Category: Hormone health

While many people report gaining weight while taking progesterone, clinical research on a direct causal link is inconsistent [1.2.1]. Any weight change that does occur may be due to temporary water retention rather than an increase in fat mass [1.4.1]. This article explores the nuanced relationship between progesterone and weight.

Nausea is a common reported side effect of progesterone supplementation, affecting a significant number of users [1.2.2, 1.8.5]. So, does progesterone cause nausea? The answer is yes, due to its effects on the digestive system and its role in hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and menopause [1.3.2, 1.5.2].

In the United States, only about 10-15% of women seek medical help for menopausal symptoms, often fearing treatment side effects [1.8.2]. For those who do, a common question arises: does progesterone supplement cause mood swings? The answer is complex, as this hormone can both stabilize and disrupt mood.

Progesterone levels naturally fluctuate throughout a woman's life, especially during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy, but persistently high levels can cause symptoms like bloating, mood changes, and fatigue. To effectively and safely address this, it's crucial to understand how to flush out excess progesterone by supporting your body's metabolic processes rather than trying rapid "detoxes".

While many women express concern about weight changes during hormone therapy, research on the direct link between micronized progesterone and significant weight gain is mixed. Understanding the real causes—often temporary water retention or appetite shifts—is crucial for patients contemplating or using this medication.

Progesterone is a critical steroid hormone involved in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Understanding **what does taking progesterone do for the body** is key to leveraging its benefits for conditions like menstrual irregularities, infertility, and menopause symptoms.

Affecting around 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States, androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) is a widespread concern [1.5.6]. This has led many to question lifestyle factors, asking: **does caffeine increase DHT**, the primary hormone linked to this condition?

While typically known for its vasodilatory effects, some recent in-vitro research suggests that minoxidil may have nuanced effects on hormonal pathways. This article explores the scientific evidence behind the question: **does minoxidil raise estrogen**, examining its impact on hormone-producing enzymes and local hormone concentrations.

Vitamin D deficiency is common among menopausal women, a group also experiencing declining progesterone levels. This raises a critical question for many: **can you take vitamin D with progesterone?** The combination is generally considered safe and may offer cooperative benefits.

Over-the-counter progesterone creams are often unregulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and may have inconsistent dosages, absorption, and effectiveness. Before you decide, it's crucial to understand the major differences between these topical products and regulated prescription forms, and answer the question: can I buy progesterone over the counter?