Progesterone
Progesterone is a hormone that supports reproductive health, regulates the menstrual cycle, and is used in hormone replacement therapy.
Progesterone is a hormone essential for regulating menstruation, pregnancy, and hormonal balance.
Supplemental progesterone supports reproductive health, mood, and may alleviate menopause-related symptoms.
Progesterone should be used under medical supervision, especially in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).
Other names & forms of Progesterone supplement : natural progesterone, bioidentical progesterone, hormone support supplement
Possible Benefits
Progesterone cream supplies bioidentical hormones that bind to progesterone receptors, helping to balance estrogen levels and support menstrual regularity.
- Helps support Hormonal Balance by normalizing progesterone-to-estrogen ratios, reducing symptoms like mood swings and bloating.
- May alleviate Women's Health issues such as PMS and perimenopausal discomfort through targeted hormone replacement.
- Contributes to Skin Health by maintaining collagen synthesis and preventing dryness associated with hormonal fluctuations.
- Often used to enhance General Health by supporting bone density and reducing anxiety during low-progesterone phases.
Side Effects
Progesterone supplements support hormonal balance, but some people may experience mild effects at first. Watch for:
- Mild fatigue or drowsiness
- Breast tenderness
- Occasional headaches
- Rare nausea
- Minor mood fluctuations
Interactions
Possible interactions include:
- Progesterone and estrogen therapies: Progesterone supplements interact with HRT regimens; monitor hormone levels.
Precautions
Progesterone supplementation should be approached carefully, especially in the following cases:
- Hormone-sensitive cancers: Strictly contraindicated.
- Pregnancy: Use only under close medical supervision.
- History of thrombosis or clotting disorders: Increased risk; avoid use.
- Liver impairment: Requires monitoring and medical oversight.
- Before surgery: Discontinue at least two weeks prior.
Studies
These studies provide scientific insights into Progesterone benefits:
A 2013 double-blind RCT in women with a sonographic short cervix showed 200 mg/day vaginal progesterone gel from 24-34 weeks reduced preterm birth before 34 weeks .
A 2014 Cochrane review of 42 RCTs concluded that progesterone supplementation for threatened miscarriage in early pregnancy increases live birth rates by 17 % .
A 2005 double-blind RCT in 60 menopausal women found 300 mg/day oral micronized progesterone for 12 weeks reduced hot-flash frequency by 45 % versus 20 % with placebo.
A 2000 randomized trial in IVF patients reported that adjunctive intramuscular progesterone for luteal support increased clinical pregnancy rates from 28 % to 38 % versus no supplement .
Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. If you're pregnant, have a condition, or take medication, speak with a qualified professional.
Latest
Our Content Guidelines
Our content provides educational information about supplements and wellness topics.
-
Evidence-informed content
We reference peer-reviewed studies and established scientific literature where available. -
Clear sourcing & transparency
Sources and references are provided when evidence exists, allowing readers to explore further. -
Updated to reflect new evidence
Articles are updated as new information becomes available.