This post was most recently updated on September 19th, 2023
Progesterone hormone plays a significant role in menstruation by increasing and decreasing during the cycle to signal the ovaries. During ovulation, it thickens the uterus lining, preparing it for pregnancy. It is then reduced in case of no pregnancy, hence menstruation.
However, your body can produce little progesterone hormone due to irregular ovulation or stress. Hormonal imbalances due to disorders or medication can also cause little production of this hormone and have adverse effects. There are supplemental drugs you can take to boost the production. Here is how to do it safely.
Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions
Firstly, it’d be best to follow the instructions from your healthcare provider when taking supplemental drugs like micronized progesterone. Following the instructions is essential because doing so incorrectly can be harmful and may not work.
To do so, you will read the instructions carefully to understand the dosage and frequency. It is best to be consistent by taking the medication at the same time daily and only stop after consulting the healthcare provider.
Take note of potential drug interactions
Medication such as birth control pills that suppress ovulation and alter hormonal balance can interact with progesterone supplemental drugs. Others, like anti-seizure medication and herbal supplements, can also have the same effect.
Therefore, it will help to take note of the potential drug interactions and avoid them when taking progesterone supplements. Informing your healthcare provider about the other medication you are on is the best way to go about it.
Take Precautions
Like other drugs, progesterone supplemental may have mild effects that range from mood changes, nausea, and headache to breast tenderness. Therefore, it’d be best to consider the potential and act accordingly for safety.
To do so, you will discuss these effects with your healthcare provider and report them immediately should they appear for proper guidance. Doing so will ensure that the benefits outweigh the risks.
Monitor your symptoms closely
Symptoms of progesterone hormone deficiency include irregular menstrual periods, heavy bleeding, and hot flashes, among others. When taking supplements, you should monitor your symptoms closely to determine whether the drugs work.
Monitoring it with your healthcare provider’s help is essential as they can decide to increase the dosage for efficiency. In addition, you will be able to discover the side effects and address the issues when you do so.
Store the medication properly
Storing the progesterone supplemental drugs would be best to retain their potency safely. You should avoid extreme heat, direct sunlight, and moisture: the elements that can break the drug and render it ineffective.
Some manufacturers label the proper storage conditions. Therefore, it will help to check it when you buy the supplement to ensure proper storage and safe usage.
Progesterone hormone deficiency has various effects, like irregular periods that are too long or short and sometimes absent. This effect can cause difficulty getting pregnant and is associated with mood changes besides fatigue.
It can also cause vaginal dryness, which results in discomfort during intercourse. Supplemental drugs like micronized progesterone help boost this hormone and regulate the menstrual cycle. However, it will help to use them safely for efficiency.
