Progesterone suppositories are available with a prescription medication and are inserted vaginally. Progesterone is a female hormone needed for the lining of the uterus so it may receive a fertilized egg. Progesterone suppositories are used in women who are on infertility treatment to increase progesterone levels in the body. This enables the women to become pregnant and stay pregnant. They may also be used during the pregnancy to prevent miscarriage. Like all drugs, these suppositories may cause several side effects.
Nausea and Vomiting
Common gastrointestinal side effects include nausea and vomiting, as well stomach pain and bloating. According to RxList.com, during the clinical trials of the medication, about 8 percent of patients experienced nausea, while 3 percent experienced vomiting. Abdominal pain is also common and was seen in about 12 percent of individuals. Women must keep in mind that there are also common symptoms of pregnancy; progesterone suppositories may worsen these side effects in some pregnant women.
Breast Tenderness and Swelling
Progesterone suppositories may lead to breast pain and swelling, states PubMed Health. This is due to the fluctuations of hormones in the body. Once the body grows accustomed to the drug, patients should see a decrease in this side effect.
Vaginal Effects
Progesterone suppositories are inserted directly into the vagina and can, therefore, lead to irritation, discomfort and itching. Women may also notice increased discharge. If these adverse reactions do not go away or become severe, seek medical attention right away. Some women may also experience pain during sexual intercourse. Drugs.com reports that spasms of the uterus and vaginal bleeding occur in about 3 percent of women during clinical trials. The patient should speak with a physician if any of these side effects occur.
Headache and Fatigue
Headache and fatigue are common side effects seen with the initial use of the medication. About 3 to 4 percent of patients may experience these side effects, states the "Drug Information Handbook." The patient should be careful when driving or performing activities that require attention to detail if she experiences fatigue. Headaches may be treated with acetaminophen or aspirin.
Mood Swings and Irritability
Patients on progesterone suppositories may also experience changes in mood, such as mood swings and irritability. Although these side effects were not seen during the clinical trials, Drugs.com explains that these side effects are expected in medications which contain progesterone.
References
- RxList.com: Endometrin
- PubMed Health: Progesterone
- Drugs.com: Endometrin Side Effects
- "Drug Information Handbook": Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
