What is Bioidentical Progesterone?

Bioidentical progesterone is a type of hormone therapy that uses natural sources rather than chemical synthesis. It is often used to treat the symptoms of menopause and negative consequences of radical hysterectomy or to prevent miscarriage during the first trimester of pregnancy. Progesterone, sometimes referred to as “the happy hormone,” has many functions in the human body. As the body changes, it's production of this hormone drops, which leads some people to try hormone replacement therapy. This medication may be sold over-the-counter as a topical solution or be prescribed as an oral tablet by a doctor.

When a women reaches menopause, the balance between estrogen and progesterone sways. Women may suffer numerous physical symptoms as a result of this imbalance. Bioidentical progesterone helps to combat a low sex drive, eliminate hot flashes, and promote health in the heart and bones. Menopausal women who are experiencing mood swings, anxiety, depression and insomnia may also benefit from this treatment. This hormone is used for infertility, uterine fibroids or premenstrual dysphoric disorder in premenopausal women.

Instead of being created from chemicals in a lab, bioidentical progesterone is created by extracting the hormone from natural sources such as yams or soy. The structure of bioidentical hormone molecules is an exact match for their composition in humans. Treatment may be considered “natural hormone therapy,” because the body is unable to distinguish between bioidentical progesterone and progesterone that it has produced.

There are many bioidentical progesterone products available over-the-counter without a prescription. This hormone may be delivered topically through creams, patches, or vaginal rings. Most women are able to absorb topical bioidentical hormones better than artificially-synthesized versions. Bioidentical progesterone is also available in prescription tablets for women who are unable to absorb the medication topically. Women who use these treatments often start seeing a reduction in symptoms within the first days of treatment.

Although it is typically considered a female hormone, progesterone is found in both men and women. Some types of cancer are associated with abnormal levels of this hormone in either gender. Men's health experts sometimes suggest that men over 40 should ask their doctors about low-dose progesterone replacement. Treatment with bioidentical progesterone cream can promote bone health and reduce the size of the prostate.

Anyone considering hormone replacement therapy should consult with her doctor. A saliva test can show the level of hormones circulating in the body and serve as a baseline for tracking absorption. Saliva tests for progesterone are limited as a diagnostic tool, because normal hormone levels vary greatly among people.