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Understanding Progesterone, the PGR Gene, and What Your Genotype Means

Progesterone is a central hormone for reproductive health. It prepares the uterus for pregnancy, supports maintenance of pregnancy, balances estrogen, and influences menstrual cycles and mood. The PGR gene encodes the progesterone receptor, the protein that allows your body to respond to progesterone. Variations in PGR can change how effectively that response works, which in some cases affects pregnancy outcomes such as the risk of preterm birth.

Why the Progesterone Receptor Matters

Progesterone signaling depends not only on hormone levels but on how well receptors in target tissues detect and respond to progesterone. If receptor signaling is reduced, even normal progesterone concentrations might not produce the full protective effects needed during pregnancy. That is why genetic variations in PGR can be relevant for people planning pregnancy or with a history of preterm birth.

How to Use This Information

Genetic results show predispositions, not certainties. Regardless of genotype, the same lifestyle and nutritional strategies that support hormone balance are useful. If you are planning pregnancy, are pregnant, or have had preterm birth, discuss your genetic result with your healthcare provider. They can interpret your genotype in the context of your personal and family medical history and recommend appropriate monitoring or interventions.

Genetic Interpretations

Two effect alleles (GG genotype) — increased risk of preterm birth

If you have the GG genotype for rs471767, you carry two copies of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, likely due to reduced progesterone receptor signaling during pregnancy.

What this means for you:

  • Your progesterone receptors may respond less efficiently to progesterone, which could reduce uterine support when progesterone is most needed during pregnancy.
  • This does not mean you will definitely have preterm birth, but it signals a potential vulnerability that your healthcare provider can monitor.
  • If planning pregnancy or with prior preterm birth, discuss targeted monitoring and possible progesterone support strategies with your clinician.
One effect allele (AG genotype) — modestly increased risk of preterm birth

If you have the AG genotype for rs471767, you carry one copy of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, likely related to somewhat reduced progesterone receptor signaling during pregnancy.

What this means for you:

  • Your receptors may function slightly less efficiently compared with people without the effect allele, which could modestly affect progesterone support in pregnancy.
  • Talk with your healthcare provider about your reproductive plan. They can decide whether additional monitoring or interventions are appropriate based on your full clinical picture.
No effect alleles (AA genotype) — typical risk

If you have the AA genotype for rs471767, you carry two copies of the non-effect allele. This genotype is associated with typical progesterone receptor function and standard risk for preterm birth.

What this means for you:

  • Your progesterone receptors are expected to respond normally to progesterone.
  • Standard prenatal care and the general hormone-supporting strategies outlined below are recommended.

Practical Steps to Support Progesterone Balance

Whether or not you carry an effect allele, the following habits support healthy progesterone production and signaling, and they are helpful for reproductive health and overall wellness.

Nutrition and Supplements

  • Consume adequate dietary cholesterol. Cholesterol is the precursor for steroid hormones including progesterone. Include whole eggs, full-fat dairy if tolerated, and healthy animal and plant fats where appropriate.
  • Prioritize healthy fats. Monounsaturated and omega-3 fats support hormone synthesis and cell membrane integrity. Sources include olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish.
  • Ensure sufficient vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 supports progesterone synthesis and neurotransmitter balance. Foods: poultry, bananas, potatoes, and fortified cereals. If supplementing, follow recommended doses from your provider.
  • Support magnesium and zinc status. These minerals are involved in hormone production and receptor function. Good sources: leafy greens, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, and seafood.
  • Eat fiber-rich and fermented foods. Fiber supports healthy estrogen metabolism and gut bacteria through bowel regularity. Fermented foods support the microbiome that can influence hormone cycling.
  • Consider targeted supplements only after discussing with your healthcare provider. In people with increased risk or clinical indications, providers sometimes consider progesterone therapy during pregnancy under medical supervision.

Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Maintain a healthy weight. Both underweight and overweight can disrupt hormone balance and ovulatory function.
  • Manage stress. Chronic stress increases cortisol which can interfere with reproductive hormones. Practices such as sleep hygiene, regular moderate exercise, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques help.
  • Support thyroid health. Thyroid dysfunction can affect menstrual cycles and progesterone production; ask your provider about thyroid screening if you have symptoms.
  • Track menstrual cycles and symptoms. A consistent record of cycle length, flow, and symptoms helps clinicians identify problems early and correlate them with genetic or other risk factors.
  • Minimize exposure to hormone disruptors. Reduce contact with plastics that contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals and limit pesticide exposure by choosing safer handling and food options when possible.

When to Talk with Your Healthcare Provider

  • If you are planning pregnancy, pregnant, or have had a prior preterm birth
  • If you experience irregular cycles, heavy bleeding, severe premenstrual symptoms, or other reproductive concerns
  • Before starting any hormone therapy or new supplement, especially during pregnancy
  • If you want personalized screening or monitoring strategies based on your genotype and medical history

Clinical Considerations and Monitoring

For people with increased genetic risk or concerning obstetric histories, clinicians may consider enhanced prenatal surveillance, cervical length monitoring, and in some cases evidence-based progesterone interventions. Decisions about testing and treatment are individualized and based on overall risk, prior outcomes, and current pregnancy characteristics.

Important Disclaimer

PlexusDx provides educational information about genetic predispositions only. This content is not medical advice and does not replace evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medical care, starting supplements, or beginning treatments based on genetic results.