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Menopause Matters magazine ISSUE 81 out now. (Autumn issue, September 2025)

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Author Topic: Progesterone  (Read 4745 times)

Allana1133

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Progesterone
« on: February 18, 2024, 03:24:14 PM »

Hi was wondering if someone could give me advice? Iv stopped Everol patch as tummy always sore and bloated. Was on 25 Everol with 100 Utrogestan every night. I’m still using Utrogestan as need it or will not sleep. Is this safe in it own as is this dose too high? Only stopped 5 days ago. Feel great but don’t want progesterone overload. My tummy has also went down in size which is fantastic. Many thanks allana.
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Ana21

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Re: Progesterone
« Reply #1 on: February 18, 2024, 05:07:51 PM »

Hi Allana1133

There is a delicate balance between estrogen and progesterone.  Any change in this balance can cause abnormal bleeding.  Progesterone breakthrough bleeding occurs when the progesterone-to-estrogen ratio is high.  The endometrium thins and may become atrophic due to lack of estrogen and prone to frequent, irregular bleeding.  This is a common occurrence with progesterone-only contraceptive methods.  I've experienced this because I don't absorb transdermal estrogen.  So don't be surprised if you eventually experience some spotting.

I take oral progesterone.  I also find it improves my sleep, as well as reducing hot flushes and night sweats.  I can understand why you want to stay on it.
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Allana1133

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Re: Progesterone
« Reply #2 on: February 18, 2024, 07:51:49 PM »

Thank you ana21. Does that mean il be ok but if any break threw bleeding il no my progesterone Is high so start back on the estrogen patch. Iv not had any break through just yet. I’m postmenopause.
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Ana21

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Re: Progesterone
« Reply #3 on: February 18, 2024, 08:34:06 PM »

Hi Allana1133

Any change in MHT should be discussed with your doctor.   Your doctor may suggest you try a lower dose of estrogen to see if that reduces the side effects and allows you to continue the progesterone.   Once you stabilize on a lower dose, you may find it's not as difficult to increase.  There are some women on this forum that take very low doses of estrogen and benefit from them.

It's not going to do any harm in the short term to continue with the progesterone, but you may not feel as well on it as time goes on.  The symptoms of hormonal imbalance will eventually become apparent. 

Assuming no other causes, spotting will be a sign of too much progesterone.  Your doctor can help you find the right balance for you.  There's usually some experimentation involved.  At least you've learned that you get along with progesterone. 
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Allana1133

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Re: Progesterone
« Reply #4 on: February 18, 2024, 09:52:28 PM »

Yes your right ana21. When I was younger I was on mini pill as I have high blood pressure from 18 years old. I felt really well. I must be good with progesterone. Iv spoke to soon tho as for abt 1 hr Iv had a banging headache like a migraine plus staring to go hot and sweat. Also my tummy inside is sore again. Nightmare. Might try my Everol 25 tomorrow. Thank you so much for your advice.
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CrispyChick

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Re: Progesterone
« Reply #5 on: February 18, 2024, 10:10:00 PM »

There are lots of woman take prog only. Not many on this forum, or perhaps in the UK. But progesterone only is certainly popular in other countries where being estrogen dominant is recognised.

I'm in peri and cannot tolerate extra estrogen and absolutely do not need it. Yet it's all the NHS offer me. Unfortunately utrogestan is too strong for me, or I'd probably take that on its own. Instead I've had to resort to the mini pill.

Take your time. Feel it out. Xx
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sheila99

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Re: Progesterone
« Reply #6 on: February 18, 2024, 11:44:27 PM »

I think you should discuss this with your gp, I'm not convinced it's safe. If you were peri and producing your own oestrogen it's likely to be safe. In meno with no added oestrogen there's a danger the lining will get too thin and bleed. There are plenty more options you can try for oestrogen so it's very likely you will find something that suits you. It's usually the progestin that causes problems.
 You may get some bleeding in the first 3-6 months of a new conti regime. Other than that any post menopausal bleeding should be investigated as a cancer risk.
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