is progesterone cream safe?

[lynn50tobe]

I am 49 and think I have been going through perimenopause for a few years( periods irregular, increased anxiety, heart racing, trouble with memory, occasional hot flashes).The latest is the inability to have an orgasm. That made me go see my doctor who prescribed Prempro. My maternal grandmother died with breast cancer. I have a history of seizure disorder and on Dilantin. After 2 days of taking Prempro I decided not for me. I think I need Progesterone and would like to know if others use the cream and what brand. Or any advice appreciated. Thank- you.

[LisaH1960]

HI Lynn,

I’m surprised that your doctor would have put you on PremPro, given that recent studies have shown that it may double your chances for getting breast cancer. Was she aware that you had a history of breast cancer in the family?

I was on HRT (Premarin) for four months, and had terrible problems with pain in my joints and breasts. I was a bit disappointed, as I felt my doctor really should have discussed the negative side-effects more thoroughly.

I have not personally tried progesterone cream, but I have read that transdermal applications of hormones may less risky than those administered orally.

Several years ago I was prescribed Zoloft when I was going through a difficult time, and one very unpleasant side-effect was that I couldn’t reach orgasm. I have since read that several other antidepressants cause similar problems, including Paxil, Effexor, Prozac and other SSRI’s. Ironically, some of these are now seeking FDA approval for the treatments of menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, and I have to wonder how many women will be told that they’re libido is likely to suffer.

Lisa

[stella5349]

I think progesterone is a really good thing for us suffering these problems - but I dont think it is the "all" cure thing either.

There are so many criteria's to look for :

Estrogen dominiant- resistant - depleted
Progesterone
Testasterone
Cortisol- Adrenal
Iron-and do stress FERRITIN, not just RBC

B-12, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, Vitamin D…plus others your doctor may recommend.

And check out that thyroid and iodine level too.



I don't think the OTC creams are good either because they are not formulated exactly to what we need - so an over dosage could happen too.

You need to get your hormonal panel looked at by someone involved in bio identical hormones. Not just any MD that will run a lab on you.

These doctors will check out the "ratios" of hormones and not lump you into a certain level in a total count.

Finding a person like this is challenging. Do you homework in your area - They are there.

[quietgal]

Hi Lynn - I have been researching the use of natural progesterone creams and learned a lot of valuable information from a book tiltles "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Premenopause".  If you are interested, you should be able to get it online or at your local library.