Progessence Plus is a serum that provides natural progesterone derived from wild yams. Wild yam extract has been studied and used traditionally to support women’s health, especially around the time of menopause. The data is inconsistent on whether wild yam is effective, but reports do indicate that it is safe. Progesterone is well known to be absorbed across the surface of the skin, and in theory, can raise serum progesterone levels. Because progesterone is considered the hormone of pregnancy, many people ask whether or not Progessence Plus during pregnancy is a good idea. Certainly, it is important to discuss the wild yam extract, as well as the essential oils in the mixture with your physician or midwife before using. But does this product even make sense while pregnant?
Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy
During the menstrual cycle, progesterone levels stay relatively low during the first half of the cycle. Following ovulation in the middle of the cycle, progesterone levels begin to rise. They continue to rise until just before the menstrual bleeding begins, when progesterone levels plummet, thereby signalling menstruation. However, if fertilization occurs progesterone levels continue to rise. Progesterone levels rise continuously through the first 36–38 weeks of pregnancy to much higher levels than at any other point in a woman’s life.
