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An antiestrogenic steroid, believed to be the active principle of the corpus luteum, isolated from the corpus luteum and placenta or synthetically prepared; used to correct abnormalities of the menstrual cycle and as a contraceptive and to control habitual abortion. SYN: luteohormone, pregnancy hormone, progestational hormone.
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pro·ges·ter·one prō-'jes-tə-.rōn n a female steroid sex hormone C21H30O2 that is secreted by the corpus luteum to prepare the endometrium for implantation and later by the placenta during pregnancy to prevent rejection of the developing embryo or fetus also a synthetic steroid resembling progesterone in action
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n.
a steroid hormone secreted by the corpus luteum of the ovary, the placenta, and also (in small amounts) by the adrenal cortex and testes. It is responsible for preparing the inner lining (endometrium) of the uterus for pregnancy. If fertilization occurs it maintains the uterus throughout pregnancy and prevents the further release of eggs from the ovary. See also menstrual cycle, progestogen.
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pro·ges·te·rone (pro-jesґtə-rōn) the principal progestational hormone of the body, liberated by the corpus luteum, placenta, and in minute amounts by the adrenal cortex; it prepares the uterus for the reception and development of the fertilized oocyte by transforming the endometrium from the proliferative to the secretory stage and maintains an optimal intrauterine environment for sustaining pregnancy. [USP] the same principle isolated from pregnant sows or prepared synthetically; used, usually in the form of synthetic derivatives, as a progestational agent in the treatment of dysfunctional uterine bleeding and abnormalities of the menstrual cycle, as part of postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy, as a test for endogenous estrogen production, and as an adjunct in the treatment of infertility due to partial or complete ovarian failure; administered orally, intramuscularly, or intravaginally. Called also progestational hormone.Medical dictionary. 2011.