Can progesterone cream help hot flashes?

Scientific research has shown that progesterone cream can be beneficial in treating the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, depression, night sweats, lack of sleep, and fatigue. In addition, progesterone cream could also lead to improved heart health in some patients.

Is estrogen or progesterone better for hot flashes?

Hot flashes generally require a higher dose of estrogen therapy that will have an effect on the entire body. Women who still have a uterus need to take a progestogen (progesterone or a similar product) along with the estrogen to prevent cancer of the uterus.

Can progesterone alone stop hot flashes?

June 22, 2010 — Progesterone alone, when given in a form that’s identical to the natural hormone, helps relieve the hot flashes and night sweats experienced by women during menopause, according to a new study.

Can progesterone make hot flashes worse?

Hot flashes are typically due to a change in your hormones. When progesterone is low it can cause your estrogen to raise and this imbalance can create hot flashes, particularly at night.

Can you lose weight while taking progesterone?

When used orally, progesterone functions as a sleep aid. In all these effects note that progesterone does not directly cause weight loss. Instead it reduces the effect of other hormones in the body which are causing the weight gain. Think of it as allowing rather than causing the body to lose weight.

Can antidepressant really help with hot flashes?

Antidepressant May Help Ease Hot Flashes. In the study, Freeman found the antidepressant reduced both the number and severity of hot flashes compared to placebo. Previous studies of other antidepressants have yielded mixed results, according to Freeman.

When to take progesterone cream?

Dosage and Preparation. If using progesterone cream to prevent hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms, some doctors will advise you to apply the cream once daily for six days and to skip every seventh day. You can apply the cream to your neck area, inner thigh, forearm, lower abdomen, or vaginal/labial area.

Should I stop using progesterone cream?

Discontinue use of progesterone cream by weaning off of it over time. When you decide it is time to stop supplementing with natural progesterone cream, simply reduce the amount you use each time you apply it.

What is the best over the counter natural progesterone?

Natural progesterone creams are available over-the-counter. Another form of natural progesterone (oral micronized progesterone ) is available in capsules but only with a prescription (under the brand name Prometrium) or from a “compounding pharmacy” that customizes formulas according to your doctor’s instructions.