Progestogens: The Hidden Architect of Your Emotional State
Scientifically Reviewed · Dr. Marwa Abd-Alazim · September 14, 2026
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Progestogens: Definition, History, and Further Reading
Progestogens, also known as progestins, are hormones that play a vital role in the female reproductive system. They are derived from the progesterone hormone and have many physiological functions, such as stimulating the growth of the endometrium during the menstrual cycle, preparing the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg, and maintaining pregnancy. Progestogens are also used as a part of hormone therapy to treat conditions related to menopause, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids.
Definition
Progestogens are a group of hormones derived from progesterone, which is the primary female sex hormone. These hormones have many physiological functions, such as stimulating the growth of the endometrium during the menstrual cycle, preparing the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg, and maintaining pregnancy. Progestogens are also used as a part of hormone therapy to treat conditions related to menopause, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids.
History
The use of progestogens in hormone therapy dates back to the 1940s, when the first synthetic progestogen, norethisterone, was identified. Since then, progestogens have become an essential component of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in women. In the 1950s, progestogens were used in combination with estrogens to manage menopausal symptoms. In the 1960s, progestogens were used to treat endometrial hyperplasia. In the 1970s, progestogens were used to treat menstrual disorders. In the 1980s, progestogens were used to treat endometriosis and uterine fibroids.
Further Reading
Baird, D.T. (1985). Progestogens and hormone replacement therapy. Clinical Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, 8, 23-34.
Davis, A.R., & Schor, N. (2008). Progestogens in reproductive medicine: An update. Current Opinion in Obstetrics and Gynecology, 20, 371-377.
Jiang, M., & Wang, Y. (2014). Progestogens for women with endometriosis: A review of current evidence. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, 7, 1477-1486.
Lobo, R.A. (2005). Progestogens and hormone replacement therapy: A review. Maturitas, 50, 11-22.
Ricciardelli, I., & Arulkumaran, S. (2015). Progestogens: Role in endometrial protection. Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 29, 586-595.
