Myths vs facts: Progesteron and Blutzucker

The claim that progesterone lowers blood sugar or protects against diabetes is a myth. In reality, progesterone – especially during the luteal phase or with hormone therapy – can reduce insulin sensitivity and slightly raise blood glucose. Studies indicate that both natural progesterone and synthetic progestins impair glucose tolerance by blunting insulin action. In women with prediabetes or gestational diabetes, this effect may be clinically relevant. However, the evidence is moderate: most data come from observational or small intervention studies, not large RCTs. The effect also varies by progestin type (e.g., dydrogesterone vs. levonorgestrel). A direct causal link between progesterone and manifest diabetes is not established. For healthy women without metabolic issues, the effect is usually negligible. Bottom line: progesterone can modestly influence blood sugar, but should not be mistaken for a glucose-lowering agent. Individual risk assessment (e.g., in PCOS or pregnancy) is advisable.