What is the primary role of progesterone during pregnancy?

The primary role of progesterone during pregnancy is to support gestation. Progesterone is a key hormone that helps maintain the uterine lining and creates a suitable environment for the developing embryo. It ensures that the endometrium remains thick and enriched with blood vessels, which is crucial for nourishing the growing fetus. This hormone also plays a role in suppressing uterine contractions to avoid premature labor, thereby facilitating a stable environment for the pregnancy to progress.

While progesterone is involved in preparing the uterus for implantation, which occurs before pregnancy, its primary function during pregnancy is to sustain and support the ongoing gestation period. This differentiates its role from those that strictly involve the reproductive cycle or ovulation, emphasizing its importance in maintaining pregnancy until the fetus reaches viability.