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PROGESTERONE: A Body-Identical Hormone for Safer Menopausal Symptom Management

Updated: Jun 14, 2024


Progesterone is formulated from the Mexican yam, which has a chemical with the same molecular formula as our own progesterone. It is a type of progesterone categorized as "micronized progesterone." It shares a molecular structure identical to the natural hormone progesterone found in the human body. This quality makes it a "body identical" hormone, distinct from unregulated, compounded bioidentical hormones. Women undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with an intact uterus typically require a progestogen like progesterone to counteract the effects of estrogen and minimize associated risks. Essentially, if you have a womb and you are taking estrogen, it is necessary to also take progesterone.

How is Progesterone taken?

Progesterone is available in 100 mg capsules, and the recommended dosage can vary:

  • For women who have had periods in the last 6-12 months: The usual dose is two 100 mg capsules taken together each evening for two out of four weeks on a repeating basis. However, taking one daily at night and stopping for 3 days when periods start works well in perimenopause.

  • For women without periods for over a year: The usual dose is taking one 100 mg capsule daily for 25 days, followed by 3 days off. However, for ease of taking and for the continued benefit of helping with sleep, taking one daily without a break is the common practice.

Progesterone is preferably taken on an empty stomach to optimize absorption. If your stomach is not empty, your sleep may not be as restful, and you may experience bloating the next day. This is because the absorption of progesterone is increased when taken on an empty stomach.


Are there side effects with Progesterone?

Initial side effects may include vaginal bleeding, abdominal bloating, lower abdominal discomfort, or breast tenderness. If these symptoms persist or worsen, seeking guidance from a menopause doctor or GP is advisable. Some women may also experience mood changes, though this has become less common with advancements in formulations. Discussing alternative options with a healthcare professional is recommended if mood changes persist.


Advantages of Progesterone compared to older progestins:

As a body-identical hormone, progesterone generally causes fewer side effects than older progestins. Studies indicate that women taking progesterone do not have a higher risk of blood clots or heart disease compared to older progestins.

Additionally, the small increased risk of breast cancer associated with HRT appears to be lower for progesterone in the first five years. Beyond this period, the risk is very low, even lower than with older progestins.


In summary, progesterone offers a favorable side-effect profile and reduced risks compared to older progestogens, providing women with a safer and effective option for managing menopausal symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.



By Dr. Purity Carr

GP & Menopause Doctor

Harvey, Western Australia

 
 
 

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Welcome to Purity Health Women’s Menopause and Wellbeing Centre™

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At Purity Health, we believe in living life to the fullest. Dr Purity Menopause Clinic, in association with Samy Medical Group, is dedicated to providing safe, evidence based information and care in perimenopause, menopause, histamine related conditions, and metabolic health.

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We recognise that there are many myths and misunderstandings surrounding menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy, HRT. One commonly repeated belief is that oestrogen causes breast cancer. This is an oversimplification and does not reflect the full body of evidence.

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Here is the truth.

At Dr Purity Carr Menopause Clinic, we are committed to providing accurate information and personalised care.

Follow us on #drpuritycarr

Extensive evidence shows that for women within 10 years of menopause or under the age of 60, the benefits of HRT generally outweigh the risks.

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For women who start HRT during perimenopause or within 10 years of menopause, there is often no need to stop purely based on age. Ongoing use should be individualised and guided by clinical review.

Even for women who are further beyond menopause or over 60, starting HRT may still be considered under the guidance of a knowledgeable practitioner, with careful assessment of risks and benefits.

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A Broader Approach to Women’s Health

Dr Purity is a General Practitioner with a special interest in menopause care, taking a holistic, systems based approach to women’s health.

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In addition to menopause, her work now includes:

Hormone health, including perimenopause and menopause
Histamine related conditions, including suspected mast cell activation patterns
Metabolic health, including weight management, insulin resistance, and inflammation
The interaction between hormones, the immune system, and the nervous system

Many women experience symptoms that do not sit neatly within one system. Hormones do not operate in isolation. There is often an overlap between hormonal changes, histamine activity, and metabolic dysfunction. This integrated approach allows for a deeper understanding of symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, poor sleep, weight gain, brain fog, and chronic inflammation.

 

Dr Purity’s Focus on Care

Dr Purity focuses specifically on menopause, histamine balance, and metabolic health. She works to identify underlying drivers of symptoms and supports women through evidence based, personalised care.

Please note that Dr Purity does not replace your general practitioner. The experienced doctors at Samy Medical, part of the same medical system as Purity Health, are available to manage your broader healthcare needs.

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