Progesterone is a female hormone responsible for regulating ovulation and menstruation in women, available by prescription and over-the-counter. Progesterone cream may be recommended in peri- and menopausal women who are experiencing symptoms of fluctuations in their hormone levels, which include heavy periods, insomnia and hot flashes. Although some progesterone creams are available over-the-counter, you should first speak to your doctor before use to confirm indications.
Regulates Menstrual Cycle
Perimenopausal women that have started experiencing the symptoms of menopause may be prescribed progesterone cream by their doctor. Progesterone supplementation can bring on menstrual periods in women that have stopped getting a regular period due to a lack of the hormone, according to Drugs.com. Progesterone for this use is usually only given for short periods of time--approximately six to 12 days during the woman's menstrual cycle.
Improves Skin Health
According to a 2005 study done by the Division of Special and Environmental Dermatology at the Medical University of Vienna, progesterone cream can have positive effects on the skin of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. The study was done over a 16 week period on 40 subjects. At the end of the study, the application of two percent progesterone cream had an anti-aging effect on the participant's skin. The skin of the subjects showed an increase in elasticity and firmness after daily application of the cream.
Inhibits Endometrial Growth
Patients receiving estrogen as part of hormone replacement therapy may be recommended progesterone cream by their doctor. The progesterone can be used on these patients to prevent the endometrium, or lining of the uterus, from overgrowing states the Drugs.com website. When the body sheds the lining during the period, women with thick uterine lining may experience heavy and uncomfortable bleeding. Menstruation may last longer than seven days when you have this problem. Progesterone keeps the lining at a normal size.
