Progesterone is naturally-occurring hormone in women that the female body uses to help regulate normal menstruation and ovulation. If you are a premenopausal woman and do not experience menstrual periods due to low levels of progesterone in your body, your doctor may recommend treatment with a synthetic form of progesterone. Progesterone may also be used to prevent a condition called endometrial hyperplasia, a condition in which the uterine lining grows excessively, in postmenopausal women receiving estrogen therapy. Talk with your medical provider about the negative side effects of progesterone before beginning treatment with this hormone.
Upset Stomach
Mild upset stomach side effects may occur as a negative side effect of progesterone treatment. You may experience nausea, vomiting or stomach bloating or cramping. These side effects may also occur in conjunction with bowel movement changes, such as constipation or diarrhea. You may limit or prevent the emergence of upset stomach side effects by taking progesterone with a small snack or meal. If stomach-related side effects persist, consult your doctor for further evaluation and care.
Breast Tenderness
In clinical trials for an oral form of this hormone therapy, approximately 16 percent of women reported experiencing breast pain or tenderness, according to RxList. Breast pain may also be associated with mild breast swelling, which may cause your breasts to appear larger than usual. You may notice that your breasts feel swollen and are sore or sensitive to the touch. If breast tenderness becomes bothersome or interferes with your ability to perform your normal physical activities, talk with your physician.
Tiredness or Fatigue
Treatment with progesterone may cause side effects of tiredness or fatigue. Approximately 27 percent of women receiving progesterone gel during clinical trials reported somnolence, or drowsiness, as a negative side effect of treatment, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration reports. Increased tiredness or fatigue may make it difficult for your to remain alert or focused during normal daily activities.
Flu-like Symptoms
You may experience flu-like symptoms while you are receiving treatment with progesterone. These flu-like side effects may include headache, sweating or hot flashes, joint pain, cough, dizziness or upset stomach, Drugs.com warns. If you develop a fever or chills, contact your medical provider for further evaluation.
Unusual Hair Growth or Acne
Unusual hair growth or acne may develop as negative side effects of this type of hormone therapy. You may notice increased hair growth across your face, chest or abdomen, which may be embarrassing. Red, irritated or pus-filled skin lesions may appear across your facial skin or body -- a side effect called acne. These side effects may be bothersome, especially for older women. If unusual hair growth or acne persists, consult your doctor for more information regarding how to control these side effects.
