Soy & Progesterone

Soy lecithin is added to many processed foods as an emulsifier and soybean oil is present in a wide variety of packaged foods. Many women take soy as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy for menopause despite the uncertainty of the potential benefits and risks involved. This has created quite a controversy in the world of food and medicine and is undergoing heavy investigation as results have been conflicting and somewhat confusing.

Progesterone Importance

Progesterone is a multi-functioning steroid hormone produced in the ovaries and in the placenta of pregnant women that prepares the uterus for fertilized eggs. It maintains optimal conditions for pregnancy and stimulates cell proliferation, supporting embryonic development. Although it is vital to mammary gland formation, it also plays a large role in the growth of breast tumors. Progesterone has suppressive actions on white blood cell division and activity and on the immune system to prevent rejection of the fetus and placenta. Progesterone also suppresses the activity of uterine smooth muscle, thereby promoting the maintenance of pregnancy.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

Progesterone and estrogen are used as a part of hormone replacement therapy in menopausal and postmenopausal women who have not had a hysterectomy. Progesterone helps prevent the abnormal thickening of the uterine wall that can occur from estrogen replacement, decreasing the risk of uterine cancer. Hormone replacement therapy can have unpleasant side effects such as migraines, breast lumps, mood swings, seizures, depression and stomach pain. Many women see soy as a welcome alternative.

Mixed Results

A 2009 study published in the Journal of Gynecological Endocrinology stated that phytoestrogens found in soy impede the action of progesterone, while a large 2001 study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Cancer showed associations between sex hormones and soy milk consumption to be insignificant. A 2010 animal study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Cancer indicated that dietary soy protein contributes to a tolerant atmosphere for invasive tumors in those who have an overexpression of progesterone receptor-A. This implies that soy isoflavones may impact breast cancer outcome for those at risk.

Alternative Explanation

An important August 2011 study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that soy no more alleviates the symptoms of menopause than did a placebo. The women in the study received a daily dosage of 200mg of soy isoflavone tablets or a placebo over the course of two years. The study was concerned with changes in bone collagen and mineral density, symptoms of menopause, vaginal cell physiognomies and thyroid function. The only significant difference found was that a larger amount of participants in the soy group experienced hot flashes and constipation verses the placebo group.

Non-Hormonal, Drug-Free Alternatives

There are many alternatives to chemical therapies for menopause, and these contribute to aging healthfully. The goal of acupressure and acupuncture therapy is to stabilize the body's energy and reduce symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a way of finding out how women think and feel about menopause, the people in their lives, themselves and their environment by speaking with a therapist. Osteopathy, reflexology and Tai Chi are all promising, noninvasive treatments that contribute to relaxation and well-being during this difficult time. Ayurveda is also considered a menopause therapy using food, massage, body soaks and laxatives. Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils as specific oils have certain benefits. This can be achieved through breathing or massage therapy. Any treatment should only be commenced under the direction of a licensed health practitioner.