into what low progesterone is, how to spot it, and what you can do about it.

low progesterone symptoms | Victory Men's Health

What Is Progesterone?

Progesterone is one of the most important hormones in a woman’s body, particularly when it comes to reproductive health and overall hormonal balance. It’s produced primarily in the ovaries after ovulation, and its levels fluctuate throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle.

Here’s a closer look at what progesterone does for women:

Supports pregnancy – Progesterone helps prepare the uterus for a fertilized egg and maintains a healthy pregnancy.
Balances hormones – It helps oppose estrogen, ensuring proper balance. Without enough of it in relation to estrogen, women may experience issues like increased bleeding, cramping, breast tenderness, and more pronounced PMS symptoms.
Stabilizes mood – Progesterone has a calming effect on the brain and plays a role in reducing anxiety and promoting restful sleep.
Regulates cycles – It’s essential for a regular menstrual cycle and healthy ovulation.

When progesterone levels are too low, women may experience physical, emotional, and hormonal imbalances that disrupt their daily lives.

What Causes Low Progesterone?

Low progesterone is often the result of factors beyond a woman’s control. Common causes include:

Chronic Stress – When the body is under constant stress, it prioritizes the production of cortisol over progesterone. This hormonal imbalance can leave progesterone levels depleted.

Aging or Menopause – As women age, progesterone naturally declines, especially during perimenopause and menopause. This drop can exacerbate symptoms like mood swings, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.

Nutrient Deficiencies – Overexercise or a poor diet lacking in key nutrients like magnesium, vitamin B6, and zinc can impair progesterone production.

Certain Medications or Medical Conditions – Birth control pills, thyroid disorders, and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can contribute to low progesterone levels.

What Are the Low Progesterone Symptoms in Women?

It’s easy to think that hormonal imbalances only affect women directly, but the truth is, they can also ripple into the lives of those around them. You might notice that she’s more tired, irritable, or just doesn’t seem like herself. These changes can strain relationships if they’re not addressed.

Here are some common symptoms of low progesterone to watch for:

Irregular or heavy periods
Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
Fatigue or low-energy
Trouble sleeping or insomnia
Weight gain or bloating
Headaches or migraines
Difficulty conceiving or increased risk of miscarriage

How Do You Fix Low Progesterone?

The first step in addressing low progesterone is confirming it through a hormone test. Once your levels are measured, a healthcare provider can suggest the best course of action. Treatment options for low progesterone symptoms in women include:

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
Lifestyle Changes
Natural Remedies
Working with a Specialist

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

BHRT is one of the most effective ways to restore progesterone levels. This therapy uses hormones that are identical to the ones our bodies naturally produce, ensuring they’re well-tolerated and effective.

Progesterone is typically delivered as oral capsules or troches (sublingual waxy tablets), with treatment tailored to each individual’s specific needs. Many women notice a major improvement in symptoms shortly after starting BHRT. This could mean better sleep, improved mood, and more regular cycles.

Lifestyle Changes

Sometimes, small changes can make a big difference. For women with PCOS, addressing weight management can significantly improve symptoms, including low progesterone levels. Weight loss has been shown to enhance hormone balance and overall health.

Women may consider discussing options like GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide, with their healthcare provider. These medications support weight loss and have also been linked to improved fertility in women with PCOS.

Natural Remedies

For women looking for more natural solutions, herbal supplements like chasteberry (vitex) are often used to support progesterone production. Adaptogenic herbs, such as ashwagandha, can also help balance stress hormones, which in turn supports progesterone levels.

These remedies may take longer to show results compared to medical treatments, and won’t be effective for menopause-related progesterone deficiency. However, depending on your situation, they can be a good starting point or complement to other therapies.

Working with a Specialist

Navigating hormonal health can feel overwhelming, which is why working with a healthcare provider is so important. These experts can provide personalized care, explain test results, and recommend a combination of treatments that address your unique needs.

At Victory Men’s Health, we specialize in creating customized treatment plans that ensure the best possible outcomes. Once we know what’s going on, we can create a clear path forward to feeling better and getting back on track.

Common Questions About Low Progesterone in Women

How do you test for low progesterone?

Testing typically involves a blood test to measure hormone levels. Timing is crucial—tests are often done mid-cycle (around day 21) when progesterone should peak. However, depending on your symptoms and other history, your provider may want to test your hormones at a different time. It’s always best to check first for a better understanding of the timing.

Can low progesterone affect fertility?

Yes, low progesterone can make it harder to conceive and increase the risk of miscarriage. Progesterone supports implantation and helps maintain a healthy pregnancy.

Is it expensive to treat low progesterone?

The cost varies depending on the treatment, but many options, including BHRT and natural remedies, are affordable. Working with a trusted provider like Victory Men’s Health ensures the best value for personalized, safe, and effective care.

Can men have low progesterone?

Yes, men produce small amounts of progesterone, which helps balance other hormones like testosterone. However, low levels are less common and typically not as impactful as in women.

What is the best treatment for low progesterone?

The best treatment depends on the individual. BHRT is highly effective, but lifestyle changes and natural remedies can also make a significant difference. Consulting with a healthcare provider is the best way to determine the right approach for you.

Take Control of Your Hormone Health Today

Low progesterone can disrupt lives and relationships, but with the right support, women can restore balance and feel like themselves again. If you or someone you care about is struggling with symptoms of a hormonal imbalance, we’re here to help. From hormonal replacement therapy to weight loss to ED, our team can help you reclaim your health and well-being.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward restoring balance and living stronger, healthier, and happier.

Tag: progesterone

Men & Progesterone: Why You Should Avoid This Hormone Like the Plague