Prometrium is a form of natural progesterone. It is only available by prescription.  Prometrium is the only type of progesterone that can be taken by mouth.  It was made available in 1998 and is considered an oral micronized progesterone (OMP).  Because the progesterone is "chopped up" or micronized the body can absorb and effectively use this progesterone.

Prometrium, long used in Europe, received official approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration. Prometrium Capsules are an oral micronized progesterone used with estrogen therapy. This drug is used to prevent cell overgrowth in the uterine lining in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women who still have an intact uterus.

Prometrium is a good progesterone product for women who do not do well on another class of progesterone's called progestins.  The most common form of progestin is Provera.

What does it do?

Progesterone and/or progestins are important for women to take when they are
taking an estrogen product.  The role of progesterone and progestins is to maintain the integrity of the uterine lining, to prevent cellular overgrowth.  Through this action progesterone and progestins prevent uterine cancer for women who are taking estrogen.  In fact, by taking progesterone and /or progestins with estrogen a woman does not have any greater risk of developing uterine cancer than a woman who does not take estrogen.

Prometrium Capsules is a progesterone made from yams that is structurally identical to natural occurring progesterone found in a woman's body. Micronized means the progesterone is "chopped up" which makes it easier for the body to absorb. The suggested dose for Prometrium Capsules for use in HRT (hormone replacement therapy) is 200 milligrams taken orally once a day, in the evening, for 12 in a row days, every menstrual cycle.

Laura E. Corio, M.D., is a board-certified ob/gyn whose thriving New York City practice attracts women from across the country because of her unique blend of no-nonsense medical advice, extensive knowledge of alternative approaches, and close collaboration with patients. According to Dr. Corio in her book The Change Before the Change the benefits of progesterones like Prometrium are:

• Relieves PMS symptoms
• Relieves painful periods
• Controls abnormal bleeding
• Relieves insomnia
• Relieves depression
• Relieves anxiety
• Builds bone
• Does not negate the positive cardiovascular effects of estrogen
• Controls endometriosis

Dosage & Side Effects

Prometrium comes in an oiled based capsule (if you have a peanut allergy you can't take Prometrium because the oil in the capsule is peanut oil) in doses of 100 milligrams per capsule and 200 milligrams per capsule. Also, women who have liver disease, or who have known or suspected breast cancer, or pregnancy shouldn't take Prometrium Capsules. Some common side effects of this medication are breast tenderness, dizziness, abdominal bloating, and vaginal discharge.

Natural Progesterone Cream
Should you use it?
John Lee, M.D., is a well-known advocate of the benefits of natural progesterone. He has several very popular books and many women follow his advice. He recommends natural progesterone cream to balance your hormones, eliminate premenopausal symptoms, and make you feel better. His therapy is based on the theory of "Estrogen Dominance." What is the scientific evidence supporting the theory of "Estrogen Dominance"? We asked several respected authors in the field about Dr. Lee's theory and present their opinions. What do you think and what experience have you had?
Find out more.

Depression and Mood Swings
by Linda Ojeda
Linda Ojeda, author of Menopause without Medicine says, "A number of herbs have been proven to calm anxiety and reduce tension.  It is advantageous to use herbs in conjunction with positive changes in nutrition and lifestyle." She also talks about using Ginkgo biloba, Passion flower, Skullcap and other natural ways to improve mood.

Vagifem Vaginal Suppository
Vagifem is an estrogen product made by Pharmacia Corporation   It is an estrogen (estradiol) tablet that is inserted into the vagina.  It's primary use is to stop vaginal itching, pain during intercourse, and perhaps increase sexual arousal - better known as atrophic vaginitis which occurs with the lowered estrogen levels associated with menopause and post menopause. Vagifem works locally right at the vaginal level and is not absorbed through out the body. 

Natural Progesterone Cream
Natural Woman, Natural Menopause
more Healthy Living Books
Holistic & Natural Medicine
Aromatherapy
Synthetic vs. Natural?
Natural Progesterone Cream

Fit & Trim Support Group

book | video
more weight loss books
more Fitness Videos

more Personal Health Books
HotFlash Meno Support

Personal Massager with Heat

more Spa & Wellness