What do estrogen and progesterone actually do in your cycle?

Estrogen and progesterone are the two primary hormones driving your menstrual cycle. Estrogen rises in the first half of your cycle to thicken the uterine lining and support egg maturation, while progesterone rises after ovulation to prepare your body for a possible pregnancy. Understanding what each hormone is doing, and when, can make the rest of your cycle make a lot more sense.

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially while trying to conceive.

Estrogen's role

According to NICHD, estrogen levels begin rising around day 5 of a typical cycle, causing the uterine lining to thicken in preparation for a possible fertilized egg. Rising estrogen also drives the maturation of the ovarian follicle that will eventually release an egg during ovulation.

Progesterone's role

After ovulation, the structure left behind on the ovary, called the corpus luteum, begins producing progesterone. Progesterone continues preparing the uterine lining to support a potential pregnancy, and if fertilization doesn't happen, progesterone levels drop, triggering the start of a new cycle.

"Progesterone is low, so they put me on progesterone. But why is progesterone low? That's telling us that something's not optimal."

— Dr. Samantha Ess, ND, Naturopathic Doctor specializing in hormone health and fertility

What about testosterone?

Women also produce testosterone, in much smaller amounts than men, and it plays a role in reproductive tissue function, mood, cognition, and musculoskeletal health. According to the Cleveland Clinic, testosterone and estrogen are sometimes mistakenly thought of as strictly gendered hormones, but both play important roles in men's and women's bodies.

"Both have important biological functions in both men and women."

— Talia Crawford, MD, Ob/Gyn, Cleveland Clinic

A review of research on estrogen and progesterone's effects on the central nervous system notes that these hormones influence far more than reproduction alone, including mood regulation and neural function, underscoring how interconnected hormone signaling is with overall wellbeing.

Supporting healthy hormone function

• Our doctor-formulated gummies for reproductive wellness, with 13 fertility-focused nutrients supporting normal ovulation, menstrual cycle regularity, and healthy hormone function†
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Neither product is intended for use during pregnancy; both are formulated to support women in the preconception, trying-to-conceive phase.†

"Understanding how God designed your body, the ebb and flow of these hormones, isn't complicated science reserved for doctors. Every woman deserves to know her own rhythm."

— Amy Suzanne Upchurch, Founder and CEO of Pink Stork

For a look at how these hormones show up in daily life, see our overview of cycle syncing and what the research supports, or check the signs your own cycle might be irregular.

Premium Fertility Gummies are doctor-formulated and third-party tested in cGMP-certified facilities; Myo Chiro 40:1 includes Berry ScentCert and is also third-party tested. Both are part of the Pink Stork line with 50,000+ verified Amazon reviews across the brand.

Frequently asked questions

What does estrogen do in the menstrual cycle?

Estrogen rises in the first half of the cycle, thickening the uterine lining and supporting the maturation of the egg-containing follicle.

What does progesterone do in the menstrual cycle?

Progesterone rises after ovulation to prepare the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy. If pregnancy doesn't occur, progesterone drops and a new cycle begins.

Do women need testosterone too?

Yes. Women produce testosterone in smaller amounts than men, and it plays a role in mood, cognition, and musculoskeletal health, among other functions.

Can I take Premium Fertility Gummies while pregnant?

No. Premium Fertility Gummies are not for use during pregnancy. They're formulated for women trying to conceive. Talk to your provider about prenatal supplement options during pregnancy.

Is it normal for hormone levels to fluctuate throughout the month?

Yes. Estrogen and progesterone naturally rise and fall across the cycle as part of normal reproductive function.

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or while managing a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.