Progesterone is the hormone of pregnancy and is secreted by the ovary. Progesterone receptors are found in the uterus, breast, vagina, blood vessels, and brain. After menopause, the ovary stops functioning and progesterone is no longer produced.
Benefits of Bioidentical Progesterone Replacement
Progesterone protects the uterus, breasts, bone, and heart. It protects against cancers (uterine, breast), osteoporosis, fibrocystic breast disease, ovarian cysts, and cardiovascular disease (via decreased total cholesterol and increase HDL).
Who might consider Progesterone use?
Every postmenopausal woman with or without a uterus should take progesterone. Consider progesterone use for those in perimenopause or for Pre Menstrual Syndrome (PMS).
Potential side effects of Progesterone
Synthetic progestin (medroxyprogesterone acetate, or Provera) is not the same as Bioidentical progesterone! Synthetic progestins cause breast cancer, strokes, cardiovascular heart disease, birth defects, bloating, headache, fatigue, weight gain, depression, dementia, and diabetes. This is not what we will prescribe for you.
Bioidentical progesterone taken orally has never been shown in any study to increase the risk of breast cancer, strokes, and heart disease. In fact, bioidentical progesterone has been shown to decrease the risk of breast cancer. Bioidentical progesterone may cause drowsiness (therefore is given at night), breast/nipple tenderness, dizziness (at high doses), bleeding, or spotting.
Who should NOT use Progesterone?
Pregnant women.
How is Progesterone supplied?
Oral capsule, sublingual (under the tongue) as a triturate or Rapid Dissolved Tablet is absorbed the best. Creams and sublingual drops are not absorbed well and are not recommended.
