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Progesterone is a naturally occurring hormone produced primarily by the ovaries. In a regular menstrual cycle, very small amounts of progesterone are present prior to ovulation (the process whereby a mature egg is released from the ovary). The progesterone levels then rise sharply shortly after ovulation. Higher levels of progesterone are required to enable this hormone to carry out one of its major responsibilities, preparing the inner lining of the uterus (womb) to receive a fertilized egg. If the body determines that an egg has not been fertilized, the ovaries stop producing progesterone and menses begins within 24-48 hours. If fertilization (conception) occurs, the ovaries continue to produce progesterone which is important in maintaining the pregnancy.

Some women do not produce sufficient progesterone on their own and, therefore, may have difficulty conceiving. In these cases, supplemental administration of progesterone is required. Another instance where supplemental administration of progesterone is needed is in women who are undergoing certain assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures. Progesterone is administered along with other hormones to mimic a regular menstrual cycle. The combination of hormones signals ovulation and allows fertilization to take place. In either instance, the administration of progesterone has been shown to increase a woman's chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.

Several dosage forms of progesterone are commercially available or can be compounded by a pharmacist. Commercially available products include an intravaginal gel (Crinone®) or a micronized progesterone oral capsule (Prometrium®). Progesterone can also be compounded into various dosage forms such as an intramuscular (IM) injection, vaginal suppositories or oral troches (a dosage form designed to be slowly dissolved in the mouth).

The dose of progesterone is dependent upon an individual woman's need and the specific dosage form of progesterone that is selected. In order to mimic a regular menstrual cycle, therapy with progesterone is usually started a few days after ovulation and is continued until either menses occurs or pregnancy is confirmed. If pregnancy is achieved, treatment with progesterone may be continued for up to 10 to 12 weeks. By this time, the placenta (the organ in the womb that nourishes the fetus) is producing sufficient amounts of progesterone for the remainder of the pregnancy.

Some of the adverse effects associated with the use of progesterone include nausea, constipation, breast enlargement and tenderness, headache, drowsiness, vaginal discharge, joint discomfort, and depression. Progesterone may also cause fluid retention; therefore, patients with certain medical conditions such as epilepsy, migraine headaches, asthma, and cardiac or renal impairment require close observation.

For additional questions regarding the use of progesterone as a single agent or as part of an infertility treatment plan, contact your doctor or speak with a PharmaCare medication counselor at 1-800-218-6315.

Information in this Web site is intended to supplement, not replace, the medical advice you receive from your healthcare providers. If you have a question regarding any information contained in this Web site and how it pertains to your personal condition, please consult your physician.

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