Every woman who is considering or is already using natural progesterone cream should know these 10 important tidbits of information about this bio-identical hormone cream. We find many women use the cream incorrectly, or are worried about how they are using it. The more you know about natural progesterone cream, the better able you will be able to support your progesterone levels correctly.
1. Apply natural progesterone cream correctly. If you are not applying it correctly it may not be effective. The best areas for application are places in which capillaries are dense and close to the surface of the skin, such as:
- Face
- Neck
- Upper Chest
- Breasts
- Inner arms
- Palms of hands and feet
Avoid putting NPC on the fattiest areas of the body, as this may inhibit proper absorption. Fat can store the progesterone, rather than allow it to move into the bloodstream, circulate, and be utilized by the body. In addition, rotate where you apply the cream each time you use it to avoid saturation.
John R. Lee, MD, pioneer in women’s health and tailored hormonal balance programs, suggests transdermal application of progesterone cream is the best. This way is known to mimic the body’s natural release of progesterone, and be more effective at influencing progesterone levels than oral progesterone.
Board-certified OB/GYN physician, Dr. Christiane Northrup confirms that “The most physiologic way to take hormones is through the skin—either with a cream or a vaginal gel. That way the hormone goes right into the blood stream without having to be metabolized by the liver.”
2. Estrogen dominance may become worse when first beginning natural progesterone cream. When first introducing progesterone back into the body after an extended period of progesterone deficiency, the estrogen receptor sites ‘wake up’ (are stimulated), enhancing the action of estrogen for a short period of time. This is a sign that the body is responding well to the progesterone, even though at the beginning it can exacerbate estrogen dominance symptoms such as breast tenderness and swelling, spotting, fluid retention, dizziness, hot flashes, fatigue, headaches and nausea. This can be very worrisome, but should level out and go away over the next couple of cycles, as progesterone levels increase.
3. Stress affects progesterone levels. How? Stress increases cortisol levels. Cortisol competes for progesterone receptors; the higher the stress, the more cortisol the body produces. This means that those receptor sites may be occupied by cortisol rather than progesterone, which may require a temporary increase in progesterone supplementation. If you are not managing your stress levels, the natural progesterone cream you are currently using may not be effective because of elevated cortisol levels. Make stress reduction part of your plan to balance hormone levels.
4. Severe progesterone deficiency requires more time to increase progesterone levels with progesterone cream supplementation. It takes anywhere from 4-12 months to bring progesterone levels back up in women with very low progesterone levels. Following a loading dose protocol may help to bring the levels up quicker, but consistency of use over an extended period of time is best. For women who are trying to conceive, a realistic plan is going to help achieve pregnancy and prevent miscarriage due to progesterone deficiency. Give yourself many months of progesterone cream supplementation before even trying for a baby, to help prevent the likelihood of miscarriage.
5. Is it okay to use natural progesterone cream if you don’t know if you have low progesterone levels? It would be best to know if you have low progesterone levels or not. You would not want to work to increase progesterone levels if you don’t need to. Over time, using progesterone cream when it isn’t needed may create a situation in which too much progesterone is in the body. That being said, there are many clear signs of progesterone deficiency and testing is relatively easy. There are at-home saliva hormone tests and your doctor can test your levels as well.
6. A one-time overdose of progesterone cream is virtually impossible. That being said, it does not mean you should use more than the suggested dosage. It does mean that the female body can withstand high levels of progesterone in the body relatively well because, during the last trimester of pregnancy, the placenta is producing 300-400mg of progesterone a day. If you accidentally use too much or apply the cream more than 2 times in a day, you should be fine. Even if you used a whole bottle in a day, it may just make you feel very sleepy. Be sure you always stay within the recommended dosage guidelines recommended by your healthcare practitioner or on the label of the product you are using.
7. Split dosage up between morning and nighttime application. Apply the cream once in the morning and once in the evening before bed. Using it before bedtime may help some people to sleep better. Splitting the dosage up ensures 8-12 hours of sustained delivery. If you apply it all at one time, only once a day, it will still only last 8-12 hours, leaving the other 12 hours where you are not receiving any. The split dosage ensures optimum progesterone levels are maintained.
8. Each cycle, stop using natural progesterone cream only when you have confirmed you are NOT pregnant. This means if you are trying to get pregnant while using NPC, be sure to continue it until you have definitely confirmed you are not pregnant.
If you get a positive pregnancy test result, continue on with the progesterone cream. Be sure not to skip a day of use of NPC in pregnancy. Doing so may result in a sudden drop of progesterone levels, which may cause a miscarriage. Have two bottles on hand at all times to ensure you don’t run out.
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine published a educational bulletin in the journal Fertility and Sterility about “A classic series of studies conducted more than three decades ago demonstrated that P [progesterone] secretion by the CL [corpus luteum] is absolutely required for the success of early human pregnancy… These and other related studies demonstrated clearly that the success of early pregnancy depends on P that derives primarily from the CL before 7 weeks’ gestation…”
This confirms ages old knowledge of the importance of healthy progesterone elves in early pregnancy. If a woman’s corpus luteum isn’t producing progesterone at levels required to sustain pregnancy, natural progesterone cream may offer support. Talk to your doctor about using natural progesterone cream in pregnancy.
9. Discontinue use of progesterone cream by weaning off of it over time. When you decide it is time to stop supplementing with natural progesterone cream, simply reduce the amount you use each time you apply it. Do this on the last cycle you plan on using it. If you are pregnant, do not do this until at least the 16th week of gestation, when the placenta takes over progesterone production.
10. There are certain health conditions in which natural progesterone cream supplementation should be avoided. If you have a history of gestational pemphigoid (dermatosis of pregnancy), jaundice of pregnancy, severe active liver disease, hepatitis, rotor syndrome, Dubin-Johnson syndrome, or unexplained/abnormal vaginal bleeding, you should not use natural progesterone cream.
Want to know more? Be sure to read over our complete Progesterone Fertility Guide and our Progesterone & Fertility Q&A!
- Rollins, Catherine P.(2007). 10 Things Every Woman Should Know About Natural Progesterone. A Making Plans Production. Retrieved from: http://www.Natural-Progesterone-Advisory-Network.com [as of May 2018 this website is no longer available for public access]
- Venes, D. (2017). Tabers cyclopedic medical dictionary. Philadelphia: F.A. Davis Company.
- Lipman, F. (Marsch 16, 2010). The ABCs of HRT. Retrieved from https://www.bewell.com/blog/the-abcs-of-hrt/
- Lee, J.R. and Hopkins, V. (2006) Dr. John Lee’s Hormone Balance Made Simple; The Essential How-to Guide to Symptoms, Dosage, Timing and More. Ch. 9, pp 104-107. New York: Grand Central Life & Style. Hachette Book Group
- The Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine in collaboration with the Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (November 2008). Progesterone supplementation during the luteal phase and in early pregnancy in the treatment of infertility: an educational bulletin. Volume 90, Issue 5, Supplement, pp S150–S153. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.08.064. Fertility and Sterility. Retrieved from https://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(08)03459-6/fulltext
Practicing natural health and herbalism for over 18 years, Dalene received her training and herbal certification under the guidance of Lynn Albers at Yarmony Mt. Herbal College in Colorado in 2000. She went on to become a Certified Birth Doula at Birthingway College of Midwifery in Portland, Oregon in 2007. As a Birth Doula, Dalene has helped to bring many new lives in to this world. Dalene has written 280+ fertility articles and with her vast array of herbal and holistic healing knowledge has helped 1000’s of women on their journey to Motherhood.
Can taking progesterone (I’m taking Progon – USP progesterone, orally) help boost your bodies ability to create more of its own progesterone over time? I’m working with an NP, and since my levels are so low, and so is my estrogen, we decided to try progesterone to “jump start” my body. I’m trying to be proactive since one day I hope to have children. Can taking progesterone do that? –“jump start” your own body? I hope to not have to be on it forever, and that my body will work itself out. Thanks!
Sometimes that can happen, but working on the underlying cause of low hormones is what will truly do that. Since you are working with an NP I am sure they are looking at that and addressing it.
7 years ago I was prescribed 50gm progesterone 3% (30mg/ml) cream when I had problems as I transitioned through menopause. I am now 59 and am still taking it. 14 days on14 days off. My ND doctor says it’s fine to stay on it….my MD says there is no reason to….I’m conflicted. Concerned about withdrawal symptoms as well as long term use. Any advice welcomed. Thanks you
Dear Dianne,
Our area of expertise isn’t in post-menopausal support. I’m sorry I can’t really weigh in. I guess my best advice is to ask both practitioners why they think the way that they do and are guiding you differently.
My best as you sort this out!
I have a family history of breast cancer. Can progesterone cream be a contributing factor in that respect? I used it for a couple of months and really liked it, but I am afraid to continue because of this.
Dear Angela,
Progesterone is thought to protect against breast and other fertility-related cancers. Natural progesterone cream is not known to cause cancer or negatively affect hormone-driven breast cancer. When plant components are altered or boosted chemically is when you may start to see some side effects because these are more drug-like in nature. A growing body of evidence suggests altered and synthetic products may affect fertility or impact cancer risk. Be especially cautious before taking hormone-containing drugs as they can cause serious disruptions in hormones, increase risk for reproductive cancer or affect fertility.
Given you are afraid, do talk to your healthcare provider and pharmacist about this/ask them your question(s)!
I just found out I am pregnant and started progesterone cream the same cycle I got pregnant…..I was given a compounded progesterone bio identical cream….. I have read that it is best absorbed through labia and rectum and is more of a direct absorbtion . Can I use my prescribed cream that way??? looks like a normal moisturizer? I dont want it building up in my skin. I use forearms and back of knees so far.
Dear Chantelle,
Congratulations!
Please call or talk to your compounding pharmacist, doctor, or his/her nurse to discuss how best to apply the cream you have. Progesterone cream is not known to build up in the skin. That said, it can in adipose tissue or fat under the skin. This is why its application is suggested on areas of the body with little fat.
Our best!
Can a male with NASH use progesterone cream? Liver enzymes are normal. Thanks
Dear Eddie,
I’m not clear on the need/want for progesterone cream, so please consult a medical healthcare provider to discuss it’s use.
I’m 49 and began experiencing estrogen dominance symptoms a few months ago. It was like PMS only 100 times worse (very irritable, weight gain, short tempered, no libido, overly emotional). I began using natural progesterone cream, 20mg twice daily, on my inner arms or neck/chest. When my cycle started, I stopped using it for the recommended 1 week. The first 30 days went great! No more symptoms. This month, my period started on 1/5, ended 1/9; started again on 1/17 and didn’t end until 1/24; and now it started a 3rd time today! (1/30). Am I using too much? I’m following the directions to the letter on the bottle, but I’ve been on my cycle more than off this month. Suggestions?
Dear Jackie,
This could be a case of symptoms temporarily getting worse before they get better (as in #2 above). Often this is referred to as “break through bleeding” and is known to be caused by a shift in the balance of estrogen and progesterone.
My suggestions would be to check in with your healthcare provider to ensure the dose you are using is appropriate for your needs, and then move forward monitoring each cycle to document continued shifts.
I’ve been using 1/2 pump (1x in AM/ 1x in PM) of OTC Progesterone Cream (20mg) for the last 1 or so. I’ve noticed water retention and general anxiety and irritability have improved but I’ve had TERRIBLE TERRIBLE back cramps and stomach cramps the 2nd week on the cream – almost like I’m going to have a period. Is this normal? Am I stressing my adrenals? Should I discontinue use?
Dear Katie,
Because pain was that bad, it really would be best to check in with your doctor. When in your cycle are you using the cream? Could it have been that an ovarian cyst ruptured? Progesterone cream general suggested use is during the two weeks before menstruation starts. If it is near when your period is supposed to start and you have not actively tried to conceive, progesterone cream could be stopped. Perhaps it will be helpful to see our Progesterone Fertility Guide here…
Hello, I have been on a compounded progesterone cream, 200 mg., for about 15 years or so. I always just trusted my doctor but doing some research now and I am learning that is too high and for too long. I am quite concerned. Blood test results today show I am at 9.5 ng/mL. (tested day 21). So everything I am reading is that is not too high. I thought for sure it would be off the charts! I am having issues the last 2 weeks of my cycle (PMS, cystic acne) recently which is why I am researching. I am 40 years old, eat very well, move/exercise regularly, meditate…I take very good care of myself. I am sensing I should stop but need some guidance desperately! Thank you in advance!
Dear Tami,
It seems that a check-in with your doctor or compounding pharmcist, or even a natural healthcare practitioner near you could be the most helpful. Perhaps the symptoms you have are a result of needing to shift the dose you are using. PMS and cystic acne are both linked to hormonal shifts/imbalance. Did your blood work only show progesterone levels, or were there other hormones tested to? It may be helpful to have a full hormone panel to see if there is an imbalance.
I strongly disagree with the statement that says if you have abnormal bleeding do not use progresterone cream. I had abnormal bleeding for 80 days with little respite inbetween. I became anemic due to the massive amounts of blood I was losing. The doctors tried synthetic progesterone, birth control, all to no avail. They were stumped, and I was still bleeding. My friend gave me natural progesterone and after 3 days my bleeding stopped. After 2 years of taking this daily, I am doing great. My regular doctor did a blood test to make sure I was alright and I am. This cream saved me.
I read Dr John Lee’s book, and have been taking progest for years, accompanied by saliva tests to check all hormone levels (results from October 2018 below). I have too much progest in my tissues now. Do you have any idea how long it will take for my body to use it up? I am prepared to pay for the answer. Many thanks for any help.
Cortisol DHEA Ratio
5930 442 10.7
Estradiol Prog. Ratio
0.3 pg/ml >5000 pg/ml >100
Testosterone 35.0 pg/ml
Dear Helen,
I have read from other resources that it can take three to six months for transdermal progesterone to
be cleared by the body. I imagine the length of time will differ for each woman depending on the amount used, for how long it was used and amount of adipose tissue one has. This may be something to talk about with your healthcare provider as well.
My best!
Hi! My name is Ann and I am a Swedish woman at age 46.
For 2 years I felt terrible. My periods began to get irregular, came more often 21-23 Days, and I got problems sleeping, anxiety, fatigue, night sweats, heart palpitation, hair loss, tender breast, fibrosic breast, joint pain, sore muscles etc.
Swedish healtcare know noting about bioidentical progesterone.
I began too google my symptoms, and realised I had too low progesterone.
I started to use progesteroncream in low doces. Now I use 300 mg/day 10% Matriarch.
Is this too much? Should i have estrogen also? test says estrogen level 1,2 pg/ml ref 0,5-5,0. Progesterone 3501 pg/ml ref 500-3000.At this time I also had IUSMirena.
Regards Ann
Dear Ann,
Thank you for reaching out to us!
I am not clear on what “10% Matriarch” means, but 300mg bio-identical progesterone is more than is generally suggested. General suggested use is 40mg a day, 20mg applied in the a.m. and another 20mg applied in the p.m.. Given the test results shared, progesterone does not seem to be needed, nor is any estrogen (as it seems within the reference range). It really is going to be best to find a practitoner, whether medical or natural, to work with one on one.
Im 46 years old. I take kikoro cream, which is a natural progesterone from wild yams. Ive taken this for a few years on an irregular basis.
My period are pretty regular. I take the kikoro due to uterine fibroids and results showing high estrogen after miscarriage. I also have a maternal aunt who had breast cancer from estrogen levels.
I tend to take the cream when my breasts are sore. My indicator that estrogen levels are too high.
Today when I took the cream, 3 days after period, due to breast soreness I immediately began spotting again.
Is this normal and should I discontinue progesterone cream?
Dear Sommer,
It may now be time to have your progesterone levels tested to determine if you in fact still need supplemental support, or perhaps the dose needs to be less.
Hello
At 47 I had a full Hysterectomy & was put on Premarin. I am now 60 and have started to lose my hair. My doctor says it could be down to androgens/testosterone levels to high as I don’t have or take proestrogen, or it could be hereditary. So to find out which can I take bio identical progesterone to lower/balance out the testosterone level and see if my hair starts to grow again? Would be so grateful for any information that can help with this problem.
Many thanks
Dear Sandra,
We know many women use bio-identical or natural progesterone cream in menopause and beyond. This however is not my area of expertise. I would redirect you to Dr. John Lee’s work on progesterone and menopause, or your doctor or pharmacist for guidance. Consider also learning about the herb Saw Palmetto.
My best as you see answers.
Sandra, have you asked your doctor about Spironolactone (generic: Aldactone)? It is an androgen blocker prescribed for women experiencing male pattern baldness from high testosterone levels. I was prescribed it for hormonal acne after menopause. It is also a diuretic somewhat and prescribed for various heart conditions. It has multiple uses. It may be a big help to you in balancing out your hormones. 😊
Hi,
Two years ago my progesterone levels were low with estrogen dominance (I take supplements for this). My Dr. slowly increased the progesterone cream dose up to 50m a day. When I’m ovulating I’m depressed & exhausted day 10-15. So I had to start using the cream from day 10 to 27. I’ve always had on time periods. However, 9 months ago I started having periods every 2 weeks. I use 5m cream, 25m pill now. If I use the cream, I get my periods early. If I only take the 25m pill at night, my period goes back to normal. My Dr says I need the cream to balance estrogen dominance. I’ve active ebv virus & pneumonia and my Dr says because of the viruses it’s hard to balance my hormones. Any thoughts?
Dear Carolyn,
I’m sorry you are dealing with all of this. Frequent bleeding outside of at the beginning the the cycle can indicate that too much progesterone is being used or that it is being used at the wrong time of the cycle. Have you had your levels rechecked in the past 9 months? It seems the extra 5m cream is perhaps too much give you shared when only taking “the 25m pill at night your period goes back to normal”. I suspect you are actively addressing the EBV and pneumonia, which is important to be doing as well.
It my be best to find a naturopath to work with you and your doctor if wishing for more natural approach all you are dealing with and certainly so if wishing to conceive naturally.
Take care!
hi,
I dont have low progesterone levels but i have unexplained fertility issues for the last 4 years i have been recommended natural progesterone by a lot of people.
Would this mess up my natural balance or is it fine to go ahead and use it?
Thanks
Sam
Hi Sam!
We feel it’s best to only use progesterone is one has low progesterone levels. If one of the people you mentioned was your healthcare provider who can suggest a proper dose and monitor you while using progesterone, then that advice surpasses our stance of course.
Have you seen our guides What About Unexplained Infertility? and Explaining Unexplained Infertility. Both contain tips that may resonate with you.
Would l be able to start using progesterone cream l had a full hysterectomy 30 yrs ago and only ever had estrogen implant pellets.l have never felt well some say I need progesterone others say no, any information would be greatly appreciate (my test showed every very low progesterone and testosterone for that matter)
Thank you Jenni
Dear Jenni,
I am sorry you have never felt well. I encourage you to find a practitioner who works with progesterone cream to work with. This is going to be important as you may need a lower or higher dose that is generally suggested. We want you using progesterone cream correctly. Do you know of a naturopath, women’s doctor, compounding pharmacist or herbalist near you whom you can reach out to for support or a referral?
The reason you are prescribed estrogen only is because this is the group in which risk of cancer is NOT increased by HRT but decreased. It is taking progesterone that increases risik of cancer hower for those with wombs it is necessary when taking estrogen to prevent cancer from the lining of the womb building up. You said you had a hysterectomy 30 years ago from which I’m gathering you may well have passed the age of natural menopause, unless you are continuing estrogen for specific health reasons you can stop taking estrogen and see an endocrinologist – medical experts in hormones.
Please help. My period has become unbearably heavy 8 months ago, I can’t leave the house due to flooding. I just found out I have a 2cm fibroid: choices seem to be Mirena or deal with it. I am 35, I may want another child, I don’t want to risk losing my uterus if the fibroid gets worse. I had Mirena several years ago and HATED it. I can’t stand hormones, I suffer from every symptom in the book and I can’t fathom the thought of being a slave to them until menopause. I am overweight, 40lbs in the last 3 years. Do you think I could benefit from progesterone cream assuming my estrogen is too high because I am overweight? How would I use it if I’m on Mirena and do not ovulate? Thank you!!
Dear Kat,
I am sorry for all that you are going through! We can not suggest the use of progesterone cream with Mirena unless a healthcare provider will guide you. We also suggest testing to first determine the need to support progesterone levels.
That said, do visit our guide The Best Natural Remedies for Uterine Fibroids… and learn more about a product called Slow Flow (click that link and scroll down on the guide to Heavy Menstruation).
I hope this is a helpful place to start!
I just started my cream and noticed my period is going over two weeks now. I feel fine and even had next to no cramps this month. I’m just concerned if the extended bleeding is normal. I started taking progesterone cream to help eliminate period migraines.
Dear Kristen,
I am not clear on how you are using progesterone cream. It is not to be used while bleeding/during menstruation, so it will be best to stop its use. General suggested use of progesterone cream is for the two weeks before a period starts, which is typically after ovulation until menstruation starts. It is then paused until after ovulation the following cycle.
Hello! I missed 3 months of period, was prescribe progesterone pill days, 10 mg, after that my period started. I waited for the next one and started applying cream day 8th (as it was in instructions). My period was very light this time, but I keep spotting with red- brown for 2 weeks by now. It just never stops. I read here that women start day 12th I am confused. Should I stop using it and let my period stop first. And then when should I start? I didn’t have saliva test. And I have history of fibroids 10 years by now. I am 37. Thank you
Hello Julia!
Be sure to let the doctor who prescribed progesterone to you know what is happened. It could be one of three things, either that this is estrogen dominance (as is often an issue with uterine fibroids) temporarily getting worse, or that the dose it too much for your needs, or because it’s being applied at the wrong times of the cycle. There are several different ways to use progesterone cream. Applying it before ovulation is known to effectively stall ovulation.
I think it’s best to first discuss this with your doctor.
Is it okay to use the progesterone cream along with taking estrofactor pills?
Dear Sherry,
This is best determined with the help of your doctor or midwife. Please do reach out to them.
Hi,
I have been using natural progesterone for a while now and it really helps with not only PMS symptoms but mood during the rest of the month and acne. I had very bad painful hormonal acne that went away after using the cream but everytime I stop using the cream like you’re supposed to I break out all over again and then when I start it up again my face clears up. Would it be okay to use it every day in a small dose?
Dear Crystal,
This is not suggested without guidance from your healthcare provider or naturopath. Using progesterone cream all cycle long isn’t often suggested long term. When used in this way it is likely to stop ovulation from happening. You may already use some of the tips in my guide, but consider also these
6 Ways to Promote Hormonal Balance to Prevent Cyclic Acne if you do not already. Perhaps they will help too!
I’m 62 post hysterectomy and oophorectomy for the past 12 years. In the past 3 months I have started to use progesterone cream at 20 mg/day (emerita brand) It helps my sleep well but my breasts are enormous. I do have an anxiety condition which I receive counseling for and I take clonazepam prn and 88mcg of levothyroxine . Do I cut back on progesterone to 10 mg? or should I continue on for a few more months as my body adjusts to not having any hormone supplementation since 2005. I want to have increased libido, and more vaginal moisture but with the enormous breasts I feel like it’s the days of pms all over again. I’m also very teary but I don’t know if that’s also part of the anxiety.
Dear Cynthia,
Post menopausal hormone support is actually not our area of expertise. You could try decreasing the amount of progesterone used, but in all honesty it would be best to have the help of a practitioner who can guide you in using it based on your needs and what you are experiencing.
Hi
I’ve been without a cycle for over a year Andy have PCOS. I’ve been reading about natural progesterone and stated taking it the beginning of September along with other natural supplements to help bring on a cycle. Long story short I got a period a couple weeks after and stopped the progesterone during this time. Since I don’t have a normal cycle I stopped, the progesterone until day 12 and stated it up again days 12-26 and again my cycle started. Now should I continue to take the progesterone or do I stop when menses occurs. I am ttc but am still working to regulate my cycle and see if I can start ovulating. Any input would be great, thanks
Dear Misty,
Progesterone cream is best stopped again during menstruation until ovulation or cycle day 12 again. When you begin to track ovulation to pinpoint exactly when it happens, the cycle day you begin progesterone cream application may shift and this is just fine.
Im 45 years old and TTC, I just started using an over the counter progesterone cream this cycle. My levels came back 4.3 which I understand is really low to sustain or even become pregnant. Im unsure if I should stop using the cream at CD 27, (I have a 28 day cycle) as the package instructs, or wait for my period to begin before I discontinue use? What if I become pregnant and the sudden loss of progesterone causes miscarriage? If I continue with the cream will my period begin on its own if Im not pregnant? Where I live pregnancy tests are expensive so taking a few HP test every cycle is not in my budget. What other options are there? Help!
Hello Sondra!
Deep breaths! I’m here to help!
Progesterone cream is best stopped at cycle day 28 unless you try to conceive. If you actively try to conceive it will be best to test for pregnancy before stopping progesterone cream, or be charting your basal body temperature (BBT) which costs only the amount of a proper thermometer. For some women in the absence of pregnancy, a period will start on its own while using progesterone cream, but for others it does not. There are women who need to stop progesterone cream for menstruation to start. When using progesterone cream, it is best to continue it into early pregnancy with the support of your healthcare provider or midwife.
Could you purchase pregnancy tests online for less than they cost at your local stores? Would you consider using progesterone cream as a part of a complete natural fertility program for a minimum of three cycles before actively trying to conceive to see if the body relearns to maintain progesterone levels on its own? If it does, then you may not need to use progesterone cream the cycle you begin trying to conceive which would alleviate the worry about sudden drops in progesterone causing miscarriage.
…just sharing my thought to hopefully help you think thru the options as you continue on your journey. I hope this helps!
Hello, After dieting and exercise and losing weight and my cycle still not starting. I decided to start NPC on September 1, instead of the synthetic kind.My period started 2 weeks after using 1 pump twice a day. I got my first period after a year of not having a period. After reading the article I realized I should have started a loading dose (2 pumps twice a day) for three months to establish a regular cycle.After my next period I started with 2 pumps twice a day for a week but the symptoms were really strong so i went back to one pump. After 3 days of going back to 1 pump twice a day my cycle started 2 weeks early. Did I do something wrong? Should I go back to 2 pumps after this period
Dear Christ-Lynn,
Switching from two pumps to one could have been the reason for your cycle starting early. It is a drop in progesterone whether it happens naturally or when progesterone cream is stopped that cause menstruation to start. It seems your body responded better to using only two pumps daily, so without knowing more about you, I would suggest going back during the two weeks before your period starts.
Hi. I really need to know which is the best progesterone cream and if it helps in a high vaginal atrophy problem. I just don´t want to continue using synthetic hormones.Thanks
Dear Patty,
It is going to be best to seek the support of a healthcare provider familiar with bioidentical hormones or natural progesterone cream. It is my understanding that vaginal atrophy is caused by lowering levels of estrogen as is common for women nearing the end of perimenopause or moving through menopause.
I started using Progesterone Cream and it was really helped with my PMDD symptoms. This is my first month using it and have been 9 days late on my period. Is this a symptom of using the cream? Should I stop it in order to begin my period?
Dear Briana,
If you have not tried to conceive (ttc) and know you are not pregnant, progesterone cream can be stopped. Some women need to stop its use for menstruation to start. When actively ttc and using natural progesterone cream, do be sure to test for pregnancy before stopping it.
I have been using progesterone cream for about 6 months. I’m in my early 50’s, no ovaries, have uterus. I’m on a estrogen patch also. My concern is does the progesterone cream lose its efficacy over time? Also, I’ve heard varying opinions that a woman with a uterus on estrogen should stay on the cream and take no days off versus taking 3 to 5 days off. Just curious what your take is on that. Thank you. : )
Dear Sher,
I think continued use of progesterone is best determined through hormone tests or symptom review with a qualified healthcare professional. Replacement hormones don’t usually lose effectiveness, yet in general less is often better (everyone’s needs are different). I am not sure I would agree with the opinions to not stop progesterone cream use each month. I am not an expert however. Dr. John Lee suggests a monthly break from it’s use. Have you discussed this with your healthcare provider?
Have you thought about supporting adrenal health as well? The adrenal glands work to shore up hormone production when the ovaries slow down with age (or are removed).
Hello, I am confused with when to stop the progesterone cream and why it needs to be stopped during menstration. I use Nuvaring for birth control. My question is do I stop using the progesterone cream once my menstration is here or once I take out the Nuvaring for the week for my period to begin?
Also I am afraid to stop using it because before I started using it I was a total raving mad woman, crying and angry and just pushing people away. I don’t want to be that women again for 7 days out of the month.
Dear Vicky,
The goal in using natural progesterone cream is to mimic a natural menstrual cycle and help the body to establish its own cycle, including regular ovulation. Progesterone is typically not produced in large quantities by the body during menstruation. Using natural progesterone cream prior to ovulation is likely to stop ovulation.
Does your doctor know you’re using progesterone cream with NuvaRing? Could it be the NuvaRing that is making you so emotional?
We aren’t able to suggest progesterone cream use with hormonal medications without a doctors guidance. It may be best to ask him/her when it is best to use/stop. With that, progesterone cream used to support a healthy menstrual cycle is suggested only for the two weeks before menstruation starts not during a period or before ovulation.
Dear Elizabeth, Am a 50 y. old male and was advised to apply progesterone cream (1%) for a few weeks. Is there a difference between p. cream for women and for men? What is the danger of developing ‘moobs’ should I apply the cream 6x p. week for 2 months?
Dear Diversey,
This would be a better question asked of your doctor or pharmacist. I am honestly not certain of the dangers for progesterone cream use for men. It is probably going to be best to choose a pure natural progesterone cream that does not contain herbs. Emerita Pro-Gest is but one of I am certain many on the market.
My best as you naturally support hormonal balance!
Can i take progesterone cream and vitex at the same time?
Dear Chelsey,
Natural progesterone cream can be used if levels have been determined through testing to be low while taking Vitex.
Hello. Can you tell me what test results should look like when testing for progesterone?
Thanks.
Hello Gin!
The most appropriate time to measure serum progesterone is mid luteal phase (either 7 days after ovulation, or 7 days prior to expected menses). In general for women, most resources say that progesterone levels tested mid-cycle should fall in the range of 5 to 20 ng/mL or 15.90 to 63.60 nmol/L.
I have read through the Progesterone Cream Uses and I think it will be useful to me. The problem is that I don’t know where I could it. Please help.
Dear Makhanya,
You could perhaps order Fertilica Natural Progesterone Cream from the Natural Fertility Shop, or talk to your local pharmacist about the progesterone creams they offer.
I have started to use Progesterone (in cream) 3 weeks ago. I’m 52 (pre-menopause) . Now I have my period (for 4 month I hadn’t it) . Should I stop to use progesterone during my period (5 days) or continue? Thanks for your attention!
Dear Paola,
Natural progesterone cream is best stopped during menstruation, yes. You may appreciate the book What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Menopause (TM): The Breakthrough Book on Natural Hormone Balance.
I wanted to know if it is safe to use a progesterone/estrogen facial cream while taking birth control pills, I’ve been using a progesterone/estrogen cream 3 days so far, I’m 29 and using birth control pills and I want to know if there is any risk of lowering the effectiveness of the pill while using the cream.
Thanks in advance,
Dear Natalie,
I am not a doctor or pharmacist, nor have I heard of progesterone/estrogen facial cream to be honest. Please reach out to your doctor or pharmacist (a simply phone call may do). If you are concerned about the effectiveness of birth control and having intercourse, perhaps an additional form of protection would help ease the worry.
Hello,
I had my progesterone was confirmed low at 79.18pg/ml via a saliva test. My question is what dosage of progesterone do I use? I have read anywhere from 20mg to 250mg. I started using it this past month and noticed 5 days out from when I was supposed to start my period that I had brown spotting and some cramping. I reduced down to 40mg and all the symptoms went away. My period came about 9 days late. Was what I was experiencing normal and should have continued at the 80mg?
Thank you!
Dear Kristina,
Your doctor is best able to tell you the correct dose of progesterone for your needs. Do call him or his nurse. The dose may differ if you are taking an oral progesterone supplement versus using a progesterone cream.
So I’ve been using the Emerita cream twice daily for 2 cycles now after an early miscarriage. My first cycle used it from day 14 until my period appeared. This 2nd cycle I’m 3 days late, but have had 2 negative pregnancy tests. I do ovulate later than day 14, and had a short luteal phase prior to starting the cream. I’m worried I’ve just tested too early since I’m only 12 dpo. How do I know when to stop the cream?
Dear Lauren,
Did you begin progesterone cream before ovulation this cycle? Was the luteal phase the first cycle you used progesterone cream normal, meaning that it was at least 12 days long? Some women to have to stop progesterone cream use for menstruation to begin. This can differ from cycle to cycle as well, as the body adjusts to it and anything else you are doing to support fertility health. If you actively tried to conceive, it may be best to wait to test again before stopping the cream, but it you started progesterone cream before ovulation, ovulation may have been suppressed.
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