Femara or Progesterone , what is causing it?

With the Femara 5mg(CD3-7) and Progesterone (CD16-25) medication, I seem to have put on weight and become quiet moody. Have headaches in the evening usually on CD17 and CD18 and a bloated feeling most of teh days , have observed this in the last few cycles. Is this common with Femara or Progesterone. A bit worried bcos, I also have PCOS and with the weight increase it might hamper my chances of conception. Any advise what could be the reasonand I need to do ?

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
The progesterone is probably the culprit.  It is common to retain water while taking it, and it also causes mood swings and headaches.  If you were my patient, I would try a cycle without the progesterone added.  I would have you take the Femara on days 3-7 and then check your progesterone level on cycle day 21.  If your natural level is fine, there is no need to supplement during the second half of the cycle.  I would probably supplement with progesterone if you had a positive pregnancy test though.

Also, you may wish to consider trying Metformin together with the Femara.  Studies indicate a slightly higher pregnancy rate with the combination of the two.
Good luck!
Dr B

[NellyS]

Thank you for the guidance