How do I know if I need progesterone in perimenopause?
In the early stage of perimenopause, it’s common to experience low progesterone symptoms while the menstrual cycle is still regular. In late perimenopause, when you begin skipping periods, symptoms of low progesterone may be more pronounced. Symptoms of low progesterone include: Short luteal phase of menstrual cycle. Irregular periods or missed periods is one of the most common signs of low progesterone. Women may also experience heavy bleeding during periods. Infertility. Low levels can also cause difficulty in conceiving as it affects the ability of the uterine lining to support a fertilized egg.Low progesterone can trigger symptoms like irregular periods, migraines, mood swings, sleep issues, and even infertility issues. Causes range from PCOS, thyroid disorders, and stress to menopause and lifestyle factors. Testing is key since progesterone levels naturally rise and fall with your cycle (and pregnancy).
What is the best progesterone for perimenopause?
When I say “progesterone” I mean the molecularly identical hormone to that produced by the corpus luteum and not progestins. I always recommend oral micronized progesterone (OMP), rather than transdermal progesterone for perimenopausal women. Is It Safe to Take Progesterone Without Estrogen? Yes, and in fact, for many women in perimenopause, it’s the best place to start. Unlike estrogen, which can increase the risk of endometrial thickening if taken alone, progesterone is generally safe to use by itself 9 (especially in bioidentical form).
What happens if you take progesterone without estrogen?
Taking progesterone without estrogen is safe for many women, and it can minimize symptoms like hot sweats, sleep problems, and vaginal dryness. Progesterone doesn’t cause weight loss or gain in and of itself, it works by reducing the effects other hormones have on your body – and too much or too little can have noticeable effects.