The two primary female hormones include estrogen and progesterone. Progestin is the active substance in most prescription progesterone creams. While prescription progesterone creams contain specific dosages of this hormone, some over-the-counter progesterone creams contain no measurable amounts of progesterone. Progesterone cream is a common treatment for menopausal symptoms. Both prescription and non-prescription progesterone creams may cause unpleasant side effects, especially in high doses.
Prescription Progesterone
Prescription progestin is available in a variety of forms, including liquid capsules, gels, tablets and creams. As your body absorbs the hormones from the cream, you may experience a reduction in menopausal symptoms.
Wild Yam Cream
Over-the-counter progesterone creams often contain wild yam as a primary ingredient. Although these herbal products may contain marketing or labeling that suggests they contain progesterone, they actually contain diosgenin, a natural phytoestrogens that requires a laboratory procedure to convert it into an absorbable form of hormone. Although wild yams don't contain true progesterone, some preparations may contain added amounts of synthetic progesterone substances, such as MPA or medroxyprogesterone acetate. Although more research is necessary, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns that wild yam products may produce effects similar to those of estrogen. The creams usually contain about 12 percent of the wild yam extract. Wild yam cream may contain variable amounts of synthetic hormones.
Uses
Progesterone works together with estrogen and helps balance the risks associated with estrogen replacement therapy, although NYU Langone Medical Center advises that the cream form of progesterone may not be strong enough to reduce the risk of uterine cancer. While menopause symptoms are a common reason for prescribing progesterone cream, your doctor may also prescribe this hormone for a variety of other conditions, such as endometriosis and uterine cancer.
Precautions
Only use prescription and non-prescription progesterone creams under the supervision of a trusted health care professional. Over-the-counter progesterone creams do not meet the same strict requirements as prescription creams. Although non-prescription progesterone creams may not reduce menopausal symptoms, these products may interact with certain medications, such as birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy. Prescription progesterone may cause changes in vaginal bleeding and symptoms of blood sugar irregularities, such as unusual thirst and dry mouth. Excessive amounts of progesterone can increase your risk of blood clots and stroke.
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