Progesterone is a naturally occurring hormone that regulates ovulation and menstruation in women. According to Drugs.com, progesterone vaginal is used in fertility treatment to increase levels of the hormone in the body. It can also be used to regulate the menstrual cycle in women who have too little progesterone to cycle on their own. As with any medication, progesterone vaginal suppositories have the risk of side effects.
Less Serious Side Effects
Some of the most common side effects associated with the use of progesterone suppositories are considered harmless unless they become persistent or overly bothersome, according to Drugs.com. They list several possible side effects including mild nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness and fatigue. Other more bothersome side effects may include pain in the vaginal or rectal area or pain during sex. Some women may experience a reduction in libido. Drugs.com also suggests some women will experience pain, swelling or tenderness in the breasts. Other discomforts can include joint or muscle pain and an increase in urination at night. The suppository itself can cause mild vaginal itching, burning or discharge, according to Drugs.com.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects associated with progesterone vaginal suppositories should be reported to a doctor and the medication should be discontinued, according to Drugs.com. Possible serious side effects include a sudden headache accompanied by numbness or weakness that occurs on one or both sides of the body. Drugs.com warns that these effects paired with shortness of breath, vision problems, speech problems or loss of balance may indicate a stroke or other serious condition. Women should report chest pain, chest heaviness, pain or swelling in the legs, hands, feet or ankles to a doctor. Other serious effects listed by Drugs.com include fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, breast lumps, depression, insomnia and mood changes. Some women may experience liver problems with the use of the medication. Drugs.com explains that the symptoms of this include jaundice, clay-colored stools, darkened urine, appetite reduction, low fever or abdominal pain paired with nausea.
Other Concerns
Women who experience signs of an allergic reaction should seek medical attention immediately. Drugs.com warns that severe allergy can result in hives, trouble breathing and swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. Breathing may become difficult or impossible with a severe allergic reaction. Women who have had health concerns including liver disease, breast cancer or blood clots should not use vaginal progesterone suppositories as they can exacerbate the risk of these such health issues, according to RxList.com.
