Natural Progesterone Vs. Bio-Identical Progesterone

Progesterone, sometimes referred to as the "happy hormone," is a hormone produced by the ovaries and is essential for the healthy functioning of a woman's reproductive system. Progesterone is associated with using fat for energy and facilitating a healthy sex drive. It also acts as a natural antidepressant and helps to initiate sleep. If a woman's progesterone levels change, this can throw her entire system for a loop.

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Significance

• During menopause, progesterone levels change, which leads to unpleasant results for many women. If progesterone levels are too low, women report symptoms such as weight gain, anxiety, sleeplessness and headaches. If this hormone is too high, women can experience depression, fatigue, low sex drive and vaginal dryness.

History

• In order to balance progesterone levels, the first medical solution, created in the 1970s, was to produce a synthetic or manufactured version of this hormone called progestin. Because progestin is a non-natural product, according to the Women in Balance website, it does not always react the same way in a woman's body as natural progesterone would. Synthetic progestin also increases the risk of breast cancer, according to Women in Balance.

Potential

• In 1998, oral bio-identical progesterone was developed. Natural progesterone comes in a topical cream form, too. Bio-identical means that it is identical to what the body produces. Because the development of bio-identical progesterone is fairly new, there are no conclusive studies as to its superiority over progestin. However, many doctors believe, according to the Woman to Woman website, the natural form is much safer because it mimics the body's natural progesterone levels.

Warning

• If you are considering taking a bio-identical progesterone, the cream is preferred, according to the Eden Natural Products resource, because the creams do not involve the digestive system. It also suggests that women be aware of creams that contain wild yam, mineral oil or animal products or by-products as these will lead to the production of too much estrogen in the body.

Expert Insight

• According to the National Institutes of Health, bio-identical hormone therapy is most likely safer to conventional or synthetic therapy. The NIH is in the process of conducting a two-year study due to come out in 2010. If you are considering any type of hormone therapy, take it under the strict supervision of your doctor.