Does low progesterone in women cause low libido?

Progesterone, also known as luteal hormone, is a naturally occurring hormone in women's bodies, primarily secreted by the corpus luteum in the ovaries. It plays an important role in maintaining the function of the female reproductive system. Imbalances in progesterone levels may affect a woman's physical and psychological states, including mood swings, sleep disturbances, and menstrual irregularities. Changes in progesterone levels may indirectly influence libido. Sexual desire is affected by multiple factors, including physiological, psychological, emotional, and environmental elements. When progesterone levels are low in women, the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis in the brain may be affected, leading to decreased estrogen secretion. Reduced estrogen levels can impact a woman's sexual desire and arousal, thereby increasing the risk of low libido. Although hormone levels (such as estrogen and testosterone) have a direct impact on sexual desire, progesterone's primary role tends more toward maintaining pregnancy and regulating the menstrual cycle, rather than directly enhancing libido. If a woman experiences a decrease in sexual desire and suspects it may be related to hormone levels, it is recommended to consult a doctor for evaluation to determine the specific cause and receive appropriate treatment advice.