Progesterone Overview Phoenix AZ

1. Progestogen refers to any hormone replacement product that produces similar effects on the uterus as progesterone, the naturally occurring form of the hormone produced in a woman's body. Progestins are synthetic versions of progesterone.

2. Progesterone helps protect the lining of the uterus, also known as the endometrium.

3. Progestogens are included in combination hormonal therapies with estrogen to prevent endometrial buildup, which can lead to cancer.

4. After menopause, you will likely produce very little, if any, progesterone.

5. Progesterone is believed to be partly responsible for symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as breast tenderness, feeling bloated and mood swings.

6. In addition to menopausal hormone therapy and birth control, progestogens may be used to treat a variety of conditions, including menstrual irregularities and endometriosis; breast, kidney or uterine cancer; and appetite and weight loss in AIDS patients. Progesterone, the natural hormone, may also be used to prevent pregnancy loss and preterm labor.

7. Progestin-only contraceptive products may be an attractive option if you are unable to take a combination product with estrogen or are concerned about estrogen's side effects. They are appropriate for older women, especially smokers who want to use an oral hormonal contraceptive method, and postpartum and/or breast-feeding women.

8. Progestin-only mini-pills are highly effective for preventing pregnancy (about 97 percent) if taken correctly. They must be taken at the same time every day to be effective.

9. Progestogens are sometimes used as a diagnostic aid to determine whether estrogen is being produced. In a "progestin challenge" test, a woman takes progestin pills for five or more days. When the progestin is stopped, bleeding ensues if estrogen is present.

10. Hormone-based therapies are not the only option for birth control or for relieving menopausal symptoms. Ask about and discuss all the options with your health care provider.

For the rest of this article, questions to ask your health care professional, information on diagnosis, treatment, prevention and more, click here.

Author: Editorial Staff of the National Women's Health Resource Center

Ole Borch Christensen , MD

602-978-1500
Thunderbird Medical Center
Glendale, AZ
Ole Borch Christensen , MD AMA members must adhere to the AMA's Principles of Medical Ethics Primary Specialty (Self Designated)(note): GYNECOLOGY Gender: Male Languages: GERMAN SPANISH OTHER Location: View Map Glendale, AZ 85304 Office Phone: 602-978-1500 Office Hours: Day Open Close Monday 7:00 AM 6:30 PM Tuesday 7:00 AM 6:30 PM Wednesday 7:00 AM 6:30 PM Thursday 7:00 AM 6:30 PM Friday 7:00 AM 6:30 PM Saturday Sunday Accepts New Patients: Yes Hospital Admitting Privileges: Thunderbird Medical Center, Glendale, AZ Health Plan Participation: HEALTHPARTNERS HEALTH PLANS CIGNA HEALTHCARE OF ARIZONA INC. - PHOENIX MARICOPA MANAGED CARE SYSTEM AETNA U.S. HEALTHCARE (ARIZONA) BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD OF ARIZONA PARTICIPATES WITH OTHER PLANS Accepts Medicare: Yes Accepts Medicaid: No Group Practice Participation: Desert West Obstetrics And Gyn Medical School: KOBENHAVNS UNIV, DET LAEGEVIDENSKABELIGE FAK, KOBENHAVN, DENMARK Residency Training: MARICOPA MED CTR, OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY Major Professional Activity: INACTIVE American Board of Medical Specialties Certification: Copyright 2006 American Board of Medical Specialties. All rights reserved. Obstetrics & Gynecology