Progesterone vaginal suppositories are prescribed to women trying to get pregnant. Suppositories are used when women have low progesterone levels after ovulation, or because they've undergone artificial reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization. Progesterone helps the embryo implant and grow in the uterine lining. Medication given to increase the number of eggs matured in an IVF cycle also raise estrogen levels. Since estrogen and progesterone must be maintained in balance, extra progesterone is given after an IVF cycle, the Georgia Reproductive Specialists website explains. Like any medication, progesterone vaginal suppositories can have side effects.
Fluid Retention
Progesterone increases fluid retention even when not given in supplements. Fluid retention causes breast enlargement, breast pain or tenderness, which affects 27 percent of women, bloating, which affects 8 percent, headache, which affects 31 percent, according to Drugs.com. Swelling of extremities can also occur.
Vaginal Discomfort
Vaginal suppositories can cause a number of vaginal effects, including vaginal discharge in 10 percent, vaginal dryness in 6 percent, vaginal infections including fungal infections and urinary tract infections, Drugs.com reports. Vaginal itching, irritation and burning can occur with Endometrin, a specific brand of vaginal suppositories, according to RxList and probably with others as well.
Stomach Pain
Progesterone suppositories can cause stomach pain and discomfort in 20 percent of women. Factors contributing to stomach pain could be diarrhea, which affects 8 percent of women, nausea, which also occurs in 8 percent of women and constipation, which occurs in 3 percent, Drugs.com states.
Drowsiness
Drowsiness often occurs in women taking progesterone supplements. Drowsiness can be accompanied by fatigue, dizziness, which affects 15 percent, according to Drugs.com, feeling lightheaded or fainting, confusion and speech disorders.
Depression
As many as 19 percent of women taking progesterone vaginal suppositories experience depression, Drugs.com warns. Worry and irritability each affect 8 percent of women. Nervousness, difficulty concentrating and forgetfulness may also occur.
Joint and Muscle Pain
Joint pain affects 20 percent of women taking progesterone vaginal suppositories, Drugs.com reports. Musculoskeletal pain affects 12 percent, with 8 percent reporting back pain. Leg cramps, increased muscle tone, or hypertonia and arthritis can also occur.
