Provera vs Progesterone: Understanding the Differences and Choosing the Right Option

Regarding women’s health and hormone regulation, two terms frequently arise in discussions—Provera and Progesterone. 

Progesterone produced in girls before puberty is 0.253 mg/day. While in women, it is 0.418 to 50 mg/day.  During pregnancy, it varies from 92 to 563 mg/day. 

Both of them are crucial in managing conditions such as ovulation, infertility, uterine bleeding, menstrual cycle, etc. 

They are also used in supporting reproductive health.

However, you need to understand the differences between Provera and Progesterone in order to make informed decisions regarding their usage. 

This article will comprehensively compare Provera vs Progesterone, enabling individuals to choose the right option for their needs.

An overview

What is Progesterone?

Progesterone is a natural hormone produced by our bodies. 

It is made in the adrenal glands, ovaries (in women), and testes (in men). 

But, during pregnancy, this hormone is also produced by the placenta. 

It is made from cholesterol and has many functions in our body, especially regarding reproduction.

In women, Progesterone helps regulate the menstrual cycle and prepares the uterus for pregnancy. 

It is produced in the ovary during the first ten weeks of pregnancy. After that, the placenta produces Progesterone until the baby is born.

Progesterone maintains a healthy pregnancy as it supports the growth of the placenta.

It also prevents the uterus from contracting, which could lead to miscarriage. 

Progesterone also plays a role in preparing the breasts for breastfeeding.

What is Provera?

Provera is a brand name for a synthetic form of Progesterone called Medroxyprogesterone acetate. 

While Progesterone is naturally produced in the body, Provera is created in laboratories.

Provera is commonly used in medical treatments to regulate the menstrual cycle, support hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and as a form of birth control. 

It is available through pills, injections, and intrauterine devices (IUDs).

Provera mimics the effects of Progesterone in the body. It can help regulate irregular periods and manage Endometriosis and abnormal uterine bleeding.

Chemical structure of Provera and Progesterone

The chemical structure of Progesterone and Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) can be described as follows:

Progesterone

Progesterone, a natural hormone in our bodies, has a unique chemical structure. It comprises 21 carbon atoms and is derived from cholesterol through steroidogenesis. 

The progesterone molecule consists of four interconnected rings of carbon atoms, forming a cyclopentane-perhydro-phenanthrene backbone.

The backbone of Progesterone comprises 17 carbon molecules that come together to form the four rings.

These rings give the molecule its characteristic shape. The rings are connected and stabilize the progesterone structure.

Provera

The chemical structure of Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) has the following components:

Medroxyprogesterone

Medroxyprogesterone is the base compound of Provera. 

It is derived from Progesterone and has a similar structure. Medroxyprogesterone consists of four interconnected carbon rings.

Acetate group

The chemical structure of Provera incorporates an acetate group. The acetate group is attached to medroxyprogesterone through a chemical bond. 

This modification affects the metabolism of Provera compared to natural Progesterone.

Adding the acetate group to medroxyprogesterone alters the compound’s chemical properties and enhances its stability and duration of action in the body.

Uses of Progesterone and Provera

They are used in several medical contexts. They are essential in maintaining women’s reproductive health and treating any form of uterine and breast cancer. 

Progesterone

Progesterone has several essential uses in various aspects of reproductive health and medical treatments.

Regulating the Menstrual Cycle

If progesterone levels are insufficient, it can lead to irregular or absent menstrual periods. Hence, supplementation of Progesterone may be prescribed to regulate the menstrual cycle.

Supporting pregnancy

During pregnancy, Progesterone is crucial for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. It helps to sustain the uterine lining and prevent contractions that could lead to miscarriage. 

Progesterone is initially produced by the ovary in early pregnancy and later by the placenta.

In certain cases, progesterone supplementation may be recommended to support a viable pregnancy, particularly in women with a history of miscarriages or certain medical conditions.

Infertility

It is used in fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF); Progesterone is often used to support embryo implantation and early development. 

It helps create an optimal uterine environment for embryo implantation and subsequent pregnancy.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Progesterone is used for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in menopausal women with an intact uterus. 

It is combined with  Conjugated Equine Estrogens (CEE), Estradiol, or Esterified estrogen to balance the effects of Estrogen and reduce the abnormal uterine lining thickening. 

This combination therapy helps alleviate menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, mood changes, and vaginal dryness.

Management of menopausal symptoms

Progesterone alone or combined with Estrogen may be prescribed to manage symptoms associated with menopause.

It can help improve overall well-being and quality of life during this transitional phase.

Treatment of certain gynecological conditions

Progesterone treats certain gynecological conditions, such as Endometriosis and abnormal uterine bleeding. 

It modulates the hormonal environment and can help regulate the menstrual cycle. It controls excessive endometrial growth and reduces the risk of neoplastic changes in the endometrium.

Provera

Some of the key uses of Provera include:

Menstrual irregularities

Provera is commonly used to manage menstrual irregularities. It mimics the effects of Progesterone in the body and induces withdrawal bleeding, similar to a menstrual period. 

This will regulate the menstrual cycle and establish a more predictable pattern.

Provera can also be used to control and manage abnormal uterine bleeding.

Additionally, Provera is prescribed to manage heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding by promoting controlled shedding of the uterine lining. 

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

In Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), Provera is combined with Estrogen for menopausal women with an intact uterus. 

It is taken cyclically or sequentially, usually for 10 to 14 days each month, along with continuous estrogen therapy. 

Provera protects the uterus by counteracting the effects of Estrogen on the endometrium, reducing the risk of endometrial hyperplasia and cancer. 

Contraception

Provera is available as a contraceptive injection, commonly known as Depo-Provera. 

It provides long-acting contraception by inhibiting ovulation. Apart from this, the thickening of the cervical mucus and altering of the uterine lining also happen. 

The injection is administered every three months.

Endometriosis

Provera may be prescribed to manage the symptoms of Endometriosis, where the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.

It helps suppress the growth of endometrial tissue and reduces pain and inflammation associated with the condition.

Cancer Treatment

In some cases, Provera may be used as a cancer treatment. It may be prescribed to manage certain hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast or endometrial.

As a synthetic progestin, Provera can help inhibit the growth of tumors influenced by hormones such as Estrogen and Progesterone. 

In endometrial cancer cases, it is employed as part of hormonal therapy alone or in combination with other medications. 

It slows downs the growth of cancer cells in the uterine lining and restores hormonal balance. 

Additionally, Provera may be used in palliative care for advanced or metastatic cancers to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. 

Sources and administration of Provera and Progesterone

Progesterone and Provera have similar properties and uses, but there may be differences in their sources and administration. 

Here is a detailed explanation of the source and administration of Progestrine and Provera:

Progesterone

Let’s examine where progesterone is extracted and how to take the hormone.

Source

Progesterone can be obtained from two primary sources—natural and synthetic. 

Natural Progesterone is derived from plant sources, typically from yams or soybeans, through chemical extraction and modification. 

Synthetic Progesterone, also known as progestins, are laboratory-created compounds with similar effects to natural Progesterone but differ in molecular structure.

Administration

Progesterone is available in various forms, including oral capsules, vaginal gels, creams, suppositories, and injections. 

The specific administration route and dosage depend on the prescribed treatment and the healthcare professional’s recommendations. 

Provera

Source

Provera is a brand name for Medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic progestin derived from Progesterone. It is chemically synthesized in a laboratory and does not occur naturally in the body.

Administration

Provera is primarily available in tablet form. The tablets are taken orally with or without food, as directed by a healthcare professional. 

The dosage and treatment depend on the specific condition and individual patient factors. 

Following the prescribed dosage instructions and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Side effects and risks of Provera and Progesterone

These both have almost similar side effects, but there are some additional side effects these medications can cause. 

There are some side effects and risks associated with using Provera and Progesterone. The side effects are:

• Headache
• Breast tenderness or pain
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Tiredness
• Muscle, joint, or bone pain
• Mood swings
• Sneezing
• Cough
• Vaginal discharge
• Problems urinating

Additional side effects of Progesterone include:

• Breast lumps
• Migraine headache
• Severe dizziness
• Weakness in the arm or leg
• Lack of coordination or loss of balance
• Fast heartbeat
• Loss of vision or blurred vision
• Double vision
• Unexpected vaginal bleeding
• Seizures
• Depression
• Hives
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs

Additional side effects of Provera are: 

• Abdominal or stomach pain
• Absent, missed, or irregular menstrual periods
• Anxiety
• Blurred vision
• Changes in skin color
• Clay-colored stools
• Rattling breathing
• Pain in the chest, groin, legs, and calves
• Pain or swelling in the foot or leg
• Slurred speech
• Sudden weakness or numbness in the arm
• Troubled breathing 
• Excess milk flow from the breasts
• Unpleasant breath odor
• Vomiting of blood
• Weight gain
• Yellow eyes or skin

Risks

The risks of Progesterone and Provera include:

• Breast cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Stroke/Heart attack
• Uterine fibroids
• Uterine cancer
• Blood clots 
• Dementia

It’s important to remember that the risks mentioned can vary for each individual, and discuss these risks with your doctor before starting hormone therapy. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the differences between Provera and Progesterone is crucial for individuals seeking hormone regulation and reproductive health management. 

While both substances involve similar functions, such as menstrual cycle regulation and fertility support, they have distinct characteristics and applications.

Progesterone is a naturally occurring hormone essential for maintaining a healthy pregnancy and managing various reproductive conditions. 

Provera, on the other hand, is a synthetic progestin derived from Progesterone.

It mimics the effects of Progesterone and is commonly prescribed to regulate the menstrual cycle, support hormone replacement therapy, and serve as a contraceptive. 

Provera and Progesterone have potential side effects and risks that should be considered and discussed with healthcare providers before starting treatment. 

Remember, the decision between Provera and Progesterone should be made by consulting a healthcare provider who can assess individual circumstances and tailor the treatment plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions