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Progesterone
Protects your uterine lining on estrogen. Capsule or cream.
- Taken at bedtime
- Licensed US pharmacy
- Video visit first
Compounded micronized progesterone · capsule or cream
Micronized progesterone is FDA-approved to protect the uterine lining in women taking estrogen, and to treat missed periods caused by low progesterone.
- Form
- Capsule or cream
- How often
- Nightly, at bedtime
- Usually paired with
- Estradiol
- Filled by
- State-licensed US pharmacy
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Quick answer
Progesterone at a glance
Micronized progesterone is FDA-approved to protect the uterine lining in women taking estrogen, and to treat missed periods caused by low progesterone.
How it’s taken: capsule or cream, nightly, at bedtime.
It starts at $79/mo at Surna, with provider care included.
A prescription from a licensed provider is required. It’s filled by a state-licensed US pharmacy.
Updated
How Progesterone works
Estrogen alone can thicken the lining of the uterus and raise the risk of uterine cancer. Progesterone balances that effect.
It's taken at bedtime because it can cause drowsiness.
What to expect
Everyone responds differently. Your provider checks in and adjusts your plan along the way.
First weeks
Drowsiness or dizziness is possible, which is why it’s taken at night.
Months 1–3
Spotting or changes in bleeding patterns can happen as your body adjusts.
Ongoing
A regular review with your provider, alongside your estrogen therapy.
Is it right for you?
Your provider makes the final call after reviewing your health history.
Often a good fit
- Taking estrogen and still have a uterus
- Missed periods from low progesterone, before menopause
Usually not a fit
- Peanut allergy (the capsules contain peanut oil)
- History of breast cancer
- History of blood clots or stroke
- Liver disease
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding
Not a complete list. Tell your provider about all health conditions and medications.
Possible side effects
Most side effects are mild. Your care team is a message away if something doesn't feel right.
More common
Get medical help right away for
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, or pain and swelling in a leg
- Sudden severe headache, vision changes, or trouble speaking
- A new breast lump
For a medical emergency, call 911.
How to take it
Always follow the directions on your label and from your provider.
Take it at bedtime
Take your capsule right before bed.
Take it with estrogen as prescribed
Follow the schedule your provider gives you.
Get up carefully
Dizziness is possible, so take your time if you get up during the night.
Progesterone questions
Can the cream replace the capsule?
Not for protecting the uterine lining. If you take estrogen and have a uterus, your provider will prescribe the oral capsule for that. The cream is compounded and is not FDA-approved.
Do I need progesterone after a hysterectomy?
Usually not. It's mainly prescribed to protect the uterine lining, so women without a uterus often take estrogen alone. Your provider will confirm.
Will it help me sleep?
Some women say they sleep better, likely because it can cause drowsiness. It isn't prescribed as a sleep medication.
Related treatments
See if Progesterone is right for you.
Answer a few questions and a licensed provider will review your options.
Important safety information
Last updated
Do not take progesterone capsules if you are allergic to peanuts. Estrogens with progestins may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, blood clots, breast cancer, and probable dementia. Progesterone can cause drowsiness and dizziness; use caution driving or operating machinery. Report unusual vaginal bleeding right away.
Compounded medication, prepared by a state-licensed pharmacy for individual patients. Compounded drugs are not FDA-approved, and the FDA does not review them for safety, effectiveness or quality. Prescribed only if your provider determines it is clinically appropriate for you.
This is not a complete list of risks. Talk with your provider and read the full prescribing information or medication guide.