Progesterone Therapy: What It Is and How It Works

Progesterone is a hormone your body makes naturally, mainly in the ovaries and placenta. When levels drop or are out of balance, doctors may prescribe progesterone therapy to restore normal function. It’s a common tool for women dealing with menstrual problems, fertility issues, or menopause symptoms.

When Doctors Prescribe Progesterone

Typical reasons include a luteal‑phase defect that makes it hard to sustain a pregnancy, irregular periods, or heavy bleeding. It’s also used as part of hormone‑replacement therapy (HRT) for menopause, and sometimes to help manage symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Your doctor will decide based on your specific hormone profile and health history.

Benefits, Risks, and Common Side Effects

On the plus side, progesterone can stabilize your menstrual cycle, support early pregnancy, and reduce the risk of uterine lining overgrowth. It may also lessen hot flashes and improve sleep when combined with estrogen in HRT. However, it isn’t risk‑free. Some people experience mood swings, bloating, breast tenderness, or mild weight gain. More serious concerns include blood‑clot risk, especially if you smoke or have a history of clotting disorders.

Progesterone comes in several forms: oral pills, vaginal gels or suppositories, topical creams, and injectable shots. Your doctor will pick the one that fits your lifestyle and the condition being treated. Oral pills are convenient but may have more liver processing; vaginal options deliver the hormone directly to the uterus with fewer systemic effects.

Dosage varies widely. A typical oral dose for HRT might be 100‑200 mg daily, while a vaginal gel could be 100‑200 mg applied once a day. Injections are usually given once a week or every few weeks. Always follow the exact schedule your prescriber gives you—missing doses can throw your hormone balance back off.

Before you start, tell your doctor about any history of blood clots, breast cancer, liver disease, or migraines. Those conditions can make progesterone therapy riskier. Your provider may order baseline blood work and schedule follow‑up tests to keep an eye on hormone levels and liver function.

When you’re ready to fill the prescription, choose a reputable pharmacy. Online stores can be tempting, but not all are licensed or safe. Look for pharmacies that require a valid prescription, display a physical address, and have clear contact information. If something feels off—like a price that’s too good to be true—skip it and check with your doctor or a local pharmacy.

Finally, keep an open line with your doctor. Report any new symptoms, especially headaches, leg pain, or unusual bleeding. Adjustments to the dose or form may be needed as your body responds. With the right monitoring, progesterone therapy can be a helpful part of your health plan.