Although most health care professionals believe that your body cannot tell the difference between natural and synthetic substances, some individuals prefer naturally derived medicine. Crinone is a natural form of the female hormone progesterone, used for fertility, to support a healthy menstrual cycle and to ease menopausal symptoms. Crinone is a brand-name product available through prescription only and there are side effects and precautions that you should know.
Progesterone
Progesterone is a parent hormone to sex hormones known as estrogen and testosterone. In women, progesterone and estrogen are important for fertility and the overall menstrual cycle. Cells surrounding the egg secrete progesterone, which influences egg fertilization. During and after menopause, progesterone levels decline. This can cause uncomfortable symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, and mood swings.
HRT
Hormone replacement therapy has its risks. Some women seek natural progesterone as an alternative because synthetic progesterone, known as progestin, is associated with an increased risk of blood clots, breast cancer, stroke and heart disease. Progestin is often used in combination with synthetic estrogen. You should know that there were no studies available in 2011 showing that natural progesterone carries less risk. At the time of publication, there was no reason to believe that natural progesterone is safer than synthetic progesterone.
Crinone
Crinone is used to treat a variety of issues associated with lack of progesterone. It is used to stimulate periods in women who have not yet reached menopause but are not having a monthly period due to progesterone deficiency. It is also used as a fertility treatment for women who are unable to get pregnant because they lack progesterone. When used for this purposes, Crinone may be given up to 12 weeks into pregnancy, according to Drugs.com
Safety
While taking Crinone, you may feel drowsy or light headed. Crinone may also cause blurred vision. Drinking alcohol can increase these side effects. Other side effects include breast enlargement, constipation, bloating, increased appetite, nausea and joint pain. You should consult your doctor if these side effects become bothersome. Crinone may affect your blood sugar. You should discuss this with your doctor if you have diabetes.
