In the body, cholesterol is the primary building block for progesterone and
many other hormones. Progesterone is produced by the corpus luteum of the
ovary (lower levels are also produced by the adrenal glands in both sexes).
Progesterone is a precursor to other steroid hormones: this distinguishes
natural progesterone from synthetic progestin’s, which are not capable of
performing this function. The one similarity between the synthetic progestin’s
and the natural progesterone is that each can stimulate uterine bleeding or
menstrual flow, if needed. Natural progesterone can be derived from
Dioscorea yams or soybeans, and the progesterone isolate or molecule is
bio-identical to the progesterone molecule produced in the body. Synthetic
progesterone’s are chemically synthesized from the plant derived progesterone,
or from the male hormone, testosterone, which might be obtained from horse
urine. These are prescription drugs and categorized as "progestin’s" or
"progestogens"; they do not duplicate the molecular structure of natural
progesterone. However, the similarity is close enough, in order to allow the
"synthetic" to bind to progesterone receptor sites, but they do not provide
the full range of beneficial functions that the natural progesterone would
provide. These synthetic analogs cause confusion in a woman's body and
actually reduce or interfere with the production of natural progesterone. They
also cause a wide array of undesirable side effects
Many companies today are producing "wild yam" creams that contain a
concentrated extract of wild yam, Dioscorea barbasco. Wild yam
contains diosgenin that can be converted to natural progesterone in a
laboratory; however, the body does not have the ability to convert wild yam
into progesterone. The body may absorb wild yam extract through the skin,
which may in turn have some beneficial effects, yet research on both oral and
transdermal applications of wild yam extract demonstrate no change in
progesterone levels in the body.
United States Pharmacopoeia (U.S.P.) Progesterone simply means progesterone
that exactly duplicates the progesterone naturally produced in the body, or
"bio-identical". The term "U.S.P." does not designate what source the
manufacturer used to synthesize the progesterone. The title "U.S.P.
Progesterone" differentiates natural progesterone from synthetic progestin’s
or progestogens.
No, using natural progesterone should not interfere with the effectiveness of
oral birth control pills, providing you keep taking the oral birth control
pills as prescribed. Birth control pills may be progestin only pills, or a
combination of progestin and estrogen. Adding supplemental progesterone will
only increase the progesterone’s effect in the body, and may in fact reduce
some of the undesirable side effects of birth control pills in some women.
Progesterone binds with progesterone receptor sites in the brain and causes a
calming effect on the central nervous system. In excessive amounts,
progesterone can have a relaxing effect on the brain, and may cause
drowsiness. Most frequently, any side effects from natural progesterone are
associated with usage, and can be easily alleviated by changing the amount and
frequency of the dosage. In the PMS group, using too much progesterone over a
protracted length of time (one to four months) can delay a period a day or two.
Discontinuing the progesterone will cause the period to start, and women with
irregular periods might notice some spotting at ovulation upon beginning
progesterone usage. What's indicated here is that the period is trying to
regulate on a 28-day cycle. With continued usage, periods will become regular
and the spotting will be alleviated. Women who are beginning menopause might
also notice some spotting when they begin using natural progesterone. This too
should be alleviated with continued use. The post-menopausal and osteoporosis
age group should not have any side effects at all. In a very small group of
women who are extremely sensitive, progesterone of any kind may aggravate
hormonal headaches or PMS symptoms.
For women in their reproductive years (still menstruating), progesterone
levels remain low from menses until ovulation. Progesterone rises as a
consequence of ovulation and should remain high through the last two weeks of
the cycle, after which time progesterone and estrogen levels drop. This
stimulates the shedding of the endometrial lining. Using progesterone during
the luteal phase (days 14-28 in a 28-day cycle) mimics the normal cycle of a
menstruating woman.
For women who are post-menopausal (no longer have menstrual cycles), taking a
5-7 day break from using progesterone each month can be beneficial for several
reasons:
1. Hormone receptors seem to retain their sensitivity (to hormones) when such
hormone levels drop in a cyclical pattern.
2. A drop in progesterone allows for the shedding of the endometrial (lining
of the uterus) if the endometrial has thickened over the course of the month.
One of progesterone's functions is to mature or stabilize the endometrial
growth that estrogen promoted.
3. A regular break from progesterone supplementation lessens the potential for
progesterone levels to build up beyond the physiological range.
No. Natural progesterone in a cream or fluid base comes from Dioscorea yams or
soybeans, which are technically food products and all of the other
ingredients, aside from a trace of some cosmetic ingredients, are natural.
There are several different types of PMS recognized. Women who suffer from
certain types of PMS may have a relative excess of estrogen caused by
decreased progesterone levels. This condition is often termed "estrogen
dominance." Common symptoms of estrogen dominance include breast tenderness,
bloating, irritability, and mood swings. If your PMS is affected by decreases
progesterone levels and estrogen dominance, supplementing progesterone during
the second half of your cycle (from the time of ovulation until you start
bleeding) may help reduce PMS symptoms.
Progesterone stops further proliferation of endometrial cells. I advised such
women to use natural progesterone form day 6 of the cycle to day 26 each
month, using one ounce of the cream per week for three weeks, stopping just
before their expected period. This treatment requires patience. Over time (4-6
months) however, the monthly pains gradually subsided as monthly bleeding in
these islets becomes less and less and healing of the inflammatory sites
occurs. The monthly discomfort may not disappear entirely, but becomes more
tolerable."
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Uterine fibroids?
While there is little research regarding non-surgical treatment of uterine
fibroids, using progesterone has helped some women's fibroids to stop growing
until they reach menopause, when the fibroids naturally shrink due to lowered
estrogen levels. Estrogen stimulates the growth of fibroids; therefore, many
women with fibroids have used natural progesterone to help balance what is
often an estrogen dominance (relative excess of estrogen) problem. Dr. John
Lee related he had a patient with a grapefruit-sized fibroid which reduced to
the size of a walnut after a year of natural progesterone use (Pro-Gest®).
Natural progesterone may also help stabilize heavy bleeding and prolonged or
irregular bleeding caused by fibroids. Since uterine fibroids are generally
stimulated by excessive estrogen, products that help tone the liver and uterus
may be beneficial as well. It is the liver's role to break down excess
estrogen. A product to consider is ground flax seeds (2 tsp. per day) which
have been shown to decrease circulating estrogen levels by binding to estrogen
in the intestines. You may also be interested in reading Susan M. Lark, MD's
book, Fibroid Tumors & Endometriosis: A Self-Help Program.
(Westchester Publishing Co.) for more information about self-management of
uterine fibroids.
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Fibrocystic breasts?
There are many factors that contribute to this condition, one being a higher
level of circulating estrogen, indicating a hormone imbalance.
Progesterone helps to normalize this imbalance.
-
Vaginal dryness?
Vaginal dryness can occur in women of all ages for various reasons, but this
condition is usually more common in post-menopausal women. Natural
progesterone in a fluid or cream base can be used around the vaginal area to
help alleviate this problem. Natural vaginal lubricants are also helpful. Dr.
John Lee, in his book Natural Progesterone, The Remarkable Roles of a
Remarkable Hormone, writes: "Conversely, estriol is the estrogen most
active in the vagina, cervix, and vulva. In cases of post-menopausal vaginal
dryness and atrophy, which predisposes a woman to vaginitis and cystitis,
estriol supplementation would theoretically be the most effective and safest
estrogen to use."
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Can natural progesterone and estrogen help with amenorrhea?
Amenorrhea can be the result of prolactin-producing pituitary tumors, anorexia
nervosa, or intense long-distance running associated with undernourishment.
these conditions cause cycle irregularities and ovulatory disturbances, which
in turn affects the levels of circulating estrogen and progesterone. If a
woman is not ovulating, she will most likely develop an estrogen deficiency,
which can be brought under control by natural progesterone, and possibly some
natural estrogen. If the time between ovulation and menstruation (luteal
phase) becomes less than ten days, a progesterone deficiency can develop,
because during the luteal phase is when progesterone is produced. The use of
natural progesterone and some sort of nutritional regimen should cause
menstruation to resume, If it foes not, it is strongly recommended that
progesterone therapy be continued, to prevent accelerated bone loss associated
with estrogen deficiency.
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What causes hair loss?
The most common cause of hair loss is low thyroid function, which is common
among menopausal women. Other causes include, but are not limited to: changes
in hormone levels (decrease or increase), increased testosterone, increased
stress (physical or emotional), and heredity. Any time sudden hair loss is
experienced, one must consider events which took place up to three months
prior to the hair loss, as factors affecting hair loss can often take up to
three months to have an effect. Subsequently, any treatments for hair loss
should be given at least three months to have noticeable effects. Dr. John
Lee, in his book, What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Menopause,
discusses the issue of hair loss at menopause: "When progesterone levels fall
as a result of lack of ovulation, the body responds by increasing its
production of the adrenal cortical steroid, androstenedione, an alternate
precursor for the production of other adrenal cortical hormones..
Androstenedione conveys some androgenic (male-like) properties, in this case,
male pattern hair loss. When progesterone levels are raised by natural
progesterone supplements, the adrostenedione level will gradually fall, and
your normal hair growth will eventually resume. Since hair growth is a slow
process, it may take four to six months for the effects to become apparent."
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How can natural progesterone help with conception?
Use the same recommendations as for a menstruating woman. Ideally, use the
serum or cream after ovulation, when progesterone levels normally
rise. Increased levels of progesterone before ovulation may theoretically
suppress ovulation. Normally in each menstrual cycle, the ovary begins to
mature several ova (eggs). At the time of ovulation, one of the ova bursts out
of its follicle and begins its journey through the fallopian tubes to the
uterus. Once the follicle has released the egg, it becomes the "corpus luteum"
and begins to produce progesterone. Dr. John Lee, in his book, What Your
Doctor May Not Tell You About Menopause, states that ". . . the chief
cause of early loss of pregnancy is now thought to be luteal phase failure, in
which the ovarian production of progesterone fails to increase sufficiently
during the first several weeks after fertilization. Maintaining the secretory
endometrium (uterine lining) and the development of the embryo are dependent
upon adequate luteal-supplied progesterone." If you have been having
difficulty conceiving, you may wish to discuss progesterone testing and
supplementation with your physician.
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Breast-feeding and natural progesterone?
According to the Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology,
1991, the amount of the steroid secreted in mother's milk is not
effectively absorbed by the infant. Also, according to Dr. Katherine
Dalton--whose studies on the use of progesterone in prenatal care, recorded in
the British Journal of Psychiatry, 1968---Progesterone in the natural
form: protects the fetus from miscarriage, increases the feeling of well-being
of the mother, including the prevention or reduction of toxemia and morning
sickness; increases the potential IQ of the child; produces calmer, less
colicky babies; contributes to greater success of breast feeding and the
enhancement of lactation (unopposed estrogen, in excess, may reduce the flow
of breast milk); and helps to prevent or diminish the symptoms of post-partum
depression.
In the case of hysterectomy, doesn't some form of estrogen need to be
used?
Not necessarily, if the hysterectomy involves removal of the uterus only,
natural progesterone alone should be adequate in controlling menopausal
symptoms and helping to prevent osteoporosis. In the case of a complete
hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and ovaries), it is recommended to start
using natural progesterone only. If no relief occurs within 2 weeks to a
month, some estrogen is probably necessary (as natural as possible). Herbs and
foods containing phytoestrogens should also be considered.
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A transition from hormone replacement therapy to natural progesterone?
Natural progesterone is simply an alternative to hormone replacement therapy.
Synthetic progesterone has many side effects, and synthetic estrogen can be
dangerous to your health; especially if taken without progesterone. If someone
is taking both synthetic estrogen and progesterone, a gradual step might be to
at least substitute natural progesterone for the synthetic, then gradually
back off the synthetic estrogen and let the natural progesterone take over. If
hot flashes or any other symptoms occur and the natural progesterone doesn't
clear them up within 1 to 2 months, some natural sources of estrogen
might be added to the program, including dietary sources found in plant foods.
Can estrogen be used without natural progesterone?
Definitely not. It is very important that natural progesterone be used with
any form of estrogen. The physiological effects of unopposed estrogen include,
but are not limited to; creating proliferative endometrium; increased risk of
endometrial cancer; increased risk of ovarian cancer; increased risk of
fibrocystic breasts and breast cancer; impairing blood sugar control; salt and
fluid retention; depression and headaches; interfering with thyroid hormone;
increased blood clotting; decreased libido; reduced oxygen levels in all
cells; increased risk of gall bladder disease; and slightly restrains
osteoclast function (in bones).
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What's the difference between synthetic and natural progesterone?
The body naturally produces three main forms of estrogen: estrone (E1),
estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3). Estradiol is converted to estrone in the
liver. considered the most carcinogenic form of estrogen, estrone (E1)
increases after menopause, when the adrenal glands play a more prominent role
in hormone synthesis than do the ovaries. Synthesized in the ovaries and
metabolized in the liver, estradiol is the most physiologically active form of
estrogen. When taken orally, estradiol is converted into estrone in the small
intestine. Increased serum estradiol levels are linked to an increased risk of
breast disease and endometrial cancer. Estriol is the shortest acting estrogen
and has a weaker effect than both estradiol and estrone. Estriol remains
intact when supplemented orally, i.e., estriol is not
converted into estrone, as is true with estradiol supplementation. Because
estriol competes with estrone (E1) for receptor uptake when given in large or
repeated doses, it can have an anti-estrogenic effect in selective tissues
like the breast and uterus. Estriol doses must be increased up to three times
the dose of estradiol to achieve similar effects (e.g. reducing preferred hot
flashes and vaginal dryness in menopausal women). In Europe and China, estriol
is the preferred form of estrogen for HRT. Many of the hormone replacement
therapy and birth control pharmaceuticals in the U.S. contain estradiol, the
strongest of the three forms of estrogen. Some of the estrogen's produced in
the United States exactly duplicate one of the three forms of estrogen
produced in the body, estradiol, so technically they are "natural". Many
physicians are now prescribing "Tri-est", a name given to a combination of the
three major estrogen's that the body naturally synthesizes, in a ration that
Jonathon Wright, MD claims most closely duplicates the ration of estrogen's
produced in the body: 80% estriol, 10%estrone, and 10% estradiol. These
natural estrogen's can be formulated by compounding pharmacies with a
physician's prescription. Other estrogen's available differ chiefly in the
source of the estrogen, e.g., whether they were derived from animal or
plant products, or synthesized chemically. One commonly prescribed estrogen
contains equillins, equillenins, and alpha estradiol (derived from the urine
of pregnant mares), all of which are estrogen's that occur naturally in
horses, but are foreign to the human body.
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Can natural progesterone be used without estrogen for the prevention
of osteoporosis?
Absolutely, some feel that supplemental estrogen is not generally necessary
for menopausal and post menopausal women who still have their ovaries. If
vasomotor flushes--hot flashes-- are occurring, the natural progesterone is
usually adequate in relieving them. It is generally recommended to use natural
progesterone daily and then every fifteen minutes during a hot flash. If after
1 month hot flashes are still occurring, some natural estrogen is suggested,
always accompanied by natural progesterone. Estrogen use should continue until
the hot flashes have ceased completely, then natural progesterone by itself
can continue indefinitely.
Note: Many women try to increase their consumption of plant
food sources of estrogen's (phytoestrogens or isoflavones), such as black
cohosh and soy food products, before they resort to prescription estrogen
therapy
What role does estrogen and progesterone play in bone health?
bones are living tissue and can mend when broken and continue to renew
themselves throughout life. Our bones are constantly "remodeling", replacing
old bone tissue with new bone. Estrogen helps stop the action of osteoclasts,
the cells that cause the break down or resorption of bone tissue, while
progesterone stimulates the action of osteoblasts, the cells that stimulate
the formation of new bone tissue. It is important to understand that
osteoclast cells constantly travel through bone tissue to seek out older bone
that is in need of renewal. The osteoclasts then reabsorb, or dissolve away
this old bone and leave tiny unfilled spaces. The Osteoblasts then move into
these spaces and produce new bone. this process, called "remodeling", is the
mechanism that keeps bones strong and healthy. The role that estrogen plays,
in retarding the action of bone reabsorbing osteoclasts, can slow the
condition of osteoporosis, but not reverse it, especially when
progesterone is absent. Evidence has been presented that osteoblasts have
receptors for progesterone, but not for estrogen. Since some estrogen
production continues in post-menopausal women, supplementation with
progesterone alone, in many cases, is sufficient to prevent and/or reverse
osteoporosis, along with a program of diet, mineral/vitamin supplementation
and moderate exercise.
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What are phytoestrogens?
Phytoestrogens are plant based estrogen-like substances. There are hundreds of
plants that contain phytoestrogens. Some are edible and some are medicinal,
non-edible plants. These phytoestrogens are not actually estrogen; they are
plant constituents that mimic estrogen closely enough to bind with estrogen
receptor sites and exert a weak but beneficial effect in the body, while
exerting an anti-estrogenic or estrogen blocking effect where needed. Some
findings have shown that the action of phytoestrogen's ability to bind
receptor sites may protect against Exposure to xenoestrogens, which are toxic
estrogenic substances of petrochemical origin in the environment. Sources of
phytoestrogens include: black cohosh, Don Quai, alfalfa and licorice. The best
food source of phytoestrogens are the isoflavones found in soy foods and soy
products. Soy isoflavones provide very versatile health giving
benefits for both men and women, as well as children. Fermented soy products,
such as miso and tempeh, might be preferable for individuals who have
digestive problems with most soy foods. Sprouted soybeans are extremely
nutritious, easy to digest, and an excellent source of isoflavones. They are
available in a dry form in powder or caplets (Regenezyme™ Soybean Sprout
Concentrate).
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Testing evaluations for bone mass and osteoporosis?
Risk evaluation for osteoporosis results from identifying an individual's Bone
Mineral Density (BMD). Tests that measure a current level of bone mass, or
baseline, include both dual photon absorptiometry (DPA) and dual X-ray
absorptiometry (DEXA). For referral to a DEXA center near you, call Act
Against Osteoporosis at 1-800-464-6700. These measurements can be repeated
every 1 to 3 years to monitor changes in BMD. In addition to changes in bone
density, bone turnover can be measured by urinary excretion in pyridinium, a
specific marker of bone breakdown that is excreted in the urine. Most labs can
run this test, and it can be ordered by your physician. One company that
offers this type of testing is Great Smokies Diagnostic Laboratories. Your
physician can call them at 1-800-522-4762 to get more information about the
test.
How can hormone levels be checked?
In the past, blood serum levels were used. However, the newer saliva hormone
assays are probably better. When the ovaries make estrogen and progesterone
for circulation in the watery blood serum, they bind them to protein (sex
hormone binding) globulin in the case of estrogen or cortisol-binding globulin
in the case of progesterone, to make them more water-soluble. Protein-bound
hormones are not biologically active, but they represent 90 percent of the
hormones found in the serum. Thus, the serum results do not accurately reflect
the biologically available hormones. Saliva hormone assays are less expensive,
very accurate, easier to obtain, and more relevant than serum assays. Great
Smokies Diagnostic Laboratories also offers this testing. (1-800-522-4762).
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How much natural progesterone does one need to use?
Each woman's need for natural progesterone is different, as each one has
specific symptoms that are affected by many different factors, including poor
nutrition, stress, and physical illness.
-
For menstruating women in their reproductive years,
natural progesterone is usually needed for 14 days off (7 days being during
the menstrual period and 7 days before ovulation) and 14 days on (14 days
being after ovulation and prior to commencement of next menstrual period).
-
Amounts used might increase in the 7-10 days before the period if PMS
symptoms occur. After several months’ usage, this will probably taper off and
natural progesterone will be necessary only 5-7 days before each period.
-
Menopausal women can use natural progesterone every day---increasing
amount if hot flashes occur. Again, usage will probably taper off as hot
flashes decrease. After a woman has been free of hot flashes and menopausal
symptoms for 1 month, she might be wise to continue using natural progesterone
indefinitely (but skipping use for 5-7 days each month) for prevention of
osteoporosis.
-
Women who have osteoporosis can also use natural progesterone every
day---especially if bones have already thinned and are starting to break.
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Is there a relationship between weight gain and menopause?
Women have been found to gain an average of 10-15 pounds at menopause. These
added fat cells are a site of estrogen production once ovaries "retire" at
menopause. Estrogen can affect weight in several ways. Estrogen not only
impacts water metabolism and can cause bloating, but it can also affect the
body's ability to utilize thyroid hormone. Low thyroid function can also slow
down metabolism and increase weight gain. There is also some research linking
estrogen to an increase in insulin production which can promote fat storage.
Since the fat cells are where some adrenal hormones get converted to estrogen,
this can cause a cycle of increasing weight gain. Progesterone may help
normalize weight by balancing relative estrogen excess. Progesterone also
functions to make thyroid hormone receptors more sensitive, aiding thyroid
activity in the body. In What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Menopause
, Dr. John Lee discusses the role of progesterone in helping balance blood
sugar. Of course, exercise and diet are important factors too. One of the best
ways to increase your metabolism (and therefore the rate at which you "burn"
your food) is to exercise. Regular exercise, at least 1/2 hour of aerobic
activity every day, can increase your metabolic rate, helping you to lose
weight in addition to helping maintain your bone mineral density.
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How does progesterone affect the risk for cardiovascular disease?
In addition to sensible nutrition and exercise, natural progesterone
may have a protective effect on the heart. Some very recent research showed
that natural progesterone helped reduce spasms of the coronary arteries, which
is relevant to reducing the risk of heart attacks. Blood vessel occlusion by
cholesterol plaques combined with vasoconstriction, can severely restrict
blood flow to the heart, resulting in a "heart attack."
In a study by Miyagawa, et al, progesterone plus estradiol was protective
against vasospasm, whereas estradiol plus medroxyprogesterone allowed
vasospasm, concluding that medroxyprogesterone increases risk of coronary
vasospasm, while natural progesterone does not. (Miyagawa K, Rosch J, Stanczyk
F, and Hermsmeyer K: Medroxyprogesterone interferes with ovarian steroid
protection against coronary vasospasm. Nature Medicine, Vol. 3, No.
3, 324-327.)
Natural progesterone is also significantly beneficial in raising good
cholesterol (HDL). In a study called the PEPI trial, natural progesterone was
more effective than synthetic versions, called "progestin’s" (e.g.,
medroxyprogesterone acetate) in raising HDL's or good cholesterol, we have,
the lower the risk of coronary artery disease. (The Writing Group for the PEPI
Trial: Effects of Estrogen or Estrogen/Progestin Regimes on Heart Disease Risk
Factors in Postmenopausal Women. JAMA, 1995; Vol. 273, No. 3: 199-208.)
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Can men use the natural progesterone?
If a young man under 45 used very much, it may cause his testicles to shrink
and his libido to decrease. However, older men 55 and up can use natural
progesterone daily and it will cause the libido to increase. Older men with
rheumatoid arthritis have gotten relief from the pain and swelling after
rubbing natural progesterone in a cream base on their joints. However, a very
small number, older men have actually been diagnosed with osteoporosis. In
these cases, use of natural progesterone and a specific nutritional regimen is
recommended as well.
Who should use estrogen supplements?
Estrogen works especially well for hot flashes and vaginal dryness. These
symptoms can be taken as a sign of estrogen deficiency. However, because
progesterone is a biochemical precursor to estrogen, it alone is often
sufficient to restore estrogen levels to normal and eliminate these symptoms.
If a three-month trial of progesterone, plus proper diet, supplements of
magnesium and B6, as well as herbs and foods that contain phytoestrogens
(plant hormones) do not relieve hot flashes or vaginal dryness, then low dose
natural estrogen may be helpful. (Estrogen is not recommended in those women
with a history of breast or uterine cancer, obesity, diabetes, or a history of
clotting or vascular disorders.) If used for hot flashes, find the lowest dose
of estrogen that works. If vaginal dryness is the problem, vaginal gels,
suppositories or creams containing estriol can be prescribed. Often, a small
dose applied in the vagina only twice a week, three weeks a month, will be
effective.
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If post-menopausal, will breakthrough bleeding occur with the use of
natural progesterone?
Occasionally upon beginning use of natural progesterone supplement, a
post-menopausal woman could experience some breakthrough bleeding, or a
"period." This is a perfectly normal response and is nothing to cause alarm.
The progesterone is simply causing the body to rid itself of excess stored
estrogen which can sometimes stimulate a uterine shedding--thus breakthrough
bleeding. If this continues for longer than several months, one should consult
with a healthcare provider.
Length of time with natural progesterone use before benefits are
noticed?
-
In the case of PMS, some women will notice immediate
benefits--within minutes. Some women might not notice a relief from symptoms
for 2-3 months.
-
Women who experience dysmenorrhea (cramping upon
menstruation) or migraine headaches, should continue to use the natural
progesterone during their period in order to get relief; whereas use of
natural progesterone should normally be stopped with the onset of the period.
-
Menopausal women who are
experiencing hot flashes are advised to use natural progesterone every 15
minutes until the hot flash has ceased. On an average, menopausal symptoms
will be relieved, or at least significantly decreased in 2-3 months. There are
many exceptions here though; one being a woman who has had a complete
hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and ovaries), and may need to use some
natural estrogen in addition to the natural progesterone to relieve her
symptoms.
Every woman's body is different, and there is no exact way to predict when
benefits will be noticed. In a study done by Dr. John Lee on women with
osteoporosis, bone scans indicated that 5% new bone density occurred in a
period of six months after each woman used natural progesterone daily and
followed a specific nutritional regimen.
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What is Tamoxifen?
The following is excerpted from The Estrogen Alternative, by Raquel
Martin with Judi Gerstung, DC.,"Tamoxifin is a synthetic hormone, a
"nonsteroidal antiestrogen," and is related to the carcinogenic hormone DES.
It has been used since 1977 to treat advanced breast cancer, but is now
believed to have many unusual side effects, some of which are similar to those
of estrogen, which can promote more tumors. Nevertheless, doctors are
considering tamoxifen for use in hormone replacement therapy. In one study
almost half of the tamoxifen recipients complained of 'persistent vasomotor,
gynecologic, or other major side effects'".
The women enrolled as volunteers in the clinical trials of tamoxifen as breast
cancer deterrent were apparently informed of a statistically known increased
risk of endometrial cancer. In February 1996, a review by the International
Agency for Research on Cancer---based in Lyon, France and composed of
scientists from various countries-concluded definitely, according to published
reports, "that there is sufficient evidence to regard tamoxifen as a human
carcinogen that increases a woman's risk of developing.... cancer of the
endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus."
Tamoxifen has also been linked to liver cancer, eye disease, and depression.
"Despite that," says Dr. Marcus Laux, "there's talk of selling this to
millions of women at high risk as a 'preventive'!" No wonder Dr. John Lee says
that other countries view our giving tamoxifen to postmenopausal women as
"another American joke."
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How to make an informed decision about prescription hormone use?
(From The Estrogen Alternative)
With prescription in hand, ask your pharmacist for a copy of the package
insert which is prepared for the doctor and the patient. the warnings and
contradictions concerning the drug will be clearly stated. Also, the warnings
on the inserts are so small that it is easy for your 'vision' to fade after
the first few sentences. However, it is essential to read on. You can
also refer to the Physicians' Desk Reference (PDR) and other books available
at your library.
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Suggested Reading List:
1) The Estrogen Alternative: Natural
Hormone Therapy With Botanical Progesterone, by Raquel Martin with Judi
Gerstung, DC: Healing Art Press, Rochester, VT 1997.
2) Preventing and Reversing Osteoporosis
, by Alan R. Gaby, MD, Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing, 1994.
3) Once a Month, by Katharine
Dalton, F.R.C.G.P., Pomona, CA: Hunter House, 1979
4) Natural Progesterone: the Multiple
Roles of a Remarkable Hormone, by John R. Lee, MD, Sebastopol, CA: BLL
Publishing, 1993.
5) Nutrition for Women (Fifth
Edition), by Raymond F. Peat, Ph.D., Eugene, OR: Kenegen, 1993.
6) Hormone Replacement Therapy: Yes or No?
, by Betty Kamen, Ph.D.., Del Marin Keys, CA: Nutrition Encounter, Inc., 1991.
7) The Silent Passage: Menopause, by
Gail Sheehy, New York: Pocket Books, 1993.
8) What Your Doctor May Not Tell You
About Menopause, by John R. Lee, MD, with Virginia Hopkins, New York:
Warner Books, 1996.