Hidden Potential: Understanding the Benefits of Progesterone after Menopause
Throughout the Menopausal transition, women face physical and emotional troubles.
These extend beyond common Menopausal symptoms related to reproductive system
The symptoms can persist even after Menopause is reached.
The underlying cause behind the symptoms is a decline in hormone levels, particularly Estrogen and Progesterone.
While Estrogen Replacement Therapy has long been recognized for its advantages, the significance of Progesterone after Menopause is frequently underestimated.
This article assesses the benefits of Progesterone after Menopause and its positive impact on women’s well-being.
Understanding the functionality of Progesterone
Progesterone is primarily known as the pregnancy hormone in females, and most of its function relates to maintaining pregnancy.
Its primary role revolves around supporting pregnancy by preparing the uterus lining for pregnancy and reducing uterine muscle contractions.
Progesterone also plays a role in the regulation of menstrual cycles.
While Progesterone is mainly linked to the reproductive system, it also has essential brain and nervous system health and protection functions.
It supports and sustains nerve cells in both the brain and peripheral nervous system by aiding in developing a protective covering around them called myelin.
Progesterone is also an active participant in the formation of bones.
The Little-known benefits of Progesterone after Menopause
With Menopause comes a decline in hormone production, particularly Estrogen and Progesterone.
The underwhelming hormone levels present a range of physical and psychological difficulties among women.
Hormone therapy is the primary and most effective treatment to manage these difficulties.
Progesterone is mainly recognized for its role in such therapies.
However, the utility of Progesterone extends well beyond this.
There are several medical conditions and situations where Progesterone shows preventive and curative efficacy.
Letâs look at the benefits of Progesterone after Menopause.
Combating hot flushes and night sweats
Progesterone administration is an effective treatment for Menopausal hot flashes and night sweats.
It can be taken as oral tablets and transdermal creams and patches.
Reducing the risk of cancers
Estrogen-only hormone therapy has been linked to a substantial increase in the odds of developing endometrial (uterine lining) cancer.
This is why it is supplemented by Progesterone to counter the abnormal lining proliferation caused by Estrogen alone, thus reducing the cancer risk.
Additionally, Progestin in combination with Estrogen significantly reduces the risk of colorectal cancer (colon or rectum).
Preventing bone deterioration(Osteoporosis)
Depletion of reproductive hormones may develop Osteoporosis, a severe condition that affects over 30% of Post-menopausal women.
Progesterone has been shown to have a preventive effect on Osteoporosis.
Improving mood and sleep quality
Progesterone has various impacts on the central nervous system, with one of the main effects being a calming or sedative effect.
This characteristic of Progesterone plays a significant role in improving sleep quality by enhancing sleep efficiency and reducing sleep induction time.
Taking Progesterone before bedtime can further enhance deep sleep and contribute to healthier sleep cycles.
Additionally, Progesterone has been found to assist in regulating mood disorders.
Skin de-wrinkling
Studies have revealed that post-menopausal skin tends to become drier, less elastic, and more prone to wrinkling due to a decline in collagen levels.
However, the application of topical Progesterone cream (2%) has been proven to enhance skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles in peri- and post-menopausal women.
Assisted Pregnancy
When natural pregnancy is not possible due to the inability of eggs or sperm to fertilize, assisted reproduction can be considered.
Assisted reproductive technology treatments include In vitro fertilization (IVF) and Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
Progesterone is administered to support implantation in IVF and ICSI treatments and prevent miscarriages.
Treatment of other diseases
Progesterone is prescribed for the treatment of various other health conditions as well.
In the case of Endometrial Hyperplasia (uterus lining grows too thick), which is unrelated to Estrogen therapy, Progesterone is often the primary treatment option.
Furthermore, Progesterone can also be used to address abnormal bleeding in the genital tract, also known as Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding(DUB).
Summary
The general perception regarding the benefits of Progesterone hormone is limited to its role in endometrial cancer risk reduction when used alongside Estrogen.
However, there are an array of other benefits of Progesterone after Menopause.
It also finds its utilization in treating abnormal vaginal bleeding and irregularities in the thickness of the uterus lining.
Progesterone hormones also play an essential role in the central nervous system and can help regulate sleep and mood disorders.
They can help reduce hot flashes and minimize bone deterioration after Menopause.
Progesterone can enhance skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles when applied topically in cream form.
It is, however, vital to be cautious with the use of Progesterone, as elevated levels of this hormone may result in certain side effects.
Some of them include headaches, back pain, abdominal cramps, breast tenderness, hypotension and dizziness, clotting of blood, and abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Hence Progesterone must be administered after a consultation with a doctor, and it is advisable to keep a check on their levels at regular intervals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the benefit of taking Progesterone after Menopause?
There are multiple benefits of Progesterone after Menopause. It is used to combat Menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep, and mood disorders. It also helps prevent Osteoporosis and minimize skin wrinkles. However, there are risks associated with elevated levels of Progesterone. Therefore, prior consultation with a doctor is essential.
What are the risks of taking Progesterone after Menopause?
Abnormal Progesterone level may result in certain side effects. These may include Headaches, back pain, Abdominal cramps, breast tenderness, hypotension and dizziness, clotting of blood, and abnormal vaginal bleeding. Caution is advised while administering Progesterone.
Is it safe to take progesterone after menopause?
Yes, It is generally safe to take Progesterone after Menopause. However, one should take it only if the doctor prescribes it. You should also be mindful of its side effects in case of abnormal levels of these hormones in the body. If you observe any side effects, discontinue them immediately and inform your doctor.
How to reduce side effects of Progesterone?
To minimize the risk of the side effects, speak with your doctor to determine the best Progesterone product and mode depending upon your symptoms. For example, vaginal cream may be more appropriate for vaginal concerns than an oral pill. Furthermore, it should be taken in the lowest possible dose and for the shortest duration necessary.
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