Importance of Progesterone Supplements: Benefits & More

Among the other crucial hormones, Progesterone plays a vital role in maintaining balance and well-being. 

While primarily preparing the uterus for pregnancy, it regulates other body functions, too. 

Maintaining adequate Progesterone levels is essential for a healthy reproductive system and overall well-being.

Progesterone is essential for menstruation, pregnancy, and Menopause.

Approximately 75% of women experience hormonal imbalances at some point in their lives.

Irregular menstrual periods, mood swings, and infertility are common symptoms. 

Progesterone supplements address these imbalances, providing the body with the support it needs.

This article discusses the advantages of Progesterone supplements, adverse effects, dosage, and other vital information.

Types of Progesterone supplements

People can get various forms of Progesterone supplements over the counter. 

It’s important to note that there are two main types of Progesterone: synthetic and bioidentical. 

Bioidentical Progesterone is chemically and structurally identical to the Progesterone produced by the body. 

In contrast, synthetic Progesterone, also known as Progestin, is a class of synthetic hormone drugs that acts like the natural hormone Progesterone.

There are various types of Progesterone supplements available in the market, including:

• Creams: Progesterone creams are a common form of Progesterone supplementation. They are applied to the skin and are available over the counter. These creams often contain bioidentical Progesterone derived from sources such as wild yams or soy
• Supplements: Progesterone supplements are available in capsule or liquid form, which can be taken orally. Healthcare professionals often prescribe these supplements, and they may contain bioidentical or synthetic Progesterone
• Suppositories: Progesterone suppositories are another form of Progesterone supplementation. They are inserted into the vagina and are often used for fertility treatments and Hormone Replacement Therapy
• Injections: Progesterone injections are available and are typically administered by a healthcare professional. They are commonly used for fertility treatments
• Other forms: Progesterone supplements can also be found in the form of oils, which may contain a higher concentration of Progesterone than creams

It’s important to note that oral Progesterone typically requires a prescription from a doctor. 

Remember to consult a physician before starting any supplement regimen to ensure the appropriate usage and potential interactions with other medications.

Uses and benefits of Progesterone supplements

It is very important to maintain normal Progesterone levels during pregnancy.

Using Progesterone supplements during this time can be crucial for expecting mothers.

Progesterone supplementation during pregnancy can be used to support pregnancy, prevent miscarriage, and treat recurrent miscarriages.

These supplements can help increase the chances of a successful pregnancy by thickening the uterine lining and preventing ovulation.

They also suppress uterine contractions and prepare the breasts for breastfeeding.

This section delves into the multifaceted uses of Progesterone supplements and their potential benefits.

Uses of Progesterone supplements

Progesterone supplements, a form of hormone therapy, find applications in addressing various health concerns.

They are used for various purposes, including:

• Hormone Replacement Therapy 
• Regulating the menstrual cycle 
• Preventing changes in the uterus 
• Supporting pregnancy

They are also prescribed to reduce the risk of developing certain diseases, such as Uterine Cancer. 

Additionally, Progesterone supplements can help alleviate symptoms of Perimenopause and Menopause, support fertility and pregnancy, and provide contraception.

You can learn more about how to increase Progesterone in more detail here.

Benefits of Progesterone supplements

Progesterone supplements have gained attention for their potential health benefits.

They offer various benefits, including:

• Reducing Endometrial Cancer risk: They can help reduce the risk of Endometrial Cancer by maintaining a thick uterine lining
• Alleviating Menopause symptoms: Progesterone also helps reduce hot flashes, improve sleep, and address cognitive issues during Menopause
• Improving fertility: These supplements may improve fertility by thickening the uterine lining and supporting implantation
• Supporting pregnancy: They can help maintain the early stages of pregnancy by thickening the uterine lining and preventing ovulation
• Reducing symptoms of PMS: Progesterone supplements may also reduce Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) symptoms, such as bloating, mood swings, and headaches
• Reducing inflammation and joint pain: Progesterone can be helpful in reducing inflammation and joint pain
• Improving sleep: The supplements aid in improving sleep quality
• Reducing migraines: They may potentially reduce or eliminate Migraines
• Regulating menstrual cycles: Progesterone supplements can assist in regulating menstrual cycles

Progesterone supplement dosage

The recommended dosage for Progesterone supplements depends on the individual’s needs and the reason for taking the supplement.

Here are some common dosages for different purposes:

Menstrual cramps

A doctor may prescribe Progesterone supplements for dealing with menstrual cramps.

Progesterone supplements are typically taken as a single dose of 200 mg per day for 12 consecutive days per 28-day menstrual cycle.

Menopause 

Progesterone supplements are often taken in combination with Estrogen supplements. 

The usual dose of a Progesterone supplement is two capsules (200 mg) taken once a day, on days 15 to 26 of a 28-day HRT cycle.

Fertility

Progesterone supplements can be taken in various forms, such as:

• Oral capsules and tablets: 400 mg orally once at bedtime for ten days
• Vaginal inserts: Initial dose of 100 mg vaginally 2 to 3 times every day, starting the day after oocyte/egg retrieval

It can also be used as vaginal gels (90 mg vaginally once a day or two times each day with partial or complete ovarian failure requiring Progesterone).

It is essential to consult a doctor before starting any supplement regimen to determine the appropriate dosage for personal needs. 

Non-prescription Progesterone products may contain more or less Progesterone than indicated on the label, and these products do not require FDA approval.

Risks of supplements to increase Progesterone

Taking Progesterone supplements may have potential risks.

Some of the risks of using Progesterone include:

• Breast Cancer
• Ovarian Cancer
• Heart problems
• Blood clotting problems
• Stroke
• Uterine Fibroids

Additionally, Progesterone supplements should not be used by individuals with arterial disease or Breast Cancer unless directed to do so by a doctor. 

One should discuss the potential risks and benefits of Progesterone supplements with a healthcare provider before using them.

This should be done especially in the context of an individual’s medical history and specific health needs.

Progesterone supplement side effects

Progesterone supplements can cause various side effects, including:

• Headache, dizziness, Vertigo
• Bloating or digestive upset 
• Mood swings, including depression
• Low Blood Pressure, changes in heart rate
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Coughing
• Menstrual changes 
• Confusion
• Vision changes
• Swelling

Progesterone supplements may also cause symptoms of an allergic reaction.

This includes skin rash or itchy skin, tightness in the chest, tingling in the mouth or throat, trouble breathing, and swelling in the hands or face.

Progesterone interactions with other medications

There are interactions between Progesterone supplements and other medications.

Some of the medications that may interact with Progesterone include Clarithromycin, Abametapir, and Eslicarbazepine Acetate.

There are moderate interactions of Progesterone supplements with medications including:

• Antifungal medicines 
• Certain antibiotics 
• HIV medications 
• Antifungal medicines 
• Diuretics 
• Diabetes medications

Natural Progesterone supplements

Some natural Progesterone supplements include:

• Vitex (Chaste Berry): Vitex supports natural Progesterone production, healthy Estrogen levels, and hormonal balance. It is often used to regulate menstrual cycles and support fertility
• Maca: Maca is a root vegetable often used to support hormonal balance and fertility. It is supposed to help regulate the menstrual cycle and support healthy Progesterone levels
• Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb is often used to support stress management and hormonal balance. It is believed to help support healthy Progesterone levels and regulate the menstrual cycle

It’s important to note that the FDA does not regulate natural Progesterone supplements, which may not be as effective as prescription Progesterone supplements. 

Read about food that increases Progesterone to add to your diet.

Conclusion

Maintaining adequate Progesterone levels is essential for overall well-being, especially for women. 

Progesterone plays a crucial role in regulating various body functions, including menstruation, pregnancy, and Menopause. 

Women having hormonal imbalances, such as irregular menstrual periods, mood swings, and infertility, can benefit from Progesterone supplements. 

Progesterone supplements, such as creams, supplements, suppositories, injections, and oils containing bioidentical or synthetic Progesterone, are available on the market. 

It’s important to note that oral Progesterone usually requires a prescription from a healthcare professional. 

Therefore, it’s always best to consult a doctor before taking Progesterone supplements. 

Progesterone supplements can help alleviate symptoms associated with different stages of life, leading to improved quality of life and overall well-being.

You can also go through foods to avoid while taking Progesterone to know which foods can be harmful if you consume Progesterone supplements.

Frequently Asked Questions