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Hormones

What Are High Progesterone Symptoms?

Amy Divaraniya
Amy Divaraniya

High progesterone is natural during your menstrual cycle and in the early stages of pregnancy. Here are symptoms to look out for along with situations where high progesterone levels may require professional health care consultation.

Modified On:
October 6, 2025
Published:
Dec 1, 2024
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Published:
Oct 16, 2025
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High progesterone is natural during your menstrual cycle and in the early stages of pregnancy. Here are symptoms to look out for along with situations where high progesterone levels may require professional health care consultation.

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Clinically reviewed by
Shelley Gautam

High progesterone is natural during your menstrual cycle and in the early stages of pregnancy. Here are symptoms to look out for along with situations where high progesterone levels may require professional health care consultation.

High progesterone symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, anxiety, and depression. These symptoms naturally occur during the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle and throughout pregnancy. While usually normal, certain medical conditions or hormone treatments can cause abnormally high progesterone levels requiring medical attention.

Wondering how high progesterone differs from low progesterone? Read our complete comparison guide.

In some cases, progesterone levels can become too low or too high. While naturally high progesterone is usually not a cause for concern, there are certain situations, like medical conditions or hormonal drugs and treatments, that can lead to atypical progesterone levels. Here’s what you need to know about high progesterone symptoms and causes.

When does high progesterone naturally occur?

Progesterone levels increase naturally during the reproductive cycle. In the middle of your menstrual cycle, progesterone thickens the uterine lining.  Want to understand how progesterone changes throughout your entire cycle? Reed the complete guide.

The corpus luteum is responsible for producing progesterone in the body. It’s a temporary gland that supports the early stages of pregnancy if conception occurs until the placenta is formed and takes over progesterone production. If it does not, the corpus luteum breaks down, reducing progesterone output and prompting menstruation.

If conception occurs, progesterone levels continue to climb to help the fertilized egg grow into a fetus. Progesterone levels reach their highest levels in the third trimester (weeks 28 to 40 of pregnancy). 

High progesterone levels therefore occur naturally during pregnancy. The corpus luteum produces progesterone to support the growth of the egg. Progesterone levels protect the pregnancy by reducing uterine contractions and preventing ovulation, which stops menstruation. It also helps your breasts prepare for breastfeeding. Your body will produce around 10 times more progesterone when you’re pregnant than when you’re not.

Natural high progesterone symptoms to look out for

When your progesterone levels rise, you may experience a mix of emotional and physical changes known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, include:

  • Fatigue
  • Bloating
  • Breast tenderness
  • Weight gain
  • Anxiety
  • Depression 

During pregnancy, you may continue to experience PMS symptoms in addition to early pregnancy symptoms, including: 

  • Food cravings
  • Muscle aches
  • Headaches
  • Increased nipple sensitivity

Experiencing opposite symptoms like anxiety and irregular periods? You might have low progesterone instead. Learn more about low progesterone symptoms.

Atypical high progesterone symptoms and causes

While high progesterone levels are typical during pregnancy, there are some times when high progesterone levels are a result of medical issues or hormonal drugs. Here are instances where high progesterone levels may be abnormal, along with their symptoms. 

Hormone therapy

Progesterone levels naturally decrease during perimenopause since you are no longer ovulating. As a result, healthcare professionals might recommend hormone therapy, which increases estrogen and progesterone levels to reduce symptoms of menopause. However, this can cause high progesterone symptoms including:

  • Breast pain
  • Dizziness
  • Rapid weight gain
  • Vaginal bleeding
  • Headache
  • Swelling of feet

MORE: What Are the Signs That You Need Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Hormone contraceptive

Some types of birth control can increase progesterone levels over time. They contain a synthetic form of progesterone called progestin.

The body reacts to progestin in the same way it does to progesterone, which halts ovulation by thickening the uterine lining so that the sperm is unlikely to reach the egg. 

You may experience symptoms such as:

  • Irregular menstrual periods
  • Headaches
  • Breast tenderness
  • Nausea
  • Acne

Ovarian cysts

High progesterone can also be caused by ovarian cysts. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled masses that can produce progesterone and estrogen. In particular, corpus luteum cysts, which grow on the corpus luteum, typically produce high progesterone levels. 

These cysts are usually harmless, painless, and go away on their own. In rare cases, the cysts grow large enough that they interfere with ovary function or pregnancy and may require a healthcare professional to remove them. 

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia 

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a rare inherited genetic disorder. It affects the adrenal glands at the top of the kidneys, which control hormone production like testosterone and cortisol. CAH occurs because the body is missing certain enzymes it needs to produce these hormones, so you may either produce too much or not enough hormones. High progesterone levels can be a sign of late-onset CAH since progesterone cannot be converted into cortisol due to a missing enzyme. 

CAH symptoms include:

  • Irregular menstrual periods
  • Excessive facial or body hair
  • Hair loss
  • Infertility

This condition is not life-threatening, but seek out a healthcare provider for treatment. 

Molar pregnancy

Molar pregnancy occurs when a non-viable, fertilized egg develops into a tumor rather than a fetus. Although the pregnancy is non-viable, the body will treat it as if it were, resulting in progesterone levels rising and the placenta being formed. 

Symptoms of a molar pregnancy include:

  • Nausea
  • Bright red to dark brown vaginal bleeding
  • Pelvic pain
  • Significant vaginal discharge

If molar pregnancy is left untreated, it has a high risk of accelerating into a type of cancer called choriocarcinoma. Reach out to your healthcare provider immediately for treatment.

High progesterone symptoms: The bottom line

High progesterone levels are a natural part of the reproductive system. Progesterone supports regular menstruation and is necessary for the growth of the fertilized egg into a fetus. 

While high progesterone levels typically shouldn’t affect your health, you’ll likely experience PMS symptoms as a result of progesterone levels naturally rising in your menstrual cycle. 

However, there are certain circumstances like hormone therapy, hormonal birth control, or underlying medical conditions that can trigger an increase in progesterone levels. The only way to measure progesterone levels is through a test, either by testing urine and measuring a progesterone metabolite like PdG or a blood test through your doctor. If you experience PMS symptoms outside of your cycle and are not pregnant, it’s important to consult your doctor. 

How to Track Your Progesterone Levels

The only way to know if your progesterone is too high is through testing. Oova's at-home hormone kit lets you:

  • Track daily progesterone levels throughout your cycle
  • See exactly when progesterone rises after ovulation
  • Identify if your symptoms correlate with high progesterone
  • Share quantified data with your healthcare provider

Frequently Asked Questions About High Progesterone

What are the symptoms of high progesterone?

High progesterone symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, anxiety, depression, headaches, and food cravings. During pregnancy, you may also experience increased nipple sensitivity and muscle aches.

Is high progesterone a sign of pregnancy?

Yes, high progesterone is one of the earliest indicators of pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly after conception to support the developing embryo and reach their peak during the third trimester.

Can high progesterone cause weight gain?

Yes, elevated progesterone can cause temporary weight gain through water retention and bloating. This is a normal part of the luteal phase and early pregnancy.

When should I be concerned about high progesterone?

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience high progesterone symptoms outside your luteal phase when not pregnant, or if symptoms include severe pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or rapid weight gain while on hormone therapy.

How do you test progesterone levels?

Progesterone can be measured through blood tests at your doctor's office or at-home urine tests that measure PdG (a progesterone metabolite). Testing is typically done during the luteal phase, about 7 days after ovulation.

Can high progesterone prevent pregnancy?

‍No, high progesterone doesn't prevent pregnancy, in fact, it's essential for maintaining pregnancy. However, if progesterone is abnormally high due to certain medical conditions, it may indicate underlying issues that could affect fertility.

What causes high progesterone when not pregnant?

‍High progesterone when not pregnant can be caused by hormonal birth control, ovarian cysts (especially corpus luteum cysts), congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), or hormone replacement therapy. Testing is needed to determine the cause.

About the author

Amy Divaraniya
Dr. Aparna (Amy) Divaraniya is the Founder and CEO of Oova. She has over 10 years experience working in data science and a PhD in Biomedical Sciences. In 2017, Amy pivoted to women's healthcare after facing her own fertility struggles. Amy started Oova to give women control over their fertility by making high-quality hormone testing more accessible.

Sources

https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I take progesterone if I'm breastfeeding?
Yes, progesterone is generally safe while breastfeeding and doesn't significantly affect milk supply. However, always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any hormone supplementation while nursing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Is it safe to take progesterone throughout pregnancy?
Yes, when prescribed by your healthcare provider. Progesterone supplementation in early pregnancy is safe and can reduce miscarriage risk in women with low progesterone or a history of pregnancy loss. Most providers continue supplementation through the first trimester (weeks 10-12) when the placenta takes over.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can progesterone supplementation cause weight gain?
Progesterone can cause temporary water retention and bloating, which may show up as a few pounds on the scale, but it doesn't cause true fat weight gain. Most women don't experience significant weight changes from progesterone supplementation.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I switch from pills to suppositories or vice versa?
Yes, but only under your doctor's guidance. The dosing and timing may need adjustment when switching between forms since they're absorbed differently. Never switch on your own, especially if you're pregnant or undergoing fertility treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Will progesterone supplementation delay my period?
Yes, progesterone keeps the uterine lining intact, so if you're not pregnant and continue taking progesterone, your period will be delayed. Once you stop taking it, your period should start within 2-10 days. If you are pregnant, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy and you won't get a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Should I take progesterone pills orally or vaginally?
For fertility and pregnancy support, vaginal progesterone is usually preferred because it delivers higher concentrations directly to the uterus. For perimenopause or general hormone balance, oral progesterone often works well and is more convenient. Your doctor will recommend the best route based on your specific needs.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
When should I start taking progesterone after ovulation?
Typically, progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support starts 2-3 days after ovulation (confirmed by LH surge or temperature rise). Your doctor will give you specific timing based on your protocol. Some women start immediately after a positive ovulation test.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
What's better: progesterone cream or pills?
Pills (oral micronized progesterone) are generally more effective and reliable than creams because absorption from creams is inconsistent. For medical conditions like fertility issues, low progesterone, or HRT, prescription pills or suppositories are strongly recommended over over-the-counter creams.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
How can I tell if I have low or high progesterone?
The only definitive way to know is through hormone testing via blood tests or at-home urine tests that measure progesterone metabolites. However, symptom patterns can provide clues: anxiety and irregular periods suggest low progesterone, while bloating and extreme fatigue suggest high progesterone.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
When during my cycle should I test progesterone levels?
Test progesterone levels during the luteal phase, typically 7 days after ovulation or around day 21 of a 28-day cycle. This is when progesterone should be at its peak, making it easier to identify if levels are too low or too high.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the main differences between low and high progesterone symptoms?
Low progesterone typically causes irregular or heavy periods, anxiety, hot flashes, and sleep issues. High progesterone causes bloating, fatigue, intense breast tenderness, and depression-like mood changes. Low progesterone symptoms persist throughout your cycle, while high progesterone symptoms are most intense during the luteal phase.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
Can you have symptoms of both low and high progesterone?
Some symptoms like breast tenderness and mood changes can occur with both low and high progesterone, making it confusing. However, the timing, intensity, and accompanying symptoms differ. Hormone testing is the best way to determine which imbalance you're experiencing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can stress affect 10 DPO symptoms?
Yes, stress can worsen or mimic 10 DPO symptoms. Stress increases cortisol, which can cause cramping, fatigue, and mood changes similar to both PMS and early pregnancy. During the two-week wait, try stress-reduction techniques like gentle exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is it better to test at 10 DPO or wait?
It's better to wait until 12–14 DPO for more accurate results. Testing at 10 DPO often leads to false negatives because hCG levels may still be too low. If you absolutely can't wait, use a sensitive early detection test with first morning urine, and be prepared to retest in 2–3 days if negative.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does implantation bleeding look like at 10 DPO?
Implantation bleeding at 10 DPO is typically light pink or brown, much lighter than a period, and lasts 1–2 days. It's often just spotting when you wipe or a few drops on a panty liner. However, only 15–20% of pregnant women experience implantation bleeding—most don't have any bleeding at all.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Why am I cramping at 10 DPO?
Cramping at 10 DPO can be caused by elevated progesterone (whether you're pregnant or not), implantation (if you're pregnant), or premenstrual cramping. Unfortunately, cramping alone can't tell you if you're pregnant since progesterone causes similar symptoms in both scenarios.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What are the chances of a BFP at 10 DPO?
If you're pregnant, you have about a 50–60% chance of getting a positive test at 10 DPO. This means there's a 40–50% chance of a false negative even if you conceived. Chances improve significantly by 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What DPO is most accurate for pregnancy testing?
14 DPO (the day of your missed period) is the most accurate time to test, with 99% accuracy. 12 DPO offers 80–90% accuracy. 10 DPO has only 50–60% accuracy. For best results, wait as long as you can—ideally until 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is 10 DPO too early to test?
10 DPO is considered early for pregnancy testing. While some women get positives at 10 DPO, accuracy is only 50–60% if you're pregnant. For best results, wait until 12 DPO (80–90% accuracy) or 14 DPO/missed period (99% accuracy).
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you have implantation at 10 DPO?
Yes, implantation can still occur at 10 DPO, though 84% of women have already implanted by this point. Late implantation at 10–12 DPO is normal. If implantation happens at 10 DPO, you won't get a positive pregnancy test for another 2–3 days.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does a negative test at 10 DPO mean?
A negative test at 10 DPO does not mean you're not pregnant. It's very common to get negatives at 10 DPO even if you conceived. Your hCG levels may still be too low, or implantation may have occurred later. Wait until 12–14 DPO to retest for more accurate results.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you get a positive pregnancy test at 10 DPO?
Yes, but only about 50–60% of pregnant women will get a positive at 10 DPO. The other 40–50% have hCG levels that are still too low to detect. If you test negative at 10 DPO, wait 2–3 days and test again.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Can high progesterone cause weight gain?
Yes, elevated progesterone can cause temporary weight gain through water retention and bloating. This is a normal part of the luteal phase and early pregnancy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Does stress affect estrogen levels?
Yes, chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can suppress estrogen production and disrupt hormonal balance. Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, adequate sleep, and self-care practices helps maintain optimal estrogen levels.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
When should I consider medical treatment for low estrogen?
Consider medical intervention if natural methods don't improve symptoms after 3 months, if symptoms severely impact quality of life, if you're experiencing early menopause (before 40), or if you have fertility concerns. Hormone replacement therapy may be appropriate in these cases.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What are the signs that my estrogen is increasing?
Signs of rising estrogen include more regular menstrual cycles, reduced hot flashes, improved vaginal lubrication, better mood stability, increased energy, and improved skin elasticity. You may also notice reduced symptoms that originally indicated low estrogen.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Can exercise increase estrogen levels?
Yes, moderate exercise stimulates estrogen release and helps maintain hormonal balance. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio weekly plus strength training twice per week. However, excessive exercise can actually lower estrogen, so balance is key.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
How long does it take to increase estrogen naturally?
With consistent dietary and lifestyle changes, you may notice improvements in symptoms within 4-8 weeks. However, significant hormonal changes typically take 2-3 months. Tracking your cycle and symptoms can help you monitor progress.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What foods increase estrogen levels naturally?
Foods high in phytoestrogens can help increase estrogen naturally. The best options include flax seeds (high in lignans), soy products (tofu, tempeh, edamame), lentils, chickpeas, whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice), and garlic. These plant compounds mimic estrogen's effects in the body.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What helps relieve hot flashes quickly?
Cool environments, layered clothing, herbal teas, and medical treatments like gabapentin or HRT may help—depending on severity. Lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine and alcohol can also provide relief.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Are there tests to confirm perimenopause?
Yes. Tests measuring estradiol, LH, and FSH levels can indicate hormonal shifts—but diagnosis is often symptom-based since hormone levels fluctuate widely during perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
How do I know it's perimenopause and not something else?
A doctor may recommend hormone testing (like LH, E3G, and PdG) and track symptom timing. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms combined with age and menstrual pattern changes.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What's the earliest age perimenopause can start?
Some women begin experiencing symptoms as early as their mid-30s, though perimenopause typically starts between ages 38-45.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Does perimenopause affect mental clarity?
Yes. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating are common during hormone fluctuations in perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What happens after the last sign of perimenopause?
After your final period, you enter postmenopause. You'll need 12 consecutive months without a period to confirm menopause. Many symptoms gradually improve, though some like vaginal dryness may persist without treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
When do perimenopause symptoms finally stop?
Some symptoms like brain fog improve after menopause, while others like hot flashes may continue for up to 10 years post-menopause. Vaginal symptoms often persist or worsen without treatment. Each person's timeline is different.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Is high progesterone a sign of pregnancy?
Yes, high progesterone is one of the earliest indicators of pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly after conception to support the developing embryo and reach their peak during the third trimester.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Can you still get pregnant in late perimenopause?
Yes, you can still get pregnant during perimenopause as long as you're having periods, even if they're infrequent. Continue using birth control until you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period and have officially reached menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Do symptoms get worse before perimenopause ends?
Yes, most perimenopause symptoms intensify in the final 1-2 years before menopause. Hot flashes peak around your final period, vaginal symptoms worsen, and mood changes increase. However, brain fog typically improves in late perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
How long does late perimenopause last?
Late perimenopause typically lasts 1-3 years before your final period. However, the exact duration varies significantly from person to person. You've reached menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the symptoms of high progesterone?
High progesterone symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, anxiety, depression, headaches, and food cravings. During pregnancy, you may also experience increased nipple sensitivity and muscle aches.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What are the first signs that perimenopause is ending?
The earliest signs include longer gaps between periods (60+ days), intensifying hot flashes that peak around your final period, and worsening vaginal dryness. These symptoms typically increase in late perimenopause before you reach official menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
When should I be concerned about high progesterone?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience high progesterone symptoms outside your luteal phase when not pregnant, or if symptoms include severe pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or rapid weight gain while on hormone therapy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
How do you test progesterone levels?
Progesterone can be measured through blood tests at your doctor's office or at-home urine tests that measure PdG (a progesterone metabolite). Testing is typically done during the luteal phase, about 7 days after ovulation.

About the Oova Blog:
‍Our content is developed with a commitment to high editorial standards and reliability. We prioritize referencing reputable sources and sharing where our insights come from. The Oova Blog is intended for informational purposes only and is never a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any health decisions.

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