What is Progesterone?

Progesterone is a hormone produced by the ovaries that regulates the menstrual cycle and supports pregnancy. During perimenopause (the years leading up to menopause) and menopause (when periods stop), progesterone levels drop significantly.

This decline can lead to:

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Trouble falling or staying asleep

• Mood changes (anxiety, irritability, or mild depression)

• Irregular or skipped periods

• Fatigue

Progesterone levels can start to decline as early as your late 20s. It decreases significantly after age 30 and becomes non-existent by the time you reach menopause, which typically occurs in your early 50s ( average age of menopause in the US is 51.

Can Progesterone Be Taken Without Estrogen?

Yes—progesterone therapy can be prescribed without estrogen. This is an important option for women who:

• Cannot take estrogen due to health conditions

• Prefer hormone therapy without estrogen

• Want natural relief for sleep problems and hot flashes

Research shows that progesterone alone can help reduce night sweats, hot flashes, and insomnia.

Benefits of Progesterone-Only Therapy

• 🌙 Better Sleep – Helps you fall asleep and stay asleep through the night.

• 🌡️ Fewer Hot Flashes & Night Sweats – Many women notice fewer frequent and less severe episodes.

• 😊 Mood Support – Can help ease mild mood changes without worsening depression.

• ❤️ Safe Option – Considered safe for most healthy women after menopause, with no major concerns for breast cancer or heart disease risk when used alone

Forms of Progesterone Available

• Oral Micronized Progesterone Capsules – The most effective and well-studied form. Usually taken at bedtime (commonly 300 mg).

• Progesterone Creams – Easy to find but often less effective than capsules for menopause relief.

• Vaginal Progesterone – Occasionally used, but less common for menopause symptoms.