Progesterone Cream Side Effects

Progesterone cream is an alternative to hormone replacement therapy for menopausal and premenopausal women. There are many natural progesterone creams on the market that are available over the counter without prescription. If used properly, the creams pose little if any side effects.

Facts

• Progesterone is a female hormone produced in the ovaries when an egg is released. If the egg is fertilized, progesterone prepares the lining of the uterus to accept the egg. If fertilization doesn't occur, progesterone levels drop, signaling the beginning of menstrual bleeding.

Benefits

• Once menopause begins, progesterone levels fall to almost nothing, while estrogen continues to be produced. This unopposed estrogen leads to increased risk of breast cancer and overall hormone imbalance. Progesterone cream helps restore hormone balance, relieving the unpleasant side effects associated with menopause.

Effects

• Natural progesterone creams are safe when used as directed. The most common side effect is sleepiness. In rare instances, progesterone cream may cause a temporary increase in the customary menopause symptoms such as bloating, cramps, headache, hot flashes, mood swings and decreased sex drive.

Warning

• Since progesterone cream is fat soluble, it can be stored within fat tissue for long periods of time. If too much progesterone becomes stored, it could disrupt adrenal function, creating problems with DHEA, cortisol and testosterone hormones.

History

• In the early 1970s, Dr. Raymond Peat was one of the first medical practitioners to recognize the importance of treating menopause with progesterone instead of estrogen.