Progesterone is a steroid hormone, precursor of the hormones of the adrenal cortex and androgen hormones. It is also produced by the corpus luteum, ovary and placenta, as well as cholesterol. Moreover, it is responsible for the preparation of the female reproductive organs towards pregnancy and uterine preservation in the conditions necessary for development of the embryo. During the second half of pregnancy the corpus luteum regresses and the hormone is secreted by the placenta. It is also involved in regulating the menstrual cycle and it is useful for the resolution of tubal or endometrial problems.
What is Progesterone?
The preparations of Progesterone ensure the continued release and facilitate this hormone, thus allowing the body to use it as needed.
How should Progesterone be taken?
Progesterone can be administered in several ways:
- In the form of cream for vaginal topical use;
- In the form of vaginal pessaries;
- In the form of tablets to be taken orally;
- In the form of solutions for intramuscular injections;
Side effects associated with Progesterone
Among the most common adverse effects of Progesterone are included:
- Central disorders: headache, nervousness, headache, insomnia, somnolence, tremor;
- Endocrine disorders: gynecomastia, libido disorders, menstrual disorders, breast tenderness, vaginal discharge;
- Dermatological disorders: acne, hirsutism, pruritus, urticaria, rash, seborrhea, skin discoloration.
Taking Progesterone may also cause:
- Gastrointestinal disorders: diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, dyspepsia, flatulence, gastritis;
- Blood disorders: purpura, anemia;
- Alteration of the liver function;
- Musculoskeletal disorders: muscle cramps in the legs, pain in the bones and joints;
- Kidney disorders: nocturia (the need to urinate at night), cystitis, dysuria (difficulties and irregularities in the issue of urine);
- Respiratory disorders: asthma, dyspnea, hyperventilation, rhinitis.
It is important to remember that topical administration is able to significantly reduce the occurrence of both acute and chronic side effects.
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Progesterone
Progesterone should be administered with caution in patients with epilepsy, kidney failure, heart failure, asthma, migraines, high blood pressure and in the case of those at risk for thromboembolism.
Since progesterone may cause dizziness, caution is advised when performing hazardous activities and/or requiring prolonged attention and coordination in time (motor vehicle or dangerous machinery).
With regard to the administration of progesterone during pregnancy, this is indicated only during the first trimester of pregnancy, while in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy it is associated with cholestatic jaundice and hepatocellular diseases. Moreover, since progesterone is excreted in breast milk, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with this drug.
