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Progesterone - Side Effects
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Progesterone is a hormone from a corpus luteum, formed by the cyclical rupture of an ovarian follicle. Progesterone is necessary for proper uterine and breast development and function.
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This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Amenorrhea | Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner | The oral, micronized form has been shown to successfully induce normal menstrual bleeding in women with secondary amenorrhea. (Use of this natural hormone should always be supervised by a doctor.) |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Menopause | Apply enough topical cream to provide 20 mg of the supplement to the skin daily | Progesterone, either natural or synthetic, has been linked to improved hot flashes, anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and sexual functioning, and quality of life. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Osteoporosis | Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner | Preliminary evidence suggests that progesterone might reduce osteoporosis risk by promoting bone density. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Dysmenorrhea | Refer to label instructions | Some practitioners report success using topical progesterone cream for dysmenorrhea. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Premenstrual Syndrome | Refer to label instructions | Anecdotal reports suggest that progesterone may be effective against PMS symptoms. |
| ||
Also indexed as:
- progesterone
About this treatment
Side Effects
Progesterone is a hormone and, as such, concerns about its inappropriate use have been raised. A physician should be consulted before using this hormone as a supplement. Few side effects have been associated with topical progesterone creams but can include skin reactions. Effects of natural progesterone on breast cancer risk remain unclear. Research has suggested both increased and reduced risk.
Synthetic progestins have many well-known side effects, including the increase of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and the decrease of HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Other side effects reported with synthetic progestins include bloating, breast soreness, depression, and mood swings. Natural progesterone has been shown to have no adverse effect on HDL cholesterol levels. Overall, natural progesterone is considerably safer than progestins and is therefore preferred by many doctors in situations where either would be effective.
Last Review: 05-11-2011
Copyright © 2011 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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