What does progesterone do GCSE?

Progesterone maintains the lining of the uterus and prepares the body for pregnancy. It is one of the key hormones studied in GCSE Biology under the topic of human reproduction and the menstrual cycle.

After ovulation, the empty follicle transforms into a structure called the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum then produces progesterone. This hormone keeps the uterus lining thick and ready to receive a fertilised egg.

If fertilisation does not occur, progesterone levels drop. The uterus lining breaks down and menstruation begins. This cycle repeats roughly every 28 days.

If fertilisation does occur, progesterone levels stay high throughout pregnancy. This prevents further eggs from being released and stops menstruation from happening.

Progesterone also plays a role in hormonal contraception. Some contraceptive pills use synthetic progesterone to suppress ovulation and alter the uterus lining, making pregnancy less likely.

In the Cambridge IGCSE Biology specification, students are expected to understand how progesterone interacts with other hormones, particularly oestrogen, FSH, and LH. These four hormones work together to control the menstrual cycle in a feedback loop.

These are the main functions of progesterone that come up in GCSE examinations:

• Maintains the uterus lining
• Prevents further ovulation during pregnancy
• Produced by the corpus luteum
• Used in hormonal contraceptives
• Drops to trigger menstruation

Students studying through a British curriculum online school cover this topic in detail as part of their IGCSE programme. At DIS, qualified Biology instructors teach this content in live lessons, with structured notes and resources available through the school's learning platform. If you have questions about how GCSE Biology is taught online, contact us for more information.