I'm trying to understand the science behind pregnancy better. Which main hormone is responsible for all the changes and is secreted in large amounts during pregnancy?
Estrogen and progesterone are the big ones, and later relaxin helps loosen the joints. Even after my C-section, it took weeks for these hormone levels to settle down as my body was healing, so give yourself plenty of time.
I know hCG and progesterone are the main ones that shoot up, which made me feel so emotional and anxious in the beginning. Did anyone else feel like these crazy hormones completely changed their mood overnight?
Actually, I read that hCG is the hormone that is detected in home pregnancy tests when we try. It is amazing how our bodies produce special hormones to support a new life.
Mainly hCG, progesterone, and estrogen are secreted to sustain the pregnancy. hCG is what makes the test positive, while progesterone keeps the uterine lining strong to support the baby.
Hormones like progesterone and prolactin literally rewrite your whole emotional world to prepare you for motherhood. It's a wild ride that makes you feel every single emotion so deeply, but you are doing wonderfully.
