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Low vs. High Progesterone Symptoms: What's the Difference?

Zoe Kaplan
Zoe Kaplan

Both types of progesterone imbalances can lead to a range of physical, emotional, and cycle-related symptoms. So how can you tell the difference between high vs. low progesterone? Here’s your go-to guide.

Modified On:
October 23, 2025
Published:
Jan 25, 2025
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Published:
Oct 27, 2025
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Both types of progesterone imbalances can lead to a range of physical, emotional, and cycle-related symptoms. So how can you tell the difference between high vs. low progesterone? Here’s your go-to guide.

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Clinically reviewed by
Shelley Gautam

Both types of progesterone imbalances can lead to a range of physical, emotional, and cycle-related symptoms. So how can you tell the difference between high vs. low progesterone? Here’s your go-to guide.

Low progesterone causes irregular periods, anxiety, hot flashes, and difficulty conceiving. High progesterone causes bloating, fatigue, breast tenderness, and mood changes. While some symptoms overlap, understanding the key differences helps you identify which imbalance you're experiencing and when to seek treatment. 

Progesterone helps regulate your menstrual cycle and supports pregnancy, and having the right balance is crucial for your overall health. Whether you're trying to conceive or just want to understand your body better, knowing the signs of progesterone imbalance can help you advocate for your health.

Progesterone helps regulate your menstrual cycle and supports pregnancy and having the right balance progesterone is crucial for your overall health. For example, low progesterone can lead to irregular cycles, fatigue, decreased libido and difficulty conceiving. High progesterone naturally occurs during pregnancy, but if you’re not pregnant, it can lead to increased PMS symptoms, irregular periods, and more.

Whether you're trying to conceive or just want to understand your body better, knowing the signs of progesterone imbalance can help you advocate for your health. In this guide, we’ll go over low vs. high progesterone symptoms and what they might mean for you.

What is progesterone?

While progesterone is often referred to as the “pregnancy hormone,” it’s important whether or not you’re trying to conceive. After ovulation, your ovaries produce progesterone to prepare your uterus for potential pregnancy. If fertilization occurs, progesterone continues to rise to help maintain the pregnancy. If no egg is fertilized, progesterone levels drop and trigger your period.

Progesterone is like a conductor in an orchestra, it keeps your cycle in rhythm and your body’s functions working together. When levels are too high or too low, you might notice various symptoms as your body tries to adjust.

Need more detailed information?

What causes progesterone imbalance?

Before we go into specific low vs. high progesterone symptoms, it’s helpful to understand why your levels might become imbalanced in the first place. 

Your progesterone levels naturally fluctuate throughout your menstrual cycle—that’s normal and healthy! However, sometimes these fluctuations can become more extreme or irregular than they should be.

What causes low progesterone?

Low progesterone can happen at any stage of your reproductive years. Your body needs several systems to work together to properly produce adequate progesterone, from your brain signaling your ovaries and your ovaries releasing an egg to the remaining follicle (also known as the corpus luteum) producing the hormone.

If any part of that system is disrupted, it can lead to lower progesterone levels.

Causes of low progesterone include: 

  • Anovulation: these are cycles when you don’t ovulate. Without ovulation, the corpus luteum doesn’t form, which leads to low progesterone production. There are multiple reasons for anovulatory cycles, from stress and excessive exercise to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and luteal phase defect. 
  • Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): this is a condition that causes hormone imbalances (including progesterone imbalances) that affect ovarian function. 
  • High levels of stress: prolonged periods of stress can interfere with your body’s hormone production and regulation. Stress triggers the release of cortisol, which can affect your body’s progesterone receptors.
  • Hormone imbalances: fluctuations in other hormones can impact your progesterone levels. For example, estrogen dominance, where estrogen is higher than other hormones, can lead to lower progesterone levels. 
  • Age-related changes: As you approach perimenopause, progesterone production naturally declines.

Oova’s hormone test kit can help you understand your hormone levels and whether you have low progesterone. These results can be shared immediately with your provider to help you understand why you may have low progesterone and how to navigate this imbalance. 

What causes high progesterone?

Low progesterone may be a more common worry, but high levels of progesterone can also affect your health and how you feel. Some causes of high progesterone are totally normal and healthy like pregnancy, while others might signal that something needs attention. 

Causes of high progesterone include: 

  • Pregnancy: during pregnancy, progesterone levels rise to help maintain the pregnancy and support fetal development.
  • Hormonal birth control: some types of birth control contain synthetic progesterone called progestin, which can increase progesterone levels over time. 
  • Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH): CAH is a rare inherited genetic disorder that affects your adrenal glands, which control hormone production. When you have CAH, your body is missing certain enzymes it needs to produce hormones, which can lead to either too high or too low hormone levels. 
  • Ovarian cysts: Ovarian cysts, particularly ones that grow on the corpus luteum, can produce high levels of progesterone and estrogen. These are usually harmless, but may grow large enough that they interfere with your body’s natural functions and need to be removed.

Low progesterone vs. high progesterone symptoms

Understanding the difference between low vs. high progesterone symptoms can be tricky because some of these symptoms overlap — not only with each other, but also with other hormonal imbalances or health conditions! 

First, let’s start with how and when these symptoms show up during your cycle. With low progesterone, you’ll often notice symptoms throughout your cycle, and they may be most noticeable after ovulation when progesterone should be highest. With high progesterone, you’ll likely notice symptoms throughout your cycle, but they might be most noticeable in your luteal phase and feel similar to intense PMS symptoms.

Low progesterone symptoms include:

  • Anxiety or mood changes
  • Breast tenderness
  • Difficulty getting or staying pregnant
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Headaches or migraines
  • Hot flashes 
  • Irregular or heavy periods
  • Spotting between periods
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Weight gain

High progesterone symptoms include:

  • Acne breakouts
  • Bloating and water retention
  • Breast tenderness
  • Changes in appetite
  • Changes in body temperature (usually feeling warmer than usual)
  • Fatigue or drowsiness
  • Mild dizziness
  • Mood changes or depression
  • More frequent urination
  • Slow digestion

Key differences in low vs. high progesterone symptoms 

Now that you have a whole list of symptoms of each imbalance, what are the similarities and differences?

  • Menstrual symptoms: low progesterone typically causes irregular or heavy periods, while high progesterone might make your periods lighter, but cause more PMS symptoms. 
  • Mood effects: Low progesterone tends to cause anxiety and restlessness, while high progesterone is more associated with feelings of depression and fatigue.
  • Physical symptoms: While both can cause breast tenderness, high progesterone typically causes more intense breast changes and bloating. Low progesterone is more likely to cause hot flashes and sleep disturbances.

Progesterone imbalance symptoms: how to find relief

If you’re experiencing symptoms of low vs. high progesterone, there are steps you can take to find relief. 

Tracking your symptoms

Tracking your symptoms throughout your cycle can help you identify patterns. Some symptoms might appear cyclically, while others might be more constant. 

Low progesterone symptoms might be consistent throughout your cycle or worsen as you approach your period. High progesterone symptoms typically intensify after ovulation and improve once your period starts.

Track both your hormone levels and symptoms from the comfort of your own home with Oova. The Oova Kit tracks your progesterone throughout your cycle, giving you quantified daily data instead of guesswork. You'll see exactly when progesterone rises after ovulation, whether it's in a healthy range, and how it correlates with your symptoms. Unlike generic apps that assume you're "average," Oova learns YOUR unique hormone patterns, essential for anyone with irregular cycles, PCOS, or perimenopause.

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle changes can also help you regulate uncomfortable progesterone imbalance symptoms, like:

  • Maintaining a regular exercise routine (but avoiding over-exercising)
  • Practicing stress-reduction techniques
  • Getting adequate sleep
  • Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients
  • Reducing caffeine intake
  • Staying hydrated

When to see a healthcare provider

You may want to consider seeing a healthcare provider if:

  • Symptoms are severe or interfering with daily life
  • You're having trouble conceiving
  • You have very irregular periods
  • You experience frequent spotting
  • You have concerns about your hormone levels

Tracking your symptoms and sharing this information with your healthcare provider can help determine the best course of action.

Get Answers, Not Guesses

If you're experiencing symptoms of progesterone imbalance, the first step is understanding your symptoms and how they are fluctuating. The Oova Kit helps you track: 

  • Daily quantified progesterone measurements (not just "high" or "low")
  • Personalized insights based on YOUR cycle, not generic averages
  • Data you can share with your doctor for faster diagnosis
  • Tracking over time to monitor if lifestyle changes or treatments are working

Whether you're dealing with anxiety and irregular periods or bloating and fatigue, Oova helps you identify if progesterone imbalance is the cause and gives your healthcare provider the data they need to help you.

Low vs. high progesterone symptoms: the bottom line

Progesterone plays a vital role in your reproductive health, and imbalances can affect how you feel throughout your cycle. 

While some variation in progesterone levels is normal, persistent symptoms might indicate an underlying issue that needs attention. If you're concerned about your progesterone levels, tracking your symptoms and working with a healthcare provider can help you develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Whether your progesterone levels are high or low, understanding your symptoms and how they relate to hormonal fluctuations is key. With proper support and treatment, many people with progesterone imbalances can find ways to manage their symptoms effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my progesterone is low or high?

The only way to know for certain is through testing via blood tests from your healthcare provider or at-home hormone testing with Oova. Symptoms alone can't definitively diagnose an imbalance since many overlap with other hormonal conditions.

What's the main difference between low and high progesterone symptoms?

Low progesterone causes anxiety, restlessness, and irregular or heavy periods. High progesterone causes fatigue, drowsiness, and lighter periods with intense PMS symptoms like bloating.

Can stress cause low progesterone?

Yes, chronic stress almost always lowers progesterone because your body prioritizes making cortisol over progesterone. High cortisol levels also interfere with progesterone receptors and can disrupt ovulation.

Can I have low progesterone and still get pregnant?

Yes, but it may be more challenging and there's an increased risk of early miscarriage. Many people with low progesterone successfully conceive with treatment like progesterone supplements or ovulation medications.

How long does it take to balance progesterone levels?

It depends on the cause and treatment—progesterone supplementation may improve symptoms within 1-2 cycles, while lifestyle changes typically take 3-6 months. Treating underlying conditions like PCOS may take 6-12 months.

Can perimenopause cause low progesterone?

Yes, perimenopause is one of the most common causes because ovulation becomes less consistent and the corpus luteum produces less progesterone. This commonly causes heavier periods, worsening PMS, sleep issues, and increased anxiety.

About the author

Zoe Kaplan
Zoe Kaplan is a writer and content strategist passionate about creating content that helps people navigate the world a little more easily. Zoe has worked across verticals, from women's career development to reproductive health. You can check out more of her work at zoeakaplan.com.

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.