Where does Natural Progesterone come from and
what are its effects?
Today
99.9% of progesterone is made in a laboratory.
However, the synthesized version of natural
progesterone is identical to naturally occurring
progesterone and is referred to as bio-identical
progesterone. The term “synthetic progesterone” is
often used to refer to products such as Provera®,
Cycrin® which are not identical to progesterone.
These synthetic versions have additional chemical
groups added to the progesterone molecule, for a
number of reasons. These reasons include improved
absorption (oral dosage forms) and making the
molecule patentable. Today, most bio-identical
progesterone is made from soy intermediates.
There is plenty of literature discussing the
benefits of hormone replacement therapy, however,
many people often confuse “natural and synthetic” as
“good and bad.” The fact is that bio-identical
hormones are available from your doctor, if you
specify and state you would prefer to use natural
hormones.
Just because the progesterone is synthesized in a
laboratory does not mean it is
synthetic or “bad.” The fact is, the natural form of
progesterone, unlike the component diosgenin, which
is not found in the human body, is better for you,
even though it is made in a lab. It could be more
dangerous to use a hormone like substance, like
diosgenin, that could be harmful to your health.
Natural Progesterone Has No Side Effects
It is often claimed that natural progesterone has
no side effects, however, it is a hormone, and does
have a number of side effects that you should be
aware of, these include:
- a feeling of euphoria (based on the amounts
used)
- breast tenderness
- possible acne upon initial use as body
adjusts
- possible suspension of ovulation if used
prior to ovulation
- possible spotting in women just starting
menopause
- alteration of cycle time
- may prevent sperm maturation in men when
used in excess
- hives, skin rash, itching
- increased sensitivity to sunlight
- nausea and headaches
You
have a choice as to whether you want hormone
replacement therapy or not. Your doctor can
prescribe natural (bio-identical) progesterone if
you are not comfortable with the synthetic versions
like Provera® and Cycrin®. There are many options
for hormone replacement therapy, but make sure you
know the facts and avoid wasting your money on
products that don’t work, or could be harmful.
Natural Progesterone Cream |