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The most recent studies of progesterone research provide remarkable insights into the physiological role and clinical importance of this hormone. Although the name progesterone itself means “promoting gestation”, this steroid hormone is far more than a gestational agent. Progesterone is recognized as a key physiological component of not only the menstrual cycle and pregnancy but also as an essential steroidogenic precursor of other gonadal and non-gonadal hormones such as aldosterone, cortisol, estradiol, and testosterone. Based on current findings, progesterone and novel progesterone-based drugs have many important functions, including contraception, treatment of dysfunctional uterine bleeding, immune response, and prevention of cancer. Considering the above, reproduction and life are not possible without progesterone; thus, a better understanding of this essential molecule could enable safe and effective use of this hormone in many clinical conditions.

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Highlights of the Study • The aim of this study was to reduce the potential harmful effects of light exposure during IVF and ICSI. • The fertilization rate was significantly higher in light-protected ICSI cycles. • Blastocyst development rates (blastocyst/embryo) were significantly (p < 0.001) higher in lightprotected embryos. • Light protection increases the number of clinical pregnancies/transfers.