tissue effects
Last reviewed 01/2018
Progestogens have effects on a wide range of tissues:
- oviducts:
- reduced mucus secretion
- reduced number of cilia
- uterus - see submenu
- cervix: alteration in consistency of mucus makes it more difficult for sperm to traverse; this is the basis for one of the contraceptive actions
- breast:
- stimulates development of milk ducts in combination with other hormones such as prolactin
- localized fluid retention, increasing volume and tenderness, towards the end of the cycle
- kidneys: inhibition of aldosterone action with increased excretion of salt
- other hormonal cells: inhibits LH release, so interfering with ovulation - underlies its role as a contraceptive within the minipill - progesterone-only pill
Menstruation is largely the result of progestogen withdrawal.