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Foods containing progesterone

I have been on the internet for 4 hours looking for actual foods containing progesterone... not creams... or pills... the actual food. All I found was yams and soybeans. Are there not any other foods?

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May 05, 2008
 Foods containing progesterone
by: Wray

There are no foods that contain progesterone.

It's an animal hormone and never found in plants. Not even soy beans or yams! Plants such as the soy bean, Dioscorea species of yams, fenugreek and many more, contain phytosterols, two such are stigmasterol and diosgenin.

As these sterols have a similar molecular structure to progesterone, they are used as starting points for the bio-synthesis of progesterone. This is then further broken down to oestrogen, testosterone, cortisol etc for use in HRT, testosterone replacement, cortisone etc.

Stigmasterol was first isolated from calabar beans. The commercial source of the sterol is the unsaponified fraction of soya-bean oil, which contains 12-25% stigmasterols. In 1976, stigmasterol was the starting material for 25% of the world production of steroids, and it has now overtaken diosgenin as the principal starting material for the industrial semi-synthesis of steroids. Do hope this helps, Take care Wray
Jul 24, 2008
 Steriods
by: Anonymous

Thank you for the information about natural steriods. I used it in the ABC comments section so maybe they'll stop blaming people for eating and having allergies.
Nov 10, 2008
 Progesterone
by: Anonymous

I thought eggs, beans, chicken, wheat and rice had progesterone?
Nov 11, 2008
 No progesterone in food
by: Wray

Unfortunately no 'food' contains progesterone, as you can see from my reply below, it's an animal hormone. The only way you could get any from eating 'food' is by eating the placenta that comes away after birth! Some animals do this, instinctively knowing they need a boost of progesterone after giving birth.

There are accounts of some tribes women who do the same for the same reason. In fact pigs placentas were used initially to extract the progesterone for commercial production, but it was hugely expensive and now the preferred commercial source are plant sterols. Hope this helps Take care Wray
Sep 11, 2009
 No progesterone in foods
by: Diana

I too have been looking for ways that my progesterone levels could have been greatly increased through food. On other sites I have seen suggested that avocados, nuts and seeds, olives and oils are progesterone-boosting foods. I also read on Wikipedia that a diet rich in dairy can elevate progesterone levels, as the cows are milked during pregnancy when their own levels are elevated.

Recent saliva tests indicate my progesterone levels to be very high - over 1200. And, my diet is rich with all of the foods listed above. I'm post menopausal and in my early 50's. I did use a progesterone oil on my gums 4-5 years ago to reduce perimenopausal symptoms, but have not touched any progesterone creams/oils in years. I know an excess can be stored in fat cells for some time, but I believe something else has contributed to this problem. My health-care practitioner believes I am getting dosed from something in the environment - like facial creams. Amy thoughts about this or how to reduce the progesterone in my body?

Thank you!
Sep 13, 2009
 High progesterone levels
by: Diana

Thank you Wray,

So if foods aren't stimulating my body to produce high levels of progesterone (over 1200 in saliva test), where might it be coimng from? I haven't used proseterone oil in 4-5 years. Any thought about cosmetics/facial creams? Are there other reasons the body would produce that much?
Sep 15, 2009
 High progesterone levels
by: Wray

Hi Diana. I must confess to being puzzled! In your last contribution you commented on milk containing high levels, as the cows are milked while pregnant. This is true, but 80-90% of oral progesterone is destroyed by the gut and liver, so I don't think it would have much influence.

Cosmetics contain oestrogen mimics, not progesterone, particularly if they have the parabens and liquid paraffin as ingredients. Another two to watch for are BHA and BHT, oestrogenic antioxidants. Unless progesterone is deliberately added to a cosmetic, there won't be any in. If I come across any info I'll certainly post it! Take care, Wray
Sep 18, 2009
 Agnus castus
by: Dawn

I read that these drops "Agnus castus" 10 in a glass of water daily along with the vitamin milk thistle 300 to 400 ml helps produce progesterone and this avoids the growth of fibroids. Hope this will help.
Jan 20, 2010
 Have a look at this
by: bazza

Here?s a useful site for you to look at:
http://www.ehow.com/facts_5008973_foods-that-naturally-increase-progesterone.html

Plus have you thought of other things like red clover properties http://www.vortexhealth.net/redclover.html

Oh and using the word ?properties? with plants, herbs or foods you get a better understanding of what your looking at happy hunting.
Jan 25, 2010
 Agnus castus
by: Wray

Hi Dawn. Agnus castus contains a phytoestrogen. The body cannot make progesterone from it. The same applies to milk thistle. The body can only make progesterone from cholesterol, the starting point in any human. Take care, Wray
Feb 15, 2010
 Foods containing progesterone
by: Anonymous

I was trying to research for foods that contain progesterone as well, not creams or pills. I found that Avocados, raw nuts and seeds, olives, and salmon and tuna all contain natural progesterone. Hope that helps.
Mar 02, 2010
 Hope this will help
by: safiya

Egg yolks and dairy products both contain respectable amounts of true progesterone, but it is not known how directly they interact with the human body's own progesterone stores.
Mar 02, 2010
 Foods containing progesterone
by: Wray

I don't know where you obtained your information, but progesterone has never been found in plants until very recently. A study conducted and then published in the Journal of Natural Products in Jan 2010 found it's existence in the English walnut tree, Juglans regia. Please see this.

It is found in all animals, all mammals, birds, reptiles and fishes and in both sexes. But the amount is so low no benefit would be had, unless you ate a placenta. Another aspect to take into consideration is progesterone, if taken orally, is mostly destroyed as it passes through the gut and liver. Take care, Wray
Mar 29, 2010
 Progesterone therapy for to prevent Fibroid Growth
by: Need2No

Is there a link between low progesterone and fibroid growth? Please explain if you know this.
Apr 02, 2010
 Progesterone therapy for to prevent Fibroid Growth
by: Wray

Generally a low progesterone means high oestrogen. Oestrogen stimulates cellular growth as it's a mitogen. Hence it's high presence in fibroids, endometriosis, cancer, breast and ovarian cysts. For more information please see here. Take care, Wray
Apr 02, 2010
 Maybe not actual progesterone but...
by: Anonymous

I'm on progesterone support as prescribed by hospital. They also mention foods which increase doses of vitamins that are necessary to the body in order to produce progesterone (as listed by others above).
Apr 04, 2010
 Progestogen deficiency
by: Anonymous

My 15 year old daughters doctor has suggested that she has low progestogen levels a week before her period and that taking Cerazette may help alleviate her symtoms of headaches and dizziness which keeps her off school each month. Any advice will be helpful.
Apr 05, 2010
 Maybe not actual progesterone but...
by: Wray

If you've been given something prescribed by a hospital, in all probability it's not progesterone but a progestin. You might like to read what these can do to us.

As for vitamins needed to produce progesterone, the only specific one is niacin or nicotinamide, which forms the complex nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide or NAD for short. This is a coenzyme found in all living cells and is needed for the conversion of cholesterol into pregnenolone, and then into progesterone. NAD can also be made from the amino acids tryptophan and aspartic acid. Take care, Wray
Apr 12, 2010
 Comment re 15 yr old 'progestogen deficient'
by: Anonymous

I can see you posted this on 4th april and I really hope you get to see this comment or your daughter could end up facing the same problems I have been dealing with as a result of being on birth control pills for 10 years. I recently came off all pills as I discovered there is a BIG difference between PROGESTERONE and PROGESTINS/PROGESTOGENS. The last two are synthetic hormones found in bc pills. If your daughter is lacking in anything, it would be PROGESTERONE which a pill cannot give so please don't get these confused like I did. I only discovered this recently and thanks to Wray Whyte on this wonderful website. I have received many emails answering all of my questions on this subject and I cannot tell you how much this has helped me. So please consider an alternative. I hope this helps.
Apr 18, 2010
 Progesterone
by: Anonymous

Agnus castus affects the pituitary and helps produce progesterone. I've read there are sub-lingual progesterone tablets that dissolve and are absorbed in the mouth. Any experience anybody?
Apr 20, 2010
 Lack of Progesterone
by: Joan

I was told that my Progesterone levels are almost not existent. I am 57 years old and my hair is thinning and I don't sleep well at all. I was given a "natural" progesterone to take orally at night. After 10 days, I was so ansy and feeling itchy all over, that I stopped. Is there any other way to boost progesterone levels other than creams and pills?
Apr 21, 2010
 Progestogen deficiency
by: Wray

I see your query has already been answered and I couldn't have put it better myself! I don't know who it is, but I am helping several girls who have recently come off the pill and are struggling with its after affects. Please have a look here for more information.

A synthetic progestin will not raise progesterone levels, not only that but it will suppress ovarian function. This means not only oestrogen production stopping, but it stops ovulation, this is the intention behind the pill, to prevent pregnancy. But by stopping ovulation no progesterone will be made. So the reverse of the intended effect occurs. Please consider progesterone, this is excellent for migraines/headaches, please see these pages...
Page 1
Page 2
It should help the dizziness too, a high level of oestrogen the few days prior to our periods causes water to be retained, this affects the fluid in the ear and therefore balance. Progesterone is an excellent diuretic, so good in fact that it's given to brain trauma victims to prevent the oedema that forms after the injury. For more information on how to use progesterone please see here. Take care, Wray
Apr 21, 2010
 Progesterone
by: Wray

I can't see how it would help produce progesterone, as agnus castus has an oestrogenic action in the body. Although in a round about way I suppose it could, as it can stimulate the ovaries, there is even one case of mild ovarian hyperstimulation in a woman taking it. Once the egg has matured it ovulates and then the remaining follicle produces progesterone. It also suppresses prolactin levels in the pituitary as it has dopaminergic properties, ie it modulates the dopamine receptor sites. So it can normalise a shortened luteal phase due to excess prolactin, which in turn extends the production time of progesterone. But because of it's oestrogenic action, oestrogen rises in the luteal phase during treatment. Progesterone also suppresses prolactin, does not of course have an oestrogenic effect, in fact suppresses it, and can also extend the luteal phase. To my mind the better of the two, as it also turns the endometrial lining into a secretive lining, ready for a fertilised egg. A. Castus cannot do this. Please see these abstracts...
Abstract 1
Abstract 2
Abstract 3
Abstract 4
Troches/lozenges are a relatively new method of administering bio-identical hormones. The reasoning behind them is the hormone bypasses the stomach and first pass metabolism of the liver as it?s absorbed by the buccal mucosa, so entering circulation. However, according to one report, more than 50%, occasionally up to 70%, of the total dose of hormone is swallowed. Once swallowed stomach acids and the liver will destroy up to 90% of the hormone. Although this does not affect oestrogen, both testosterone and progesterone are not suited to this route. Take care, Wray
Apr 21, 2010
 Lack of Progesterone
by: Wray

Hi Joan. There are various routes that can be used to deliver progesterone. Injections, suppositories/pessaries, troches or lozenges, buccal drops, oral caps, gels and creams. Injections are large and therefore painful, suppositories/pessaries are very effective, but limited in their application, as are troches/lozenges. This last is also affected by the destruction in the gut and liver, as about 50% is swallowed. Buccal drops share the same fate, progesterone is also very bitter, so not an option for most women. The oral is the least effective route, as much of it is destroyed by the gut and liver. Gels are effective, but generally only used in the vagina, which leaves the creams. These are to my mind the best option, the progesterone they contain is absorbed well, has been found to be as effective as injections and to enter circulation rapidly. It has an advantage over all the other systems as it can be used where needed. On painful areas, particularly good for migraines/headaches, in the vagina for dryness and inflammation, excellent for burns, on the face where it helps with wrinkles and more. It can be used anywhere on the body, as the skin comprises 95% kerotinocytes, these have many progesterone receptor sites. Even hair follicles absorb progesterone well.

The ansy feeling you had was probably caused by oestrogen dominance, for more information on this please see here. As you're 57 you might like to see this page too. Progesterone itself doesn't cause itchiness, so it could be the oestrogen dominance or some other substance in the oral progesterone you were given. If you do decide to use a cream, please use between 100-200mg/day. It does help with sleep, so do tryptophan and inositol, for more info please see here. Progesterone helps with hair loss, so does inositol. The amino acid N-acetyl cysteine also helps, it strengthens hair, nails and skin too, as they comprise about 14% cysteine. Take care, Wray
May 03, 2010
 Menopause/used natural creams/cramping
by: Anonymous

I've had a hysterectomy 17 years ago and tried the natural creams. But when I do they all make me start bloating making my lower stomach very hard and cramping badly. I still have ovaries but not funtioning. I don't have hot flashes am a vegan, eat tofu. I have a lot of dryness.
May 04, 2010
 Menopause/used natural creams/cramping
by: Wray

The 'adverse' reaction you had was caused by excess oestrogen. This can occur when first using any form of progesterone, most disconcerting too. For more info please see here. The dryness can be helped by using some of the progesterone cream in your vagina at night. Take care, Wray
Jun 01, 2010
 Ratio of lotion/cream & soy should I use?
by: ms. endometriosis

Dear Wray, I def need your advice. I have hot flashes, problems sleeping and irritability. I had 9 surgeries in 2 years due to endometriosis destroying my ureter tube along with blood transfusion at Cleveland clinic approx. 8 years ago. Unfortunately only my ovaries are removed and I still have my uterus. Presently I have small fibroids but dr. says surgery not necessary now. I have been on a combi-patch all these years, however, I am supposed to change this 2x per week but I only changed it 1x per week and now 1x every 2 weeks for fear of more surgery due to fibroids growing and concerned endometriosis could grow again although statistics are low for this. Severe pain was in left pelvic area and nerve damage from past surgeries going from groin to bottom of my left foot. Thank God for some type of steriod shot dr. gave me so I can actually go for walks now.

My question to you is what amount of lotion/cream and soy supplements should I use to get the proper equation of both for me? Also what kinds or brands? Desperate need of help! Thank YOU!
Jun 03, 2010
 Ratio of lotion/cream & soy should I use?
by: Wray

I'm really puzzled you are on the patch, as endo is an oestrogen sensitive problem. In fact it shows you have an excess of oestrogen. So do the fibroids, as these are also stimulated by oestrogen. Please see here. and here. You might like to read more about HRT here.

You say you have severe pain and nerve damage, well progesterone is an excellent anti inflammatory, but I have no idea if it will help in your case. It's worth a try though, as it does help nerves regenerate. Please see here. And here. And here. The amount is difficult to advise, normally between 100-200mg/day is required to have some beneficial affect. But I suspect you would have to use the higher amount of 200mg/day, possibly more, certainly initially. If you do try progesterone, please read here first.

Soy in any form, unless fermented, should be avoided. It slows the thyroid and has oestrogenic properties. For information on a cream please see here. You should also consider taking anti inflammatory nutrients too, 1600mg/day arginine, 1800mg/day N-acetyl cysteine, 2000mg/day taurine, and most important 5000iu's/day vitamin D. Take care, Wray
Jun 04, 2010
 Food sources for progesterone
by: Anonymous

There is a food source called lilac chaste tree which I have just planted and I believe the seeds are the source for progesterone replacement. The nursery I bought it from was Burnt Ridge Nursery in Onalaska Washington 98570. I have grown this tree for such purpose to assist other family members and my self. Search the web for anyone who grows this tree. My tree is an immature tree and has just been planted. No reason why you can't put one in your yard.
Jun 06, 2010
 Food sources for progesterone
by: Wray

Agnus castus has been used for many problems which women suffer from, PMS, mastalgia, menstrual irregularities, fibrocystic breasts, increasing lactation and more. In days gone by it was used by monks to reduce sexual desire, hence it's name 'chasteberry'. It can also reduce prolactin levels, which in turn can cause luteal phase dysfunction, with subsequent problems in embryo implantation. But because it has a mild oestrogenic action, levels of 17 beta-oestradiol can increase. One study found mild ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome occurred in the luteal phase. See here. And here.

If prolactin levels are high both progesterone and the amino acid tyrosine are very affective at suppressing it. To date no progesterone has been found in agnus castus. It's active constituents are found in the fruit and seeds and are the essential oils limonene, cineol, pinene, and sabinene. The iridoid glycosides aucubin, agnuside, and eurostide. The flavonoids casticin, kaempferol, quercetagetin, orientin, and isovitexin. And the diterpenes vitexilactone, rotundifuran, and 6-beta,7 beta-diacetoxy-13-hydroxy-labda-8,14-dien. It also contains several essential fatty acids, including oleic acid, linoleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid. Take care, Wray
Jun 07, 2010
 Please stop eating soy!
by: Anonymous

We all wonder where our autoimmune disorders are coming from and doctors love to prescribe meds to mask the problem. So many of us are simply eating and exposed to too many things in our environment that contain estrogens (soy, flaxseed). There is a long list of Xenoestrogens to avoid. You must have your hormone levels tested! You may find that you have an estrogen dominance over your lack of progesterone which is making your immune system go haywire and attack itself. Fix this balance by avoiding xenoestrogens and possibly using a NATURAL progesterone cream.
Jun 09, 2010
 Please stop eating soy!
by: Wray

Hi there Thanks for your support! I agree completely with you about the dangers of soy. There is more information on this web site for anyone interested in reading about it. Please see here. Take care, Wray
Jun 11, 2010
 Mirena
by: Anonymous

Hi Wray! Thanks for the information you are sharing with us. I had a myemectomy to remove a number of fibroids but after two months realised I still have a couple more fibroids! Just done a scan that has confirmed that and it has sent me into shock. I read somewhere that the Mirena contraceptive device when inserted in the vigina, releases progestogen and in turn reduces both the sizes of the fibroids and the heavy periods. Is that a good option? When you talk of the creams, can my JP prescribe them for me?
Jun 13, 2010
 How do I get creams?
by: Anonymous

I had my first baby 9 months ago and had quite severe post natal depression, prior to this I suffered from really bad pmt. I have been reading up on progesterone deficiency and am not sure if this may be what has caused the PND and PMT. I tried to discuss this with my doctor and he has prescribed Cerazzette which I think is making me feel worse. I asked for a progesterone cream but he said that the Cerazette would be more effective. I now don't know what to do. Can I buy creams over the counter in the UK or do I need a prescription? If I go back to the Drs can I insist on a cream?

Note from Webmaster:

For information on Natpro please click here. To order online for shipment to the UK please click here.
Jun 14, 2010
 Mirena
by: Wray

HI there Fibroids are stimulated by oestrogen, hence the return of yours. And they'll keep returning until the oestrogen is suppressed. For more info please see here. The Mirena does leak a progestogen into the system, this suppresses all ovarian function, so oestrogen production is stopped. Which is why it works, but at the same time no progesterone is made either, not a good thing! You might like to read what all OC's do to us here. I'm not sure where you live, but your doctor can prescribe a progesterone cream. But please make sure you use a high enough amount, between 100-200mg/day progesterone, although fibroids generally need the higher dose to begin with. For more info on how to use a cream please see here. Take care Wray
Jun 16, 2010
 How do I get creams?
by: Wray

Hi there I wouldn't hesitate to say the PMT and PND were caused by a lack of progesterone. I've helped too many recover from both to doubt it. Progesterone drops sharply after birth affecting up to 25% of women, from the baby blues to post natal psychosis. It also doesn't surprise me the contraceptive is making you feel worse. All OC's suppress progesterone levels, yours is already low, making it lower still will not help at all. Please see here. Although you've had your child, please read the web page we have on pregnancy, it might help in your descion. Please read the article by Dr Dalton too. Please see here. Please see the page we have on Natural Antidepressants Take care, Wray
Jun 17, 2010
 Help
by: Sophie

Dear Wray, I wonder if you can suggest something for me?
I have been prescribed Clomid a couple of months ago due to infertility - my progesterone levels are quite low (30 at peak). My FSH is a bit high (usually between 9-10). We also have another issue - my husband has a low sperm count. I have been on Clomid for 4 months and nothing happened.

From next month I am not taking Clomid anymore as although my progestreone levels are now fantastic (60-100 peak) and produce 2-4 eggs/cycle it does thin my endometrium so my doctor suggested to stop. Whilst we are waiting for IVF I would like to somehow naturally boost my progesterone level. I have read a lot of comments on this site. So, if there is no food that contains such hormone and no supplements either what can one do? Please help!
Jun 18, 2010
 Mirena
by: Anonymous

Thanks Wray! You are God sent. I will be seeing a gyna next week regarding the issue. At least I can make an informed decision. I will try the skin cream. Just knowing that there is someone out there who understands what I am going through makes it a lot easier. Thanks once again for the advice. Will keep you posted. Take care.
Jun 20, 2010
 Foods containing progesterone
by: Anonymous

Hi Wray, what is the best way to make hormone balance?
I want to make a balance between oestrogen and progestrone .

Last month I was diagnosed with PCOS. Doctor advised its due to hormonal imbalance so what should be done to make it balance.

Following things I have start doing...
1)Daily Exercise: I'm doing yoga early in morning for 45min to 1 hr.
2)Started eating green vegetables and fruit.
3)Taking low fat diet.
4)Walk in night time (2-3 times in a week)

What more can be done? Plz advise. Is Multi-vitamin supplement helpful ?
Jun 20, 2010
 Help
by: Wray

Hi Sophie Do you have infertility, I wonder! I would say your ovaries are malfunctioning for a reason, and this is usually inflammation. I don't know where you live, but are you getting enough sun? Vitamin D is vital for healthy ovaries and studies have shown it can induce ovulation. A low vitamin D also reduces the benefits of progesterone. Arginine, cysteine and inositol are all probably too low, studies have shown these three also initiate ovulation. It would be far safer, and beneficial too, to try these four nutrients rather than the clomiphene, please see here, and here We do have more info on all this, please see our web page on PCO. Are you stressed, as that inhibits the release of FSH and LH, and subsequent failure of an egg to develop? And your husband, does he consume soy in any form? As that reduces the sperm count, please see here There are some hair products which also reduce sperm count. A low zinc causes it too, please see here, and here. Progesterone is also important for sperm capacitation, please see here. Progesterone is also critical for the female too, please see here. Undoubtedly you will be given it after IVF treatment, as without sufficient no woman will carry a child to term. I'm not sure where you read there are no progesterone supplements as there are plenty and it comes in many forms... injections, suppositories, vaginal tablet, buccal drops, oral caps, troches/lozenges, gels, oils and creams. The creams are generally the preferred delivery system, as the progesterone they contain is absorbed well, and has been found to be as effective as injections and to enter circulation rapidly. They have an advantage over the other systems as they can be used where and when they are needed. On painful areas, particularly on the stomach for menstrual cramps, for migraines/headaches, in the vagina for dryness and inflammation, excellent for burns, on the face etc. They can be used anywhere on the body. The skin comprises 95% kerotinocytes, these have many progesterone receptor sites. For information on how to use them please see here. Take care Wray
Jul 13, 2010
 Progesterone
by: Tat

Hi there, some advice I would like to give. You can't increase progesterone, however, I would look more towards modulation of oestrogen/progesterone.

Look at increasing phytoestrogens.

There is also a product out there apart from from Chase tree to help with oestrogen dominance which is what this is.

Indole-3-carbinol will help reduce oestradiol (bad oestrogen) caused from xeno-oestrogens, OCP etc.
Jul 18, 2010
 Progesterone
by: Wray

Hi Tat It is possible to increase progesterone, there are many delivery systems which enable us to do this, please see Progesterone application methods. I can't agree about increasing phytoestrogens, as they too have an oestrogenic affect, albeit a mild one. Indole-3-carbinol is an excellent antioxidant, with known anti-cancer affects. Take care Wray
Jul 23, 2010
 How to get pregnant?
by: Zara

Dear All, In 2007 I met a man and said to him that I want to have a baby. My period stopped three months after and I thought I was pregnant, but later found I wasn't. My period came back 6-7 months later very heavily and disappeared for the next 6-7 months, and it has been like this up until now, 2010.

I have done numerous blood tests and found that my free androgen index is (14.4)which is twice higher then normal and SHBG is (13)lower then normal.

I never had any contraceptives and am quite a healthy eater. Doctors simply said they don't know the reason. I am still trying to get pregnant knowing that without having a period it is impossible.

Please help! Many Thanks.
Aug 01, 2010
 Soy and Dopamine Receptors
by: Carol

Dear Wray, My husband is having problems with the Dopamine Receptors in his brain - they don't seem to be accepting the optimum amount of Dopamine and this is causing abnormal muscle control in his right foot and dystonia of his neck (movement to the right and downwards). Could it possibly have been the case that Soy had caused his immune system to attack his dopamine receptors? He has always been terribly fond of using soy sauce in his cooking.
Aug 02, 2010
 Whats the real problem?
by: Anonymous

I think that there is much more to this than is presented. The question is, why are we not producing the proper amounts of hormones in our bodies the way nature intended? Why are we producing too little of some and too much of others? I too just got the results of my saliva test. My progesterone was extremely low and my testosterone extremely high. Thru talking to the comp. pharmacist and a little research I find that high levels of stress produces high cortisol which can wreak havoc on the body. But another thing that we over look is our diets. I also found out that I have insulin resistance and that a great majority of Americans have it and don't know it. Just research it and you will be surprised by what you find. We eat way too much sugar, grains, processed food, grain fed meat and meat from animals given antibiotics and hormones to fatten them up. Something has to be done about this and it all begins with awareness. Americans are becoming fatter and sicker and diabetes is a terrible disease that is becoming rampant. Why is nothing being done by the FDA whom I'm sure is aware of this problem?
Aug 16, 2010
 Try castor oil theraphy
by: valli

Dear Carol,

castor oil theraphy will help you in this, http://natural-fertility-info.com/castor-oil-therapy.
Aug 16, 2010
 Sorry Carol I typed the wrong name
by: valli

Sorry Carol my comment is for Zara, the castor oil theraphy is for irregular periods.
Aug 20, 2010
 Soy and Dopamine Receptors
by: Wray

Hi Carol I'm sorry but I've only just come across your question. If it's not too late for an answer here goes. Does he have high prolactin, as this hormone suppresses dopamine? Although prolactin used to be associated with milk production, it's now known to have a many other biological actions. It's also a pro-inflammatory hormone, but you mention no pain. Please see here. Oestrogen increases prolactin, whereas progesterone suppresses it. Oestrogen also suppresses progesterone. It's suspected that dystonia is caused by damage to the CNS, particularly the region of the brain concerned with motor function. Progesterone is neuroprotective, it re-establishes neurotransmission and neuromuscular function in motorneuron disease, another disease that impairs motor function. Parkinson?s disease is another neurodegenerative disorder with loss of melanin-containing neurons in the substantia nigra. Melanin is made from the amino acid tyrosine, so is dopamine, this is often in short supply, does he eat enough protein? Tyrosine also suppresses excess prolactin. Is he depressed, as low tyrosine leads to depression. Space doesn't allow me to give you the many papers on the neuroprotective affects of progesterone, I've given a few, please see here, here, and here. Normally fermented soy foods are fine, but soy does have oestrogenic properties, so it might be an idea to stop using the soy sauce. Has his oestrogen level been checked? If he should consider progesterone, he should start on 10mg/day and increase gradually till he finds the optimum. And tyrosine should be started low at 500mg/day and increased till the optimum is found too. Take care Wray
Sep 19, 2010
 Wow! I feel like a vampire
by: Lisa

I LOVE this page. It has been very helpful in my research to self diagnose and medicate. I don't trust many general practitioners. So, I took a symptom "test" and based on the answers, I am SURE my progesterone levels are low. I have ordered a saliva test. Here is something I don't understand is why do I feel like I want to eat meat like a crazy person???? Especially beef. I have had these symptoms of mine, increasingly over the last year and now I almost feel ill after eating if the food does not include some sort of lean beef. I crave milk AND oddly enough, things with vinegar in them like sour kraut and pickles.

Any thoughts????
Sep 19, 2010
 Wow! I feel like a vampire
by: Lisa

Oh, and please, will you tell me the best progesterone cream to use?
Sep 25, 2010
 I am worried - Trying to conceive
by: Zahra

Hi Wray, after reading all the comments here, now I know that soy is not useful at all.

I have missed my period and hoping that I am pregnant but I have not done any pregnancy test yet. A few days back (at least for 4 days after missing period) I have been drinking 2 glasses of soy milk everyday but have stopped after reading your posts. Will it affect my pregnancy in case if I am pregnant? Hope you can advise. Thanks.
Sep 25, 2010
 Progesterone
by: AnonymousJoy Evans

Hi, Have seen some research showing Tongkat Ali increases progesterone in men and women. Your thoughts on this. Thanks Joy
Sep 27, 2010
 low progesterone level with Factor 5
by: Brock

My wife has factor 5, low progesterone and doens't know what to do? Her doctor wants her to insert an IUD but doesn't understand the risks as none of her patients have ever had this condition. with there not being natural progesterone we don't know what to do. Can anyone help?
Sep 28, 2010
 low progesterone and infertility
by: Teresa

Hi Wray, I am 27 and have been doing ivf for approx 1 yr. my husband and i dont have any reasons for infertility, except rapid drop in progesterone levels in the 2nd wk after implantation. i am on daily progesterone pessaries (400mg inserted in the vagina)which always gives me high levels (approx 180)however this always drops in wk 2 after implantation. is there any way i can keep my levels sustained? ivf clinic is happy to plod along until 'as long as it takes' and not increase my dose...
Oct 01, 2010
 Progestins for heavy bleeding
by: Anne

I am 51 and have had very heavy bleeding for the past 12 days. I am normally a remarkably healthy person using a lot of natural remedies and avoid medical practitioners. But today a new DR prescribed a progestin to reduce bleeding. She also found an ovarian cyst which is probably the cause of the bleeding. I am reluctant to take the medicine but need to stop the bleeding. Is there anything else I can do?
Oct 04, 2010
 Wow! I feel like a vampire
by: Wray

Hi Lisa Thanks for the kind words. When you get the saliva test back divide the progesterone result by the oestrogen result. This will give you the ratio between the two hormones, progesterone should be the dominant hormone if we want to feel well. The ratio should be over 600:1, which incidentally is far higher than the 'normal' ratios given. If you should consider progesterone once your tests have come back, please see our page on How to use progesterone cream for more info. You might like to see a page we have on the various delivery systems too, see Progesterone application methods. It sounds as if you are a Protein Type, they need more protein and love sour things, I'm one. For more info please see our page on Nutrition and Diet. Dr Mercola explains this on his web site, you'll find a link. Alternatively look at the Paleo Diet which is less complicated, they advocate a diet based on humans living 40,000 and more years ago. It could also be your body is trying to tell you it needs more protein, we need it for healing and growth. Take care Wray
Oct 04, 2010
 I am worried - Trying to conceive
by: Wray

Hi Zahra Soy is not a good food, it has too high a level of phytoestrogens, particularly genistein and diadzein. These are found primarily in legumes and grains, so none of these should be eaten. Due to their similarity to an oestrogen molecule, phytoestrogens are able to bind to oestrogen receptors. The similarity arises because both oestrogen and the phytoestrogens have a phenolic or triple bonded A-ring. This enables the phytoestrogens to exert an oestrogenic effect on the cell it binds to. Please see these papers here, here, and Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord. 2008;26(1):50-7 There is no evidence that it will adversely affect a pregnancy. Please see our page on Pregnancy for more info on how to use progesterone if you should need it. Take care Wray
Oct 04, 2010
 Progesterone
by: Wray

Hi Joy I've no experience in the use of Tongkat Ali, but here are some papers which show it does increase sexual arousal. See here, here, here and here. It also appears to have effective anti-malarial and anti-cancer properties, see here plus anti-bacterial properties, see here. Finally it seems to have anxiolytic properties, much as progesterone does, see here. But I can't find one paper that says it increases progesterone levels. Take care Wray
Oct 05, 2010
 low progesterone level with Factor 5
by: Wray

Hi Brock You say you wife has Factor V, a deficiency of this can lead to bleeding, but a mutation such as Factor V Leiden (FVL) leads to clots. I'm not sure which she has. Assuming she has the mutation then exogenous oestrogen increases the risk of clots, irrespective of whether a person has protein C and/or S deficiency, or hyperhomocysteinemia. Having any of these pathologies increases the risk further, oestrogen in any form is contraindicated. Please see our page on HRT. And these papers here and here. In FVL, factor V remains active, which allows over production of thrombin, leading to excess clotting. Oestrogen increases the affect of thrombin, progesterone on the other hand decreases it by 10-15%, please see here. It also protects against lipid peroxidation and atherosclerosis, please see here and here. The only safe contraceptive is the copper T IUD, it doesn't leak a drug into the body, see here. If your wife should consider using progesterone, please read this page on How to use progesterone cream. She might like to see the other delivery systems available, please see our page on Progesterone application methods.
Take care Wray
Oct 05, 2010
 low progesterone and infertility
by: Wray

Hi Teresa The 2nd week after implantation is round about the time you would normally have a period. I can only assume your body is responding to this cycle and the corpus luteum is slowing down production of progesterone. Although you are using a very good amount of progesterone, this drop could probably be enough to cause the miscarriage. The corpus luteum (CL) stops production of progesterone ±14 days after ovulation in the monthly cycle. After conception it continues to make it, but only if hCG levels are high enough. hCG stimulates the CL to make progesterone. I assume they have checked hCG levels? Please see the American Pregnancy Association website for levels of hCG during pregnancy and here too. It might be an idea to ask about getting hCG injections. Alternatively increase the amount of progesterone you are using, after all this is the hormone that's needed, hCG merely stimulates the CL to keep producing it. Although there is some thought that it does affect the immune tolerance of the pregnancy too. One other thing, you are only using the pessary once a day, progesterone levels drop after about 13hrs. Please try to get 200mg pessaries, or even 100mg and use them 4 times a day, this will ensure levels remain high throughout the day. If you can't get a higher dose from the clinic, and you want to try increasing the amount, I suggest supplementing with a cream too, more info on How to use progesterone cream. I know it works as I've recently helped two women, who now each have a child. We do have a page on Pregnancy you might like to read through. Take care Wray
Oct 05, 2010
 Progestins for heavy bleeding
by: Wray

Hi Anne Yes there is something else you can do to stop the bleeding. Progesterone stops it, but the level has to be high. The progestins can stop it but the adverse side effects are not worth the risk, please see our page on Contraceptives. I don't think the cyst would be the cause, as it lies outside the uterus, the bleeding is coming from this. But the cyst does indicate your progesterone is low, as they are stimulated by oestrogen. Oestrogen is a mitogen, it stimulates cells to grow, including the egg/s. Vital in stimulating the endometrium each month to grow and thicken ready for a possible fertilised egg. But in excess it stimulates cells to continue growing. MMP?s are enzymes that break down protein. They play a role in the breakdown of endometrial tissues at the end of the menstrual cycle. If they are over active, as would be the case with excess oestrogen in the body, as oestrogen stimulates their production, the result is a pathological reaction. A high level of MMP?s can lead to inflammation and excessive bleeding in the uterus. If a low level of progesterone is present, and a high level of oestrogen, the lining will continue to grow. With a high level of MMP?s the lining will also continue to break down. Progesterone suppresses both MMP?s and oestrogen. Please see here, here, here, here and here. It is essential to use a high amount of progesterone, between 400-600mg/day. If the bleeding is continual, use it both daily and hourly. Using it hourly keeps the level high throughout the day. If there is a cycle, it?s best to ignore it and use the progesterone daily, hourly too, until the bleeding is under control. The progesterone can be used to regulate the cycle once bleeding has stopped. P-M is such a difficult time, please see our page Peri-menopause. Take care Wray
Oct 10, 2010
 No sleep, especially before period
by: Robyn

Wray, I have read almost every comment. I have learned so much. I think I fall into some of those categories. I had my first child 14 years ago and haven't been able to sleep w/o meds ever since. I finally focused on patterns I found that I don't sleep at all 2 nights before I start my period. Last night I slept 1 hour. I have to take Lunesta every night (and niacin and melatonin and other vitamins). Right before my cycle there isn't enough Lunesta or ambian to even make a dent. I had a sleep study done. They said "my mind thinks it's time to wake up every 9 minutes". I am desperate. I don't concentrate; have memory loss, irritability and periodic anxiety. My breast hurt badly before I menstruate. I have changed my diet, I exercise, don't drink any caffeine and read sleep disorder books. I will ask my Dr. for a test... But would you say it sounds like unbalanced progesterone issues?
Oct 11, 2010
 Could I have too much estrogen?
by: Gin

Wray, love your feedback if you or any others have any.

I am 37 and since puberty have had heavy bleeding and had noticed hair loss. Now reading about lowered progesterone and high estrogen can be the cause of insomia, hair loss and other symptoms... I am wondering wether this could be what I have? My hair sheds lot more b4 and after period and surprisingly less during. I have been checked for low iron and vitamin d and my thyroid came back ok.

Been popping vitamin d and iron but makes me wonder wether this is a secondary problem to the hormone imbalance...?
Oct 14, 2010
 No sleep, especially before period
by: Wray

Hi Robyn Yes it does sound like a progesterone issue. The not sleeping 2 nights before your period fits, as progesterone drops sharply then. If the ratio of oestrogen to progesterone becomes skewed, any number of symptoms can occur. Progesterone also drops after giving birth, from over 400mg/day to the normal ±20mg/day. This sends up to 25% of women into some form of post natal depression, from the baby blues to post natal psychosis. Actually depression is the wrong term, as many symptoms can manifest. I had it for four years, but my symptoms were hunger, exhaustion and muscle weakness. Sleep disorders can occur too, progesterone is excellent for this, see here, here, and in men too, see here. The nucleoside adenosine induces sleep, see here. Progesterone increases adenosine levels, see here. I would hazard a guess it was due to the drop in progesterone after you had your first child, which set the pattern you now have. I take it you've had another since, as you say 'first' child. How did you feel in that pregnancy, did you still experience the disrupted sleep or did it correct itself, only to start again once you'd had it? You are taking melatonin, but I've found the precursor amino acid tryptophan better, have you tried that? Inositol is another nutrient you should try too and tyrosine, the precursor to dopamine. Dopamine is involved in the wake-sleep cycle, see here. I generally recommend 100-200mg/day progesterone, but feel you will need the higher end, if not more initially. For more info please see How to use progesterone cream. Please see our page on Anxiety for info on the nutrients I've mentioned. Take care Wray
Oct 14, 2010
 Could I have too much estrogen?
by: Wray

Hi Gin It certainly sounds as if you could have done with more progesterone since puberty. It's very effective for heavy bleeding, the amount varies with the severity. I generally suggest between 100-200mg/day for normal use, but up to 400-600mg/day is needed if exceptionally heavy and continuous, ie with little distinction between one period and the next. Progesterone does help sleep, I can see I'll have to do a page on this, as I have so many queries on it, and many papers too, there's not the space to give them in my answer. But please see these two here and here. The problem with insomnia is it's multifactorial, but what factor or factors are involved, often many. The nucleoside adenosine is needed, progesterone increases this. The amino acid tryptophan is the precursor to serotonin, which is then synthesised into melatonin our sleep hormone. Progesterone raises serotonin levels slightly, so does the B vitamin inositol. Inositol is also called the anti-alopecia vitamin, it's definitely something to consider taking for the hair loss. Other calming amino acids worth considering are taurine, glycine, GABA and tyrosine. Dopamine is involved in the the wake-sleep cycle, a lack leading to an overactive mind. The amino acid tyrosine is worth considering, as this is the precursor to dopamine. Many of these nutrients are listed on our page on Anxiety, please look through it for more info. I find it fascinating that the same amino acids are needed for insomnia, disrupted sleep, memory and concentration problems, anxiety, depression, and more. They are all either neurotransmitters, or are converted into them. Two more nutrients you should consider for the hair loss are 2000mg/day N-acetyl cysteine and 2-3 mg biotin. Plus the inositol of course, about 2000mg/day of that. I hope you are taking about 5000iu's/day vitamin D, it's such a vital substance, please see the Vitamin D council website for more info. And if you are interested in trying progesterone please see this page on How to use progesterone. There's more info here too on Progesterone application methods. Take care Wray
Oct 14, 2010
 WANT A PREGNANCY AT 43 YEARS
by: SHARON, HYGIENIST

Hello Wray, i used Natpro for the last 14 days of my cycle. i used 5 entire bottles over the 14 day period... some days I felt better... some days I felt worse with severe flu-like symptoms. My periods are usually uneventful... 2-3 days light bleeding. No spotting. No real pain normally... except this month while using the Natpro at such high dosages... severe depression, severe pain but very little bleeding this period. I took the deficiency quiz before starting the Natpro and answered 'yes' to almost every question. I have had 3 miscarriages over the last 7 years. I am 43 and 7 months old. I would love to have a child... should I do the cream continuously for the next three months in order to become progesterone dominant and then allow my periods to resume normally?

I don't know the best way to handle this. Why are my periods short and light? Is that a problem? Ovulation tests every month show that I am ovulating. I hav ovulation pain but no period pain normally. I am not overweight and I exercise and eat right. I want to get pregnant and keep the pregnancy. I also have asthma. Can you help?
Oct 15, 2010
 WANT A PREGNANCY AT 43 YEARS
by: Wray

Hi Sharon That's a very good dose, it gave you about 715mg/day progesterone. I'm surprised you had depression and pain with that amount, normally it would not occur. I can only assume you have a high oestrogen level, this would also account for answering yes to almost all the questions. I'm not sure if you've seen our page on Oestrogen Dominance, explaining this, if not please read through it. I do recommend using the cream daily for about 3 months if symptoms are severe, so I suggest you try this. If you find you're feeling better within a month or two you could then follow your cycle again, but see how you get on. There's nothing wrong with short, light periods. Normal menstruation ranges from 2 to 7 days. The blood lost during this time varies from 10 to 80ml, the average being about 35ml. Progesterone is excellent for asthma, please see here and here. The asthma suggests you are very short in vitamin D too, please have a test done, see the Vitamin D council website for more info. And these papers on asthma, it's vital for a developing foetus too, here, here, here and here. And The Vitamin D Newsletter for info on pregnancy. We also have a page on Pregnancy, please look through it, as it explains the role progesterone plays and how to use it. A lack of vitamin D reduces the benefits of progesterone. Two other supps you should consider for pregnancy are omega 3 fish oil, not cod liver oil. And taurine, also vital for the foetus, see here, here and here. Take care Wray
Oct 15, 2010
 WANTING A BABY AT 43...
by: SHARON, HYGIENIST

HEY WRAY... I FORGOT TO MENTION THAT ON THE DAY I OVULATED [CONFIRMED BY OVULATION PREDICTOR TEST], I DEVELOPED A SEVERE UTI THAT I AM STILL FIGHTING... IT IS FEELING MUCH BETTER, BUT IS STILL EVIDENT...I'M USING ALL NATURAL REMEDIES TO TREAT....NO ANTIBIOTICS FOR ME...! MY QUESTION IS THIS...COULD THE UTI BE RELATED TO MY SEVERE HORMONAL IMBALANCE? THE UTI IS GOING ON ALMOST THREE WEEKS NOW...USING BRAGGS ORGANIC APPLE CIDER VINEGAR AND PARSLEY AND NETTLE TEA. ALSO, I KEEP READING ON THIS SITE ABOUT WOMEN WITH HEAVY BLEEDING DURING THEIR PERIODS, AND I ALWAYS EQUATED THAT WITH PROGESTERONE DEFICIENCY BUT AS I NEVER HAVE HAD HEAVY OR PAINFUL PERIODS, EVEN WHEN I WAS YOUNGER, I NEVER THOUGHT LIGHT UNEVENTFUL PERIODS COULD ALSO BE INCLUDED IN PROGESTERONE IMBALANCES. ARE LIGHT AND SHORT AND UNEVENTFUL PERIODS NORMAL? DO YOU KNOW HOW MUCH BLOOD LOSS IS CONSIDERED NORMAL? I WEAR ONLY PANTY LINERS DURING MY PERIOD. I HAVE A SON WHO IS 19 YEARS OLD AND MY PERIODS SEEM ABOUT THE SAME NOW AS THEN. I DID NOT BEGIN MENSES UNTIL AGE 16. THEY SEEMED NORMAL TO ME, UNTIL I BEGAN TO READ HOW SO MANY WOMEN SEEM TO HAVE COPIOUS AMOUNTS OF BLOOD DURING THEIR PERIODS. MY PERIODS HAVE NEVER INTRUDED IN A NEGATIVE WAY IN MY LIFESTYLE. ALSO, FOR THE LAST 10 YEARS, I HAVE BEEN VERY PRONE TO YEAST INFECTIONS...I TAKE BOAT LOADS OF PROBIOTICS DAILY. I WAS JUST WONDERING...THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR ANY LIGHT YOU CAN SHED ON THESE QUESTIONS FOR ME. THIS WEBSITE HAS BEEN A TRUE WONDER FOR ME AND I LOVE THE NATPRO CREAM...I FEEL LIKE JUST TAKING A BATH IN IT..!!!! THANKS AGAIN

Note from webmaster: Hello Sharon, if and when you post again (your posts are much appreciated) please use lower case. Upper case throughout makes it difficult to read. Thank you.
Oct 17, 2010
 baby at 43
by: sharon, HYGIENIST

Hello Wray....so sorry I posted in all capital letters..! Thank you so much for all those informative sites...they were great! I had no idea that vit D deficiency was linked to asthma. I only developed asthma 10 years ago and my last vit d level checked out at 46 in Aug this year...I am on a 50,000iu supplement once weekly now and will retest in 6 months...I loved all those informative sites you gave me! I intend to begin the Taurine as you suggested. Do you have a recommendation as to the daily dosage? I used to take fish oil supplements but just recently switched to a combo of EFA's that include flax, evening primrose oil, high linoleic sunflower oil,pumpkin oil, and high linoleic safflower oil {all organic} with total combined of 3,000 mg daily. Should I add the fish oil or replace this combo with the fish oil only? I will use the progesterone cream continuously for the next three months and see how I do...I truly think you are a Godsend to us women who are having all these hormonal issues...you can not imagine how much I appreciate your knowledge and expertise in this area....Thank God He answered my prayers for help in you...!!! All my obgyn did when I went to see her in April this year was to give me a script for Wellbutrin [an antidepressant] and to suggest the birthcontrol pill for all my symptoms. I have been having these symptoms for many years now...symptoms of estrogen dominance! I will "gut it" out with the symptoms, knowing now that there is light at the end of this dark tunnel!!! Thank you again so much for all your help...oh, almost forgot...do you know if there is a link between my UTI [three weeks now} and estrogen dominance and do you know any natural cures? I have been using all the natural cures that I know...I so do not want to use antibiotics...I am already so prone to severe yeast infections...! Thanks again...May the Lord so richly bless you and yours!
Oct 19, 2010
 baby at 43
by: Wray

Hi Sharon Not to worry about the upper case, although it does make it harder to read, as the webmaster said! And bless you for the kind words too! 50,000iu's/day of vitamin D is a good dose, but it's best to take it daily, and not weekly. Between 5000-10000iu's per day. Taurine is very safe, I take 5000mg/day. I suggest you start with 2000mg/day and increase till you find the optimum dose. I'm more in favour of the fish oil only, as we get omega 6 from the vegetable oils, nuts and seeds we eat. We can convert GLA, which is found in evening primrose oil, from linoleic acid, so I see no reason for taking that either. Omega 3 is usually low in most diets as many people don't eat oily fish. In fact the ratio of O6:O3 is currently about 30:1, whereas most authorities believe it should be nearer 2:1 or even 1:1. It's a pity the two standard drugs given to us for 'women's problems' are antidepressants and the contraceptive pill. As if we needed drugs for health, the body only needs nutrients for this. And there is a link between fungal infections and oestrogen, it exacerbates it hugely. Please see here, here and here. I suggest using some of the cream in your vagina each night. If it's inflamed it might sting a little initially, but this soon goes, as progesterone is an excellent anti-inflammatory too. I've found one of the best natural remedies is caprylic acid, it's an extract from coconut oil. This is also mildly affective against infections too, and one of the best oils to cook with. Caprylic acid comes in tablets or an oil, I prefer the oil, as it can be applied externally too. It often goes under the name of MCT oil, body builders use it for increased energy. 5ml of MCT oil will give about 3000mg caprylic acid, which I've found sufficient for most problems. It is very safe, but in higher amounts it does have a slight laxative effect. Another thing to consider is Nystatin, this is a soil bacteria which also kills candida. But it can only affect the fungi in the gut, as it's not absorbed through the gut wall as MCT oil is. We do have a page with more info, please see Candida. Take care Wray
Oct 25, 2010
 baby at 43
by: sharon ledger

Hey Wray, Thank you so much for all the wonderful info. I have ordered the anti-inflammatory formula from your site. As it contains 2,000mg taurine, i will start there and then gradually increase the taurine until I get to 5,000mg daily, as you suggested. Do you know of a pure brand where I can purchase the taurine separately? i thank you for the info on the fish oil as well. Do you have a website where i can purchase this as well, in its purest form? As i have been using the cream now, non-stop, i can no longer take the flax and evening primrose oil. i took 2 on saturday and within 30 minutes, I began to feel the flu-like symptoms and asthma. I believe these oils must be estrogenic, in some way...? Is this true? I immediately began using the cream hourly and by the evening, was feeling much better! Wow, using the cream non-stop has really excited the estrogen and i am feeling pretty horrible. I absolutely have read your page on estrogen dominance when first beginning the cream. I am just wondering how long before I can get to the top of this mountain and achieve PROGESTERONE DOMINANCE! I know you have no way of knowing that, as each person is different. I believe, in your testimony, you said it took 6 months for all of your symptoms to subside...? Oh well, I plan to gut it out and get there...! I have definately noticed that some foods I eat make me feel worse, so I have been monitoring my diet even more closely. I find all this with hormonal balance [or the lack thereof], very very interesting. I plan to use the cream non-stop for the next 3 months and then allow my cycles to resume normally. i am assuming that i will not bleed for the next 3 months, correct? How do I allow my normal cycles to resume at the end of my 3 period of non-stop cream? should I begin to taper off the cream the week before I want my period to begin again? I apologize if these questions seem obtuse to you. I really am just finding out about hormonal imbalances, etc. And the knowledge I now have acquired has come through your wonderful web site! I have been giving your web site info out to many of my female patients. I believe you are truly a gift to all of us women. Thank you again so much for all your help. God Bless! Oh- I almost forgot...I have a sister-in-law who is about 6 weeks pregnant. She will be 36 years old and is very sick with lots of extreme cramping at night. I have already put her on the cream [I ordered 20 tubes with my last order] and she is feeling better. I suggested to her 3 teaspoons daily [500mg, I think] and her nausea is so much better and cramping too! So I thank you for helping me to help her...paying it forward, as it were! HAHAHAHA! Thanks!
Oct 29, 2010
 baby at 43
by: Wray

Hi Sharon So pleased it was of help. I hope the formula helps, please remember all natural things take longer to have a positive reaction. Healing is taking place at the cellular level, but we are unaware of it. One day I hope to have all the nutrients on our site, but have to content myself with the formulas to start with. One of the best sources of supplements is LEF. Interesting you reacted to the oils, unfortunately they do contain phytoestrogens, albeit a very small amount. The following are some foods which contain phytoestrogens...

  • nuts and oilseeds including flax seed, sesame seeds

  • grains ie wheat, oats, barley, rice, wheat germ, rice bran, including breads and cereals

  • legumes contain the highest amount, ie soybeans and all soy

  • products such as tofu, miso, tempeh and soy milk. Also lentils, alfalfa, mung beans, fenugreek, peanut, chick pea, kudzu, lupine, broad bean, red clover

  • yams

  • ginseng

  • hops and beer

  • fennel, caraway and anise

  • All legumes contain high levels of phytoestrogens, plus trypsin inhibitors, phytates and goitrogens.


    • In fact the staple diets of most of the world's population! But if you read the Paleo Diet, you'll see they advocate avoiding all grains, legumes and dairy. In fact eat no food which was developed after the start of agriculture, ±10,000 years ago, please see The Paleo Diet. I'm sorry you're feeling 'pretty horrible', but thank heavens you know what's causing it and how to overcome it. I don't believe it will take as long as 6 months for it to settle down. I was using the standard recommended amount, 20-40mg/day, as I knew no better then. It was only after reading Dr Dalton's work that I found a high amount is essential. I can't say if you will stop bleeding, I've found the amount has to be about 400-600mg/day to stop it. But what will most likely happen is your cycle will continue but be erratic. To start a cycle again, decide when you are ready and then just stop the cream. You should bleed in a day or two. Don't taper off. So if you do continue having a cycle, time it so that you stop approximately 28 days after the first day of your last bleed. Unless you know the length of your cycle, in which case time it following that. Bless you for your kind words, and paying it forward too! Your sister-in-law does need a high dose for nausea and cramping while pregnant. I've found the minimum is 2tsp/day or ±330mg progesterone, so the 500mg was excellent. Please warn her not to reduce the amount suddenly, she must taper off once she feels better. A sudden drop in progesterone can cause a miscarriage. Please ask her to read our page on Pregnancy. Take care Wray
    Nov 03, 2010
    		 Hormonal Balance Naturally
    by: Anonymous

    I'm not actually sure what my hormonal levels are like, but I have been told that it is very possible I have a deficiency of one or more hormones or an issue with excess of a certain hormone.

    Anyway, I'll get to the point. I have 11 1/2 cm ovarian cysts between my two ovaries. I have very sporadic, light bleeds that seem to last forever.. maybe stopping for 4 days at a time and starting back up again.

    I was prescribed Metformin to get rid of the cysts and then prescribed "Sronyx" Birth Control. I, however, am very suspicious of any RXs and have not taken either of these.

    I was wondering if you might know of some good paths to start that might naturally shrink the cysts and restore a normal cycle.

    I must say that my eating habits are sporadic and few and far in between. I don't have caffeine ANYMORE, and also have a family history of ovarian cysts AND endometriosis. I often deal with stress and anxiety, also. Would these be factors contributing to cyst growth? What can I do to naturally get better? What foods should I avoid? Is Evening Primrose Oil helpful?

    Any help will be much appreciated. Thank you so much!
    Nov 04, 2010
    		 baby at 43
    by: sharon, HYGIENIST

    Hello, Wray... Thank you so much for ALL the wonderful information! I gotta tell you, I am sending most of the women in my life, both professionally and personally, to your amazing site! I continue to praise you and all the extraordinary work and research that you have done on behalf of all hormonally imbalanced women worldwide. May I just articulate to you once again, my eternal appreciation and gratitude for ALL your hardwork and care given...you are a gift to us all! Thank you...I appreciate you...more than you can ever know! God Bless!
    Nov 06, 2010
    		 Low Estradiol and Progesterone
    by: Anonymous

    Hi Wray,
    I found your page here is very useful and I learn more about hormonal matters because you tell the mechanism how these hormones work. Now, I'd like to have you suggestion to solve my problem.

    I'm female of 54 years old and I'm suspected to have a Struma multinodosa with an increase size of lymph gland (on my neck) and after taking a hormonal test, it's found that I have imbalance hormones (low estradiol and progesteron). Other components of FT3, FT4, TSHs, LH, FSH and Prolactin are in normal range.
    While,
    Estradiol < 5 pg/mL (post-menopause < 54.7)
    Progesteron 0.119 ng/mL (post-menopause 0.1-0.8)

    My Doctor gave me Wild Yam, Primrose evening oil and Vitex agnus-castus and Omega-3 to reduce inflammation (Are all those kind of pills sort of HRT treatment?)

    What do you think of my estrogen and progesteron ratio. Are those pills useful for me (I'm still confused to consume it because I heard that HRT will trigger a cancer).

    What should I do and what are foods that appropriate/good for me to consume (help me to ease my hormonal imbalance)?
    Nov 07, 2010
    		 Hormonal Balance Naturally
    by: Wray

    Hi there Cystic ovaries, poly cystic ovaries and endo are caused by oxidative stress. Often the common link is a lack of vitamin D, please have a test done. Most of us have too low a level, see the Vitamin D council website. I'm relieved you avoided the diabetic drug metformin, this only treats one symptom, an elevated glucose level, not the cause. And contraceptives are worse than useless, and come with many adverse side effects, please see our page on them. Yes, stress and anxiety have a huge bearing on our reproductive functions. A high level of stress causes dopamine levels to drop and prolactin to rise. High prolactin inhibits the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and gonadotropic-releasing hormone (GnRH) which leads to hypogonadism. In women this suppresses the ovulatory cycle causing irregular periods, anovulation, with subsequent difficulty in falling pregnant, and a possible loss of libido and breast pain too. In some women, menstruation may disappear altogether.
    There are many nutrients which help with stress, please see our page on Anxiety. We do have a page on PCOS. It's as relevant to cystic ovaries as it is to poly cystic ovaries. There is a link to our nutrition page too. Finally we have a page on Endometriosis in case it helps others in your family. Take care Wray
    Nov 08, 2010
    		 baby at 43
    by: Wray

    Hi Sharon Bless you for the kind words! Having been through hell and back myself, and found my sanity again once using progesterone, it was difficult to keep quiet! As I need to know why something works, I found myself searching for studies on Google Scholar. And not just on progesterone, I've found all the wonderful nutrients the body needs for healing and growth, also had many successful studies too. But not in the doses found in caps or tabs in health shops, at doses far higher. Your words bring joy to my heart, bless you! Take care Wray
    Nov 08, 2010
    		 Low Estradiol and Progesterone
    by: Wray

    Hi there I'm pleased the info has helped you. I'm not sure what you mean by Struma multinodosa, it seems to be a German term for a goitre. I hope I'm right! Most often this particular problem is caused by lack of iodine. Was this checked? I'm puzzled your thyroid hormones are normal, as they usually show a low level. On the other hand if it becomes toxic, they can become high. Your oestradiol is lower than normal for post menopause, while your progesterone does fall in the normal range. But the ratio of the two hormones is out, yours is 23.8:1. I've found this a better indicator of how well we feel. In fact from saliva tests we run, it should be 600:1 or over. The supplements your doctor has given you are all natural and not HRT, although I would avoid the vitex, as it is a phytoestrogen. Although very weak, these are still oestrogens. Progesterone is an excellent anti-inflammatory. So is the amino acid N-acetyl cysteine, take 2000mg/day. Vitamin D too, please have a test done, a lack of this affects the thyroid. For more info please see the Vitamin D council website. If you should consider the progesterone, please use between 100-200mg/day. For more info please see our page on Menopause. We do have a page on Nutrition and Diet, please have a look through it. There's a list of things to avoid, plus info on diet too. Take care Wray
    Nov 09, 2010
    		 I have not got my period for 2 years
    by: sherry

    Hi, I have not got my period for 2 years and I am scared to take birth control since I have heard they make people gain weight. My ob gyn doctor suggested me to use progesterone pills I assume it is called provera for 10 days hoping that helps me. I have not used it yet because some people say one of side effects is weight gain. I tested my thyroid, but it was fine. I am 5.3" and I lost weight and became 112, however, I have gained again and I am 130 now. When I was 112 I had a huge belly and now too. I am constipated too. My belly looks like a pregnant lady, and I always have to suck it in. I did lab tests too and my uterus and ovaries were fine. Some people say lack of dat and over exercising may lead that. What can I do now? Please help me.
    Nov 11, 2010
    		 I have not got my period for 2 years
    by: Wray

    Hi Sherry I'm guessing you are not menopausal, as you mention birth control pills. The 'progesterone' pill will almost certainly be a synthetic, particularly as it's being offered by a doctor. If you want convincing, please see this comment here. And please see our page on Contraceptives. I'm not sure what you mean by lack of 'dat'? And yes, if you over exercise this does stop ovarian function, as it stops cholesterol production. Cholesterol is vital, it's the precursor to our steroid hormones. It could be you lack fat in your diet, possibly the 'dat' was meant to be 'fat'? The D and the F are right next to each other on the key board. If you do avoid fat, this is very definitely a reason. Please make sure you get sufficient, this low fat/no fat craze is very damaging to our health. Eat only the good fats, saturated (coconut, butter), mono-unsaturated (olive, macadamia, apricot oils) and the medium chain triglycerides (extracted from coconuts). Avoid all the poly-unsaturated fats, except for organic cold pressed flax oil which has so many benefits, but never use it for cooking, see here. Especially avoid all oxidised fats, these occur with refining and over heating. Something has damaged your ovaries, or is causing them to malfunction. Progesterone is an essential part in helping the ovaries regain function, so are the antioxidants. Although you don't have PCOS, please read this page, as it explains the possible causes of ovarian failure and what to do. Take care Wray
    Nov 11, 2010
    		 baby at 43...
    by: sharon, HYGIENIST

    Hello Wray. As we had discussed earlier, I decided to use the cream for the next 3 months [at least] and ignore my cycles completely in order to become progesterone dominate. I am feeling better but I have found that I must STAY at about 500 mg daily... I do not measure it exactly. You told me that my cycles would probably become erratic and you were spot on! I began the cream on day 4 of my cycle and I am usually on a very regular 28-29 day cycle with 2-3 days bleeding and hardly any spotting before or after. But now this has all changed. I began spotting on day 20 [16 days after my last bleeding day]. I spotted for 2 days then had a period with bleeding for 4 days and now spotting for these last 4 days. I have now been on the cream continuously for 26 days. My period came 8 days early and has been 10 days long [counting the spotting days as well]. Also my breasts are so sore that I am tempted to wear my bra to sleep at night... excruciatingly sore, in fact. Do you know why they are so sore...?

    I am taking the anti-inflammatory mixture twice daily and the caprylic acid [the UTI is still present but does feel better] and the other things you suggested. My questions are these... do you know why am I spotting all these days... before and after my "too early" period? Is this just "par for the course" since I am on the cream non-stop? Do I just continue on with the non-stop cream even though the spotting is happening? Should I increase my dosage to maybe 700mg or so daily to get the spotting to stop? Also due to the extreme breasts soreness, should I increase my dosage to alleviate that? If you suggest increasing the dosage, please advise me on suggested length of time at newer dose and at what dosage [in teaspoons and mg's]?

    I will follow your suggestions as I trust your experience and research. I am determined to "lick" these unbalanced hormonal issues so feel free to just "lay it all out there" for me. I have suffered so long with these hormonal problems [since age 34] that I would eat dirt if your research and experience showed it helped...haha! Really though, I thank you in advance for once again helping me to get to the bottom of this...once and for all! Thank you once again!
    Nov 14, 2010
    		 baby at 43...
    by: Wray

    Hi Sharon You are having a rough ride! I wish this didn't happen, in fact I'm surprised it did with the high amount you are using. But then I'm always learning from the women brave enough to follow my advice! You might like to read through this page here. Although she was using a much lower amount than you, it shows the ups and downs of using progesterone. One thing most of us forget is the amount of oestrogen we are all getting, men too. It's in our food, water, air and the skin care we use, please see the website Our Stolen Future. We also forget stress, this drops progesterone levels sharply. As an aside, my nails recently became very weak and were breaking, as they did before I found progesterone. Obviously stress related, although I was unaware of extra. So I increased to 330mg/day (2 tsp of cream) and within 2 weeks they are now strong again. I did suffer aches and pains while increasing the progesterone, all thankfully gone! Your sore breasts are caused by oestrogen, this is a known initiator of inflammation and water retention, see here and here Please rub cream on them at least twice a day, it should help. So pleased the caprylic acid is helping the UTI, hope you managed to get the oil, I've found this far better than the tabs, stronger too. The spotting, longer period, earlier period, are all due to the body getting used to the high amount of progesterone you're using. I can only ask you to persevere, and it would be a good idea to increase it. You used about 700mg/day initially, the severe reaction you had to this, plus your 3 miscarriages, shows how low you are in it. Try this amount again, but please watch out for a reaction as you increase it, symptoms of excess oestrogen can occur again! MMP's are enzymes that break down protein. They play a role in the breakdown of endometrial tissues at the end of the menstrual cycle. If they are over active, as would be the case with excess oestrogen in the body, as oestrogen stimulates their production, the result is a pathological reaction. A high level of MMP?s can lead to inflammation, spotting and/or excessive bleeding in the uterus. Progesterone inhibits them, but you are going through a transition phase which needs to settle down first. Let me know how you get on, and please tell me how your sister in law is doing too. Take care Wray
    Nov 20, 2010
    		 help with ms
    by: jase

    Hi Wray, I am female 42. I have also had a hysterectomy but still have my overies. I have been diagnosed with ms. My main symptoms are pins and needles, loss of balance, muscle weakness and now aching joints. I have been doing a lot of reading and wanted to ask your advice on progesterone cream, will using cream help or not? Thanks Jase.
    Nov 22, 2010
    		 Progesterone level low...?
    by: Anonymous

    Hi, I'm 20 and I've been trying to fall pregnant for 6 months (I haven't ever used any form of contraceptives). I'm pretty sure I've had 1 (or maybe more) chemical pregnancies. Recently my hair has been falling ALOT. With the reading I've done so far it looks like my progesterone levels are low. I'm not too sure about that, but with the information I've checked it seems the only conclusion. For almost a year now my appetite is... well, practically non-existent. I started forcing myself to eat 3 meals a day, so now I'm hoping this helps in conceiving/sustaining a pregnancy. Any ideas..?
    Nov 24, 2010
    		 help with ms
    by: Wray

    Hi Jase A few studies have been done with progesterone and MS, with a few more planned, see here, and here. Research has found a dramatic decrease in the MS relapse rate during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, with a rebound increase in the 3 months after birth. Progesterone rises sharply in the third trimester, but drops sharply after birth. The incidence of MS increases prior to menstruation, progesterone drops at this point, leaving oestrogen as the dominant hormone. MS is a disease caused by injury to the oligodendroglial cells resulting in demyelination. This impairs the conduction of signals in the affected nerves, causing impairment in sensation, movement, cognition etc. Oligodendrocytes produce progesterone, which increases myelination, myelin is the protective sheath surrounding nerves. The injury occurs due to excess glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter. Glutamate removal is defective in MS white matter, possibly due to tumour necrosis factor activity. TNF is a pro-inflammatory cytokine, progesterone reduces levels of TNF by activating the Th2 response. Many studies have found a direct link to a lack of vitamin D in MS. Please have a test done, most of us have far too low a level. For more info please see here. Please see these papers here, here and here. Low vitamin D levels reduce the benefit of progesterone. Please consider taking 2000mg/day N-acetyl cysteine too, this also protects against glutamate damage. You will probably need between 200-400mg/day progesterone, it would be trial and error to get the right amount. Take care Wray
    Nov 25, 2010
    		 Progesterone level low...?
    by: Wray

    Hi there Early miscarriages are possible. I'm sure many women have them without realising they were in fact pregnant. If this is the case, progesterone could help, please see our page on Pregnancy. It could be you also need antioxidants, in particular vitamin D, please see the Vitamin D council website for more info. A lack of vitamin D reduces the benefits of progesterone, and can cause pregnancy problems. A lack of appetite is often caused by a lack of zinc, please consider taking about 15-30mg/day. Are you eating enough of the good fats? Olive oil, butter, coconut oil and flax oil. A lack of fat in the diet causes conception problems. A lack of B vitamins can cause problems too, please make sure you are getting enough. Although you don't have PCOS, please read this page too. It gives advice on antioxidants to take to help the ovaries. Take care Wray
    Nov 28, 2010
    		 question
    by: Laura

    Hi Wray, I'm 51 and going thru perimenopause. My main symptoms are horrible anxiety attacks, shaking, trembling, and insomnia. My doctor says it is all hormonal, but just wants me to take a antidepressant, which made the anxiety worse. The doc tested my hormones and said all in normal range, but I am at my wits end. Do you think progesterone would help? any other ideas? Thank you so much
    Dec 02, 2010
    		 Confused by the posts!
    by: Anonymous

    So - I bought what I thought was natural progesterine cream; but have not used it. Decided to do some more research... now I found on this site loads of postings that say not to touch the stuff but also links to it? I have tons of cysts in my breasts which are getting worse & worse, very very painful periods - more fybroids in my uterus... I have heavy bleeding (but I'm regular)... I'm 40. This all started when I was 12. I have little to no exposure to pesticides... that's not the issue - all of this was there at 12. On the pill for a while & it was better ... off for many years (20+) and the cysts have recently gotten REALLY bad. Painful throughout the month. So... what now? Not the cream? Do the cream? Is there a center in NYC area I can go to??? Help please.
    Dec 04, 2010
    		 Allergic to Progestertone (it's been 6 years and I've finally figured out... I have Autoimmune progesterone dermatitis
    by: Anonymous

    Before a woman menstruates, she produces more progesterone. Correct? When a human lactates, she is also producing progesterone. Cows lactate and are often given progesterone to produce milk.

    Thoughts?
    Dec 05, 2010
    		 question
    by: Wray

    Hi Laura It sounds like excess oestrogen and too little progesterone to me, in fact typical Peri-menopause! Please read through this page, it'll give you some idea of what to do. Unfortunately tests are helpful to a certain extent, but the critical thing to look for is the ratio of the two hormones, which is often overlooked. They could both be in the 'normal' range, but if oestrogen is at the high end and progesterone at the low end, all hell breaks loose. The ratio range can be from 200 to 2000, but I've found to feel well the ratio should be 600:1 and over, progesterone to oestrogen. We have Saliva Tests done regularly, you might like to look at them. How an AD could help a hormonal problem beats me, as you said it made you worse. We do have a page on Anxiety, please read through it. There is a list of nutrients which all help anxiety, progesterone of course is an anxiolytic, see here,and here. I generally recommend 100-200mg/day, dependant on symptoms. But before you consider using it, please see our page on Oestrogen Dominance first. This often happens and is disconcerting if it does. Take care Wray
    Dec 05, 2010
    		 HRT and menstration
    by: Kathleen

    I have been on the lowest level possible of HRT for sixteen years after five years of major depression/suicidality. I had skipped one period when I went on HRT, had a uterine biopsy to rule out cancer, and my hormone levels were measured which showed almost no estrogen/progesterone and testosterone production. I stablized after around four months on HRT. I began choosing to not menstruate every month three years ago. I did not take the medroprogesterone this past cycle and yet I am having a normal period. This is the first time this has happened. What could have stimulated this? Thank you for your help.
    Dec 07, 2010
    		 new phase in my life
    by: Amy

    Hi Wray, I am 50 yrs and I was diagnosed with Bppv last June. I am also going through perimenopose as I am having very irregular periods. Sometimes light and for three days and sometimes heavy and for eight days. Now I am having it every three months. I feel dizzy and my head feels wavy during the day especially when I am tired or sleepy. Is this due to the after effect of my BPPV or is it because of my hormonal changes? I take fish oil tablets everyday and multi vitamins once a week. I also take soy milk everyday for breakfast. Is this good and does it help me maintain my hormones balance?
    Dec 07, 2010
    		 Confused by the posts!
    by: Wray

    Hi there I'm puzzled you say you've found loads of postings saying not to use progesterone. On the contrary we do advocate it's use, you'll see in many of the postings how women have responded to it favourable. It's excellent for fibrocystic breasts, see here and our pagehere. It's also helpful in Fibroids, please read through our page on this. It does help heavy bleeding, but the amount generally has to be high to overcome it, certainly if severe. I recommend 100-200mg/day, dependant on symptoms. As you have both breast cysts and fibroids this indicates your oestrogen level is too high. You might experience Oestrogen Dominance when first using the progesterone. Please be aware of this, as it's very disconcerting if it occurs. I suggest rubbing the cream directly on your breasts. Please have a vitamin D test done, for more info see the Vitamin D council website. A lack of vitamin D reduces the benefits of progesterone and causes inflammatory conditions. Both fibrocystic breasts and fibroids are a result of oxidative stress, which leads to inflammation. Take care Wray
    Dec 10, 2010
    		 Allergic to Progestertone
    by: Wray

    Hi there If you would give me your symptoms I could help further, but I don't believe such a thing as APD exists. For a very simple reason, we make great quantities of progesterone during pregnancy, over 400mg/day in the third trimester. The occurrence of this so called disorder would therefore be far, far higher than it is. But it's extremely rare. It always occurs in the few days before we bleed. Progesterone increases from ovulation, peaking mid luteal phase, then the few days prior to bleeding it starts dropping sharply, please see the Graph we have. It's this drop which which causes all the major symptoms many women suffer from, including the dermatitis. The ratio of progesterone to oestrogen becomes skewed during these few days, with oestrogen dominating. One study says "The patient... had recurrent cyclic lesions on the skin... that appeared just before regular menstruation and persisted until a few days after." Ironically the anti-oestrogen drug tamoxifen was given to suppress it. Another study mentions "a significant premenstrual flare of skin lesions", but in this case it was caused by oestrogen, which makes a great deal of sense. The paper ends by stating "Women can become sensitized to their own estrogens; the major clue is worsening of the skin problem premenstrually" Again the drug used to suppress it was tamoxifen, see here, here and here. Another study suggests "the possible impact of estrogen mimetics, in the environment and in food... is associated with mast cell activation" Progesterone inhibits mast cell secretion, see here. When any mammal lactates progesterone is low, having dropped sharply after birth when the placenta comes away. This drop causes the hormone prolactin to rise, prolactin is the hormone of lactogenesis. The high level of progesterone during pregnancy suppresses prolactin production. Take care Wray
    Dec 10, 2010
    		 new phase in my life
    by: Wray

    Hi Amy You probably know more about BPPV than I do! Drugs, a few manoeuvres and as a final resort surgery, are the options for alleviating it. But I am familiar with dizziness during peri-menopause, having experienced it myself. In this the cause is excess fluid build up in the ear, brought on by excess oestrogen. Oestrogen causes water retention, progesterone is an excellent diuretic. So it would be worth considering, I recommend 100-200mg/day, dependant on symptoms. If you do decide to try it, rub cream under your ears, and on your neck each time you feel the dizziness coming on. I can't say if it will help you if you have BPPV, it certainly helped me with peri-menopause dizziness. Omega 3 is excellent and the vitamins, although these should be taken daily, but do avoid the soy milk. Soy is oestrogenic, it also contains phytates which bind to minerals making them insoluble. Plus it contains goitrogens which slow the thyroid down. Finally it contains trypsin inhibitors which interfere with protein digestion, see here. As you're in P-M, please see our page on Peri-menopause. If you do consider using progesterone, please read this page on Oestrogen Dominance first. Take care Wray
    Dec 10, 2010
    		 HRT and menstration
    by: Wray

    Hi Kathleen I'm afraid I have no idea. Normally the progestin is taken to prevent further build up in the uterus, ie it opposes oestrogen. Then when you stop taking it, the drop causes bleeding. And yet you hadn't taken any this cycle. It's highly unlikely after all those years taking HRT that you are making any progesterone. This would also cause you to bleed if the level had dropped. It's a pity they gave you HRT for the depression, there are so many nutrients which help. We do have a page on Anxiety, please read through it for more info. It's far more likely your progesterone level was too low, this is excellent for depression. I must admit to some concern you've been on HRT so long, please read through this page we have. Progesterone has none of the adverse effects that oestrogen has, please consider using it. For more info please see our page on Peri-menopause. You could of course be in menopause now, I don't know your age. If so please see this page we have on Menopause. The oestrogen in the HRT is building the lining of your uterus each month, if you are in menopause this is entirely unnecessary. Take care Wray
    Dec 19, 2010
    		 Progesterone Cream Question
    by: Anonymous

    I don't feel I've been ovulating for a long time, for the past 4 months, I've been lightly bleeding off and on, with a few heavy episodes and clots. No real defined period.

    Can I make this stop by starting Progesterone cream? (my history is saliva test have shown several times I'm low in progesterone and high in estrogen), I'm 32.

    If so, how much Progesterone cream do I use? I have the Emerita ProGest brand, so it is not wild yam.

    Thanks...
    Dec 29, 2010
    		 Other Diseases
    by: Anonymous

    Can progesterone cream help with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Type 1 Diabetes, and Fibromyalgia? I'm post-menopausal.
    Dec 29, 2010
    		 Symptoms
    by: Anonymous

    For the last 16 months, I have been documenting my symptoms. Excema breakouts on arms, hands, lips, eyelids, forehead, nose. Trouble breathing, bronchitis. These symptoms occur 7 - 10 days before my period. As soon as my period stops.. My skin is clear again and I feel better.
    Jan 01, 2011
    		 depression
    by: Anonymous

    I have tried a progesterone cream several times from a well known producer of the cream. Each time I have tried the cream within 2 days I am crying and trouble concentrating. I know because of symptoms that I have to be low in progesterone but don't know what to do. I am 39 years old. Could you please give me some advice?
    Jan 07, 2011
    		 Progesterone Cream Question
    by: Wray

    Hi there Progesterone can help regulate the cycle. I recommend 100-200mg/day progesterone, dependant on symptoms. If you have high oestrogen levels, please read this page we have on Oestrogen Dominance. This can occur and is disconcerting if it does. Progesterone should be used at ovulation, but as you say you have no defined cycle, I suggest you opt for 28 days, as this is the average. Your own cycle should assert itself after a few months, possibly sooner. Assuming you do this, you would start using the cream on day 15 and use it for 14 days, when you should bleed within a day or two. If you choose to go by my recommended amount, you would need to use between 6-12ml of the Emerita cream per day. For more info please see How to use progesterone cream. Take care Wray
    Jan 07, 2011
    		 Other Diseases
    by: Wray

    Hi there If you have all these problems I believe you are extremely short of vitamin D. There is strong evidence that a lack of vitamin D is a cause of Type 1 diabetes, see here, here, here, here and here. That a lack is a cause of RA and musculoskeletal pain, see here, here, here, here and here. This excellent newsletter is worth reading, please scroll down about half way to find vitamin D and fibromyalgia. There is evidence there is a lack of progesterone in RA too, see here and here. Oestrogen is a known initiator of inflammation, progesterone is an anti-inflammatory and suppresses any excess oestrogen, to my mind it's worth trying. Particularly as enzymes known as MMP's, which destroy connective tissue, are high in RA. Oestrogen stimulates MMP's, whereas progesterone suppresses these too, see here and here. Please consider a vitamin D test, interestingly a lack of vitamin D reduces the benefits of progesterone. For more info on vitamin D see the Vitamin D council website and Menopause for info on progesterone. I recommend 100-200mg/day. Take care Wray
    Jan 07, 2011
    		 Symptoms
    by: Wray

    Hi there Thanks for taking the time to record your symptoms, it makes it much easier for me. There's no question to my mind that they are due to excess oestrogen, and a lack of progesterone during your luteal phase. Possibly you are peri-menopausal? If so please see our page on Peri-menopause. Progesterone should peak ±7 days before we bleed, it could be you're not ovulating, or your corpus luteum is not making sufficient progesterone, or you are making excess oestrogen. Any one of these would result in these symptoms. Progesterone normally drops ±1 to 3 days prior to bleeding, so does oestrogen. But if there is a lack of progesterone to counter the oestrogen severe symptoms can occur. At the beginning of bleeding both hormones have dropped to their lowest level. Progesterone is helpful with lung problems, it's a vasodilator and also dilates the bronchioles, see here and here. To my mind it's worth trying, I recommend 100-200mg/day. If you are not in peri-menopause, please see our page on How to use progesterone cream. Please consider a vitamin D test too, a lack of this can lead to lung and skin problems, plus a lack reduces the benefits of progesterone. See the Vitamin D council website for more info. Take care Wray
    Jan 08, 2011
    		 depression
    by: Wray

    Hi there You should have been warned about Oestrogen Dominance This can, and often does occur, for more info please read through this page. It's essential to use enough progesterone, I recommend 100-200mg/day, dependant on symptoms. It would appear you are probably using the 20-40mg/day normally recommended? Here's more info on How to use progesterone cream. Progesterone begins dropping from about age 35, as we start getting anovulatory cycles. These increase in frequency during Peri-menopause, until Menopause, when we stop ovulating entirely. Unfortunately oestrogen is still made at the same rate, this only drops at menopause. It's essential to make progesterone the dominant hormone. If a high level of oestrogen is present, a much larger amount of progesterone is needed to achieve this. Take care Wray
    Jan 11, 2011
    		 Heavy Period
    by: Anonymous

    Hi Wray, I am 50 years and I think I am going through perimenopause. My periods are getting irregular for the past year. Sometimes longer, sometimes lighter and the time between them fluctuates. This time my period came after 50 days from the last one and to my biggest shock it is very heavy. First time in my life. I am having big clots of blood discharge and have to change pads every hour or two. I am freaking out and worried what is going on. Is this normal in the peri menopause? In my last visit to my Gyno about 10 months ago all my tests came back normal. what should I do? Thank you.
    Jan 15, 2011
    		 Heavy Period
    by: Wray

    Hi there Don't worry! It is normal, periods can come earlier or later, are either very light or flooding with clots. Peri-menopause is such a difficult time for many of us, this happened to me too. Can be embarrassing at times. Please read through the page I've given you, it explains what's happening and what to do about it. I found progesterone a godsend, but if you should consider it, please use enough. I recommend 100-200mg/day, particularly during P-M, and to use it daily, during a period too. It's impossible to follow a cycle now. It can't help regulate the cycle, as it can in pre-menopause, but it does help the heavy bleeding and any other symptoms you might have. If you do consider using it please read the page we have on Oestrogen Dominance first, this can occur and is disconcerting if it does. Take care Wray
    Jan 19, 2011
    		 Symptoms
    by: Anonymous

    Hi Wray!

    Thank you for your help with my symptoms and asking me to take vitamin D. I know for sure Vitamin D gives me the kick I need each day. Tomorrow I find out about my hormone testing.

    I am one in a million.. I'll be in touch.

    A
    Jan 20, 2011
    		 Symptoms
    by: Wray

    Hi there A Pleased you know about vitamin D, it's so essential. And I would like to hear what your results are. Take care Wray
    Jan 23, 2011
    		 Pcos/endo - Ivf and high oestrogen
    by: Cbt98

    Hello, I have started my 3rd cycle of Ivf and after being on primolet for 6 months and starting on lucrin my estrogen has increased instead of dropped. Do u have any advice?
    Jan 24, 2011
    		 Low Progesterone and High Testosterone
    by: Michelle

    Wray-

    I am blown away by your knowledge. I am desperate for information and I hope you are able to help me as you have so generously enlightened the others in this forum..

    Basically a year and a half ago I started bleeding every 6-10 days. My 'periods' were significantly heavier and longer than they had ever been. This irregular pattern lasted a little less than year. I am regulated now however I recently went for blood work and my testosterone levels are elevated and my progesterone is low. My estrogen was 'perfect' according to my holistic doctor but I thought if my progesterone was low than I am technically in estrogen dominance??

    Anyway, I am just trying to get some clarity on my situation. I have recently noticed abnormal hair growth on my chin and besides all of that I just would like to get my hormones back on track so that I may have the hope one day to conceive. I am 25 and hope that is still possible. My doctor has recommended Chastree berry or wild yam cream for Progesterone, Peony and Licorice for testosterone and D3 because I also had low Vit D levels.

    Are we missing anything? Is there anything I should omit or include in my diet to help my situation? From what I read above, no foods contains progesterone but is there anything that will help bring me back to hormone homeostasis?

    Thank you!
    Jan 25, 2011
    		 Pcos/endo - Ivf and high oestrogen
    by: Wray

    Hi there Lucrin is a gonodotrophin releasing hormone, designed to stimulate FSH and LH. A high level stimulates ovulation, presumably this is why you've been given it. By doing so it should reduce oestrogen levels, not increase them. Primolut N contains norethisterone (also known as norethindrone), see here and here. It contains a very high dose at 5mg/day, some only contain 0.35mg/dose. Both these drugs are treating the symptom, ie anovulation, not the cause. PCOS is primarily caused by oxidative stress which causes inflammation, often it's nothing more than a lack of vitamin D. Endometriosis is another inflammatory disorder caused by oxidative stress. Please have a vitamin D test done, most of us have too low a level, even those living in sunny climates. We spend too long indoors, and when outside cover up and apply Sunscreen. For more info please see the Vitamin D council website. Also this video on pregnancy and vitamin D here. We also have a Pregnancy page, please read through it for more info. Take care Wray
    Jan 25, 2011
    		 Low Progesterone and High Testosterone
    by: Wray

    Hi Michelle Thanks for the kind words! I take it they've checked for PCOS? This presents with low progesterone, and higher than normal testosterone. There is something disturbing your ovaries, not necessarily full blown PCOS, but maybe slight oxidative stress. Often this is nothing more than a lack of vitamin D, please take sufficient. For more info please see the Vitamin D council website. I would agree with you, low progesterone and normal oestrogen means the ratio is not correct. From Saliva Tests we run, we've found the ratio of progesterone to oestrogen should be 600:1 and over. The hair on your chin is indicative of excess androgens. Often these rise because of higher than normal insulin levels, please see our page on Insulin Resistance. Chasteberry has been used for menstrual irregularities, it can also reduce prolactin levels, which in turn can cause luteal phase dysfunction, with subsequent problems in embryo implantation. But because it has a mild oestrogenic action, levels of 17 beta-oestradiol can increase, see here, here, here, here, here and here. Paeony appears to have antioxidant, antiplatelet and antithrombotic effects, but I can find no evidence it reduces testosterone. But licorice can, see here, here and here. Wild yam contains no progesterone, and we cannot convert it either. The body uses cholesterol for progesterone production, it can't use a plant sterol. If you do decide to try progesterone, please use sufficient, about 100-200mg/day. But please see our page on Oestrogen Dominance first. Take care Wray
    Jan 27, 2011
    		 continual bleeding/ progesterone?
    by: Lynn

    Hello,
    I have a couple questions and wondered if you may know what to do.

    My daughter is 26 and can not seem to become pregnant. She has always had very irregular periods and was put on a birth control pill at about 17 yrs old for cystic acne and to regulate her cycles. Each time she went off the pill her periods stopped and her acne began. She took two shots of Accutane which helped but was too worrisome to continue. Eventually she began to have slight continual bleeding each day that never stopped. She went back on the pill. About two years ago she stopped taking the pill. Her period did not resumed. She tried the Chaste-berry pill and it did start her period but then the bleeding continued each day without end. She stopped the Chaste-berry pill. The slight bleeding continues on.

    She and her husband would like so much to have a child. At this point she has times of very slight bleeding each day (just a light brown) and times when it gets a little heavier for a few days then may stop completely for a day and then continues. This has been going on for almost a year.

    My daughter weighed about 93-95 lbs up until about a year ago and now has been able to gain some weight ans is up to about 109 (at 5'3'') I'd think that would have helped in some way. Her acne is very slight now.

    A natueropathic doctor, said she is low in progesterone and had her start taking yam pills. She determined this with some kind of test where she pulled on her fingers. She also said that the regular one-a-day vitamins really do nothing much at all.

    Do you think these yam pills could help some? What would you suggest she should do to regulate her hormones? How do you even test for that? With continual bleeding is there a way to become pregnant?

    I'm sorry this is so long. Thank you.
    Jan 27, 2011
    		 Conception/ Progesterone?
    by: Lynn

    Dear Wray, I am so sorry but my computer sent your reply to junk mail and when I went to read it vanished??? Is there any way you can resent that to me? My address is [note from webmaster... sorry Lynn we don't publish email addresses as it increases spam. I'm sure Wray will respond].

    I was waiting for it to come and I'm so disappointed.

    Thank you
    Jan 29, 2011
    		 continual bleeding/ progesterone?
    by: Wray

    Hi Lynn Unfortunately the pill only regulates periods by forcing all women into a 28 day cycle. But these can range from 21 to 35 days, moreover it's not a true period, but breakthrough bleeding. It will not cure the problem, as is so evident when she stops it. Please see our page on Contraceptives for more info. Acne is caused by high androgen levels, have these been checked? This and the irregular periods makes me suspect PCOS, or possibly cystic ovaries. Has this been checked? Please read through this page to see if she has any other symptoms indicative of PCOS. And please have a vitamin D test done, vitamin A blocks the action of vitamin D, see here, here and here. MMP's are enzymes that break down protein. They play a role in the breakdown of endometrial tissues at the end of the menstrual cycle. If they are over active the result is a pathological reaction such as inflammation. This can lead to spotting or continual, sometimes excessive bleeding in the uterus. Oestrogen stimulates MMP's. If there's an excess of oestrogen in the body it will continually stimulate more lining. Progesterone suppresses MMP's, see here and here. It's only when progesterone levels drop at the end of the cycle that the MMP?s can get to work and break down the lining causing our monthly bleed. But if progesterone is low due to anovulation, spotting and/or bleeding can continue. Yam pills will do nothing to help, we cannot convert a plant sterol into progesterone. The body can only use cholesterol to do this. The conversion of a plant sterol into progesterone has to be done in a lab. Saliva tests are the most accurate, please see ZRT Labs. You should ask for progesterone, oestrogen and testosterone levels, plus FSH and LH levels too. For more info on How to use progesterone cream please read through this page. I recommend 100-200mg/day dependant on symptoms. I feel your daughter could do with the higher level to begin with, reducing slowly until the optimum is found. Take care Wray
    Jan 29, 2011
    		 Progesterone does cause breast tenderness
    by: Anonymous

    Hello,
    It is a well known fact that progesterone causes breast tenderness, much more than estrogen. What is your opinion of Maca for HRT? Is Maca a phytoestrogen or phytoprogesterone?
    Feb 01, 2011
    		 Progesterone Therapy while breast feeding
    by: Leni

    I am 39 years old and since age 12 have lived a PCOS nightmare. I have boughts of not menstrating for months and then practically bleeding to death. Every doctor I have ever seen has wanted to put me on birth control or provera (which I hated), sometimes in desperation after prolonged bleeding I would give in and take whatever they recommended just to get a break from bleeding. About four years ago I started taking natural suppliments and was finally able to control my menstration and after ten years of infertility was able to concieve a child.

    I had breastfed my baby for nine months and then finally started menstrating. The problems is that four weeks have passed and I am still bleeding. I got my progesterone cream out and used it a couple of days (the bleeding stopped) and then realized it had a warning not to use while pregnant or breast feeding. All of my other suppliments say the same thing. A call to my doctor just confirmed she wants me to go on the pill to regulate things. I just can't make myself go down that road again. Do you have any suggestions? I am just not quite ready to give up breastfeeding, but the bleeding is quite heavy.
    Feb 03, 2011
    		 continual bleeding/ progesterone?
    by: Lynn

    Thank you Wray for your information. My daughter has not been checked for any levels of androgen or anything else. The few doctors she has gone to simply give her a pap test and say they see nothing wrong. They said she probably doesn't have PCOS because she is thin. Have you ever heard of someone with PCOS who has had children? She will need to see a good doctor. I wonder if you could tell me if you would choose an MD or a DO type of doctor? Are osteopathic doctors just as well trained?

    Thank you so much (again)
    Lynn
    Feb 04, 2011
    		 Progesterone does cause breast tenderness
    by: Wray

    Hi there I think the 'well known fact' is due to ignorance spread by forums on the web. Progesterone itself doesn't cause sore breasts (mastalgia or mastodynia). It's only if insufficient is used that it appears to be the reason behind them. Low amounts of progesterone stimulate oestrogen, and as most women use too low a level they believe it's the progesterone causing it. Oestrogen is an excitatory hormone, it causes breast proliferation, see here, it's a known initiator of inflammation, see here and it causes water retention. All these factors play a role in causing painful and/or fibrocystic breasts. Studies show excess oestrogen, and low progesterone are the cause, see here, here, here, here, here and here. In fact you'll see from the first paper that a 2.5% progesterone cream reduced the pain. Maca contains the same sterols used to manufacture progesterone, ie campesterol, stigmasterol, and beta-sitosterol. These cannot be converted to progesterone by the body and are not phytoestrogens. Phytoprogesterones don't exist. Maca does increase oestrogen levels, although as yet, no one knows why. It has been found to increase sexual activity, correct erectile dysfunction in experimental animals and a few human trials and alleviate menopausal symptoms. See here, here, here, here and here. Take care Wray
    Feb 07, 2011
    		 Progesterone Therapy while breast feeding
    by: Wray

    Hi Leni The ignorance surrounding PCOS is extraordinary. And yet there are many studies showing nutrients are effective for it, as you'll see on the link I've given you. I'm happy you found this out for yourself and now have a child. Ironic that a natural substance like progesterone has a warning, and yet your doctor wants you to go on a synthetic version which has many adverse side effects. I've helped many women who've used progesterone throughout their entire pregnancy, and beyond. I now have photos of their babies. Not only is it safe for both mother and child, but essential for a successful Pregnancy. As Dr Dalton says, using supplemental progesterone won't harm the child while breast feeding. We also have many women who have used it to calm down a restless baby, by rubbing a pin head amount on their feet. Progesterone is excellent for stopping excessive bleeding, and/or spotting. MMPs are enzymes that break down protein. They play a role in the breakdown of endometrial tissues at the end of the menstrual cycle. If they are over active the result is a pathological reaction such as inflammation. This can lead to spotting or continual, sometimes excessive bleeding in the uterus. Oestrogen stimulates MMPs. If there's an excess of oestrogen in the body it will continually stimulate more lining. Progesterone suppresses MMPs. It?s only when progesterone levels drop at the end of the cycle that the MMP?s can get to work and break down the lining causing our monthly bleed. But if progesterone is low due to anovulation, spotting and/or bleeding can continue. See here and here. I've found from 400-600mg/day progesterone is needed to stop the bleeding, reducing slowly once it's under control. For more info please see our page on How to use progesterone cream, and our page on Oestrogen Dominance Take care Wray
    Feb 07, 2011
    		 continual bleeding/ progesterone?
    by: Wray

    Hi Lynn Only about 50% of women with PCOS are obese, the rest are not affected. Being underweight can lead to problems with falling pregnant, because if cholesterol falls too low our hormones can't be made. Many women with PCOS have fallen pregnant, it's a question of sorting out the oxidative stress and getting the ovaries working again with antioxidants. A pap test only shows if cervical hyperplasia or cancer is present, it won't show if the ovaries are working. It could be she is just too underweight, and her cholesterol level is too low. Is she eating sufficient fat, as this has a bearing too, see here and here. Please try to get those hormones checked that I mentioned, cholesterol too. And the vitamin D test, this is so important. The symptoms she has indicate PCOS. I can't recommend a specific doctor, I wish I could. Many MD's are familiar with PCOS and progesterone, many are not, or don't believe progesterone is needed, and prescribe the pill as you've found. A naturopathic doctor would probably be more suited, as osteopaths are doctors who receive further training in the musculoskeletal system, rather than the endocrine system. Take care Wray
    Feb 16, 2011
    		 infertility
    by: Anonymous

    I was reading on one of the comments that your progesterone cream should be applied the area needed to help treat a symptom. I am trying to get pregnant and have had two miscarriages. Where do I apply the cream to help with fertility?
    Feb 19, 2011
    		 infertility
    by: Wray

    Hi there Rubbing the cream on a particular area is only really related to aches and pains, burns too, it appears to work quicker. So for miscarriages it can be rubbed anywhere, it travels within minutes around the body. We do have a page on Pregnancy, please read through this, as it gives info on how to use progesterone before and during pregnancy. Take care Wray
    Feb 25, 2011
    		 What about for Bipolar?
    by: Anonymous

    Will progesterone help with bipolar disorder? My daughter has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. 2 years ago, she was diagnosed first with major depressive disorder and psychosis. She was treated with an anti-depressant, and she recovered after a couple of months. Since then, she's had 2 separate episodes of mania with psychosis followed by depression where she's low and slow. She's sensitive to stress and is always anxious. Her tummy is always big, probably due to high cortisol. She had her first period at 11 y.o., and it seems like it slowly started then. She's never had a regular period since it started, sometimes she would have 2 in a month. Her symptoms seem to peak just before and during her period. Yesterday, her urologist mentioned that she may have low progesterone and that's why she gets UTI frequently. This spurred me on to research about low progesterone and I found your site. It's been so helpful so far. I wanna even get my levels tested. Well, I hope you can tell me that progesterone treatment would help my daughter. I've always thought that her disorder has something to do with some sort of hormonal imbalance.
    Feb 27, 2011
    		 menopausal symptoms and huge breasts, help
    by: Yvonne

    I'm sure I must have a hormone imbalance. I'm 51 and my periods have become irregular. I have pms the whole time and I'm sluggish and feel dull. My breasts have grown 2 inches in just a few months (45 inches today) and they are painful all the time. My waist is 42 and my hips are 43, so I look like a barrel. Help help help! I wondered if being overweight (I'm 13 stone) has made my body have too much oestrogen? I remember vaguely being told when I was in my 20s and having difficulty getting pregnant that I was very low in progesterone and high in oestrogen. I did get pregnant eventually and have never felt so well during and for the few years immediately after giving birth.

    I was wondering: if I lose weight will this help balance my hormones? Will it maybe reduce oestrogen so my breasts stop growing? Please help, I'm so miserable
    Mar 01, 2011
    		 What about for Bipolar?
    by: Wray

    Hi there It's interesting her urologist mentioned low progesterone. It does appear to increase the parasiticide activity of the leukocytes, see here. Here's another on the influence of hormones and parasites. There is evidence the menstrual cycle effects bipolar disorder, see here. The fact symptoms peak just before and after her period is to me a give away, plus you say it seemed to have started slowly since her first period. Puberty is a very difficult time for many, with hormones fluctuating continually. It would help to have her age now, but irregular periods are as normal as regular ones during this phase. I put my daughter on progesterone at 14, I had depression during puberty and didn't want her to get it. She used it daily, as her cycle was irregular, it didn't settle down until she was 18, when she began using the cream following her cycle. I now know progesterone can be used to regulate a cycle. She's now 29 and still using it. I take it your daughter has been checked for PCOS, as this also causes irregular cycles. The page also gives a list of nutrients which help the ovaries. If she should consider progesterone, I recommend 100-200mg/day. As she has no cycle to follow, it's best to use it daily for a few months, and then get a cycle going. For more info please see our page on How to use progesterone cream. There are also many nutrients which help or reverse bipolar disorder. Often it's caused by nothing more than a lack of these, puberty puts huge demands on the body, see here. The immune system is effected by a lack of anti-oxidants, the most important being vitamin D, please could she have a test done. A lack also upsets the ovaries, plus reduces the benefits of progesterone. For more info see the Vitamin D council and GrassrootsHealth websites. Another important nutrient for the immune system is the amino acid taurine, see here and here. Take care Wray
    Mar 11, 2011
    		 Menopause and lost libido
    by: Anonymous

    My partner had a hysterectomy 2 years ago due to cervical cancer that had moved to her uterus. She has been on HRT Vivelle Dot .0375 since then and has absolutely NO desire to have any relations at all. If I mention it she feels remorse about it but there is still no interest. Is there a possibility that there needs to be a change in her HRT? Maybe some testosterone added or progesterone? Sex is not the most important thing in the world to me however everyone likes to have it occasionally.

    I myself have issues that maybe you can help with (a 2 parter) Epileptic and peri menopausal. I am told because I take 2 different medications for the Epilepsy I cannot take hormones to correct the horrible symptoms. They vary from month to month and are never the same. Menstruation is never the same time, as it used to be. I have even considered the possibility that this was Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome, since it started after I had that done. It's hard to deal with and I'm sure my partner and family don't care for it much either. I have tried Chaste berry and 5HTP and they did not help. Any suggestions?
    Mar 20, 2011
    		 Future of Progesterone Crea
    by: Leni

    I just watched a segment on the news about how the FDA has, decided that only one lone company (I forget the name) will be producing the progesterone needed to prevent miscarriage. It said that it will be illegal for any other companies to produce progesterone treatment. The report said that progesterone injections will go from $10 to $1,500 a treatment. Scary! I had to have progesterone injections for the first 12 weeks of my pregnancy. Will this new situation cause any problems for Natpro and natural progesterone creams?
    Mar 23, 2011
    		 Menopause and lost libido
    by: Wray

    Hi there I can't believe your partner is on the oestrogen patch, after having a hyst due to Cancer. Please also see our page on HRT to see why I'm concerned. There is evidence progesterone increases libido, but testosterone is not what any woman needs, see here, here, here here, here, here, here and here. Stress and oestrogen drop dopamine levels, this neurotransmitter is needed for sexual arousal, see here,here, here, here and here. The precursor amino acid to dopamine is tyrosine, she could try this. Start low at 500mg/day and increase gradually. If she should consider progesterone, please ask her to read our page on Menopause. But before doing so, please read the page we have on Oestrogen Dominance. This can occur, specially if oestrogen levels are high, which hers will be. I'm running out of space, so will answer your other query below. Take care Wray
    Mar 23, 2011
    		 Menopause and lost libido
    by: Wray

    Hi again If your symptoms coincided with the Tubal ligation, I wouldn't hesitate to agree with you. Peri-menopause itself is a very difficult time anyway, with erratic cycles, flooding or spotting. I don't know why you have seizures, or when they occur. But a drop in progesterone levels can cause them, and a lack of vitamin D too. Please see these papers on progesterone and epilepsy here,
    here, and here. And these papers on vitamin D and epilepsy here, here, here,
    here, here and here. Unfortunately seizure meds also reduce vitamin D levels, please have a test done. For more info see the Vitamin D council and GrassrootsHealth websites. Chaste berry has oestrogenic properties, so I never recommend it. I prefer tryptophan to 5HTP, I find it works far better. We do have info on it on our Anxiety web page. Take care Wray
    Mar 23, 2011
    		 Future of Progesterone Cream
    by: Wray

    Hi Leni Thanks for your concern! I find the whole incident shocking. Although I would never endorse 17P, the injection in question, compounding pharmacists have been making it for years, now they can no longer do so. Muscle power from the pharmaceutical companies, which puts individuals out of business. There is so much confusion between progesterone and progestins, the term progesterone is often used interchangeably. 17P or 17OHP-C or it's full name 17 hydroxyprogesterone caproate is synthetic. This can cause miscarriages and still births. Ironic isn't it, giving an injection which is supposed to prevent pre-term births, and yet it causes miscarriages! As you had no difficulties with your pregnancy, I imagine you must have been given real progesterone injections. Another irony for me is to have to use the word 'real' progesterone. It's like having to call fresh milk from a cow 'raw' milk. As opposed to the poison 'milk' that comes from a carton, full of growth hormones and damaged beyond recognition by homogenising and pasteurising it. Progesterone rises during pregnancy, and with it a metabolite called 17Hydroxyprogesterone or 17OHP. This is made by the placenta and the adrenal glands. 17OHP-C is a twisted version of the natural metabolite. It doesn't appear to have any androgenising effects, as do the other progestins, but why use it? 17OHP-C does appear to reduce pre-term births, but only by ±33-36%. It has undesirable side effects too, the most common are injection site pain (35%), injection site swelling (17%), urticaria (12%), pruritus (8%), injection site pruritus (6%), nausea (6%), contusion (6%), injection site nodule (4%), and vomiting (3%), see here. Why not use 'real' progesterone, see here. According to Makena's website here, they are making "this vital medication even more available and affordable to women across the country". From $10 to $1,500 'more' affordable?! See here too. I don't think this development will effect progesterone creams, particularly as most health professionals believe it doesn't work! Take care Wray
    Mar 27, 2011
    		 total hysterectomy
    by: Zenaida

    Hi Wray, was reading all your posts and others and would ask you for your advise I had a history with chocolate cyst one ovary removed years ago and last week the second one after this chocolate cyst ruptured as well had now total hysterectomy with this remarks from the hospital:

    PT REFERED TO SURGERY BY GYNE DUE TO FOLLOWING FINDINGS 5X4 CMS CYSTIC AND SEPTATED MASS AT R OVARY WAS ADHERENT TO SMALL BOWEL. ADHESIOLYSIS WAS DOSE. HEMOSTASIS SECURED.
    now I will need hormone therapy I am 40 years old but would want to go most natural on that could you please suggest what I should use combined with a proper diet.I am living in the Philippines I ordered already Flax seeds ,take vitamin C 4000mg day now after OP,2000IU D3,B complete,800IU vitamin E want to add now 15-30mg zinc but don't know what I should right away start with in terms of hormones estrogen,Progesterone and testosterone want to start soonest so the effects I might suffer through sudden loss of hormone production.
    Mar 29, 2011
    		 Will progesterone increase mamary gland while breastfeeding?
    by: dalailana

    Dear Wray, I am a breastfeeding mother and have very low milk supply because of PCOS and insufficient breast tissue . My breasts didn't grow during pregnancy. I was wondering if by taking progesterone i will increase my breast tissue and in this way increase supply. I was also wondering if there is a connection between feenugreek and progesterone as they say feenugreek increases breast tissue. Thank you.
    Mar 29, 2011
    		 total hysterectomy
    by: Wray

    Hi Zenaida All the supplements you're taking are good, but please increase the vitamin D to 5000iu's. This is the minimum the vitamin D authorities recommend. Please have a test done too, cysts are the result of oxidative stress which leads to inflammation. I believe you are short of vitamin D. The minimum blood level should be 50ng/ml, better still if it's in the 70-100ng/ml range. For more info please see the Vitamin D council and GrassrootsHealth websites. I don't recommend either testosterone or oestrogen, only progesterone. For more info on how to use it now, please see our page on Menopause. The other two hormones come with adverse side effects. For more info on oestrogen please see our page on HRT. And for info on testosterone, please see these papers here, here, here, here here, here, here, here, here and here. If you should consider using progesterone, please see our page on Oestrogen Dominance first. Take care Wray
    Mar 29, 2011
    		 Will progesterone increase mamary gland while breastfeeding?
    by: Wray

    Hi Dalailana Progesterone regulates the lobular-alveolar development of the breast in pregnancy, in preparation for milk secretion, see here. I've no idea if using supplemental progesterone will help, as you are no longer pregnant. I suspect it won't. But it doesn't adversely effect milk supply, and if you feel your progesterone is low, it might be an idea to use it. If you do I would really love to know how you fare, so that I can advise others with similar problems. You are not pregnant, but in case you fall pregnant again you might like to read our page on Pregnancy, and this page here, which explains the role progesterone plays after pregnancy. We do have a page on PCOS too. This is caused by oxidative stress. Please have a vitamin D test done, a lack of this vitamin causes oxidative stress, prevents ovulation and reduces the benefits of progesterone. For more info please see the Vitamin D council and GrassrootsHealth websites. The PCOS page explains how to use progesterone, but if you should consider using it please see our page on Oestrogen Dominance first. Fenugreek has galactogogue properties, so has Coleus amboinicus and milk thistle, see here, here, here and here. Fenugreek contains the sterol diosgenin, from which progesterone is synthesised. Take care Wray
    Mar 29, 2011
    		 total hysterctomy
    by: Zenaida

    Thank you Wray. What about plant oestrogene through diet would that help to balance my hormones and help easing the surgical menopause effects such as Flax seeds plus small amounts of tofu and some others I read about plus using progesterone cream.
    Mar 30, 2011
    		 Will progesterone increase mamary gland while breastfeeding?
    by: Wray

    Hi Dalailana Progesterone regulates the lobular-alveolar development of the breast in pregnancy, in preparation for milk secretion, see here. I've no idea if using supplemental progesterone will help, as you are no longer pregnant. I suspect it won't. But it doesn't adversely effect milk supply, and if you feel your progesterone is low, it might be an idea to use it. If you do I would really love to know how you fare, so that I can advise others with similar problems. You are not pregnant, but in case you fall pregnant again you might like to read our page on Pregnancy, and this page here, which explains the role progesterone plays after pregnancy. We do have a page on PCOS too. This is caused by oxidative stress. Please have a vitamin D test done, a lack of this vitamin causes oxidative stress, prevents ovulation and reduces the benefits of progesterone. For more info please see the Vitamin D council and GrassrootsHealth websites. The PCOS page explains how to use progesterone, but if you should consider using it please see our page on Oestrogen Dominance first. Fenugreek has galactogogue properties, so has Coleus amboinicus and milk thistle, see here, here, here and here. Fenugreek contains the sterol diosgenin, from which progesterone is synthesised. Take care Wray
    Mar 30, 2011
    		 fenugreek
    by: dalailana

    Thank you Wray, I will try fenugreek and then turn to progesterone.
    Apr 05, 2011
    		 Natural Progesterone Cream
    by: Cristina

    I recently used a natural progesterone cream and I had some mild side affects with dry mouth, a little off balance, very tired. It also states on the cream that it MAY cause cancer in the state of California. Any comments or advice on this? Thank you.
    Apr 06, 2011
    		 confused menopausal
    by: Anonymous

    Hi Wray, I am 51 and 4 months. I have found reading these comments and your responses interesting but confusing. So many articles recommend the increased consumption of foods which have oestrogenic properties to help relieve the symptoms of menopause particularly hot flushes and night sweats which I suffer from intensely since I thought my periods stopped 15 months ago.Previous to that my periods were very heavy and painful and irregular for several years with no more than a few months between each. A scan revealed I had fibroids years ago.Surprisingly I have just experienced a very heavy, painful period lasting 6 days. I do not take contraceptives and I wondered if I fell pregnant and have miscarried. I did not suffer from any hot flushes or night sweats 3 weeks before I had this period which I now presume is because my progesterone levels increased.The night sweats and flushes are now returning again. The progesterone questionnaire revealed a score of 36. I would also like to add that I started taking flaxseed and soya capsules 6 weeks ago. I would value your views on the above?
    Apr 11, 2011
    		 Irregular periods and PCOS
    by: soumya

    Hi Wray, In december 2010, i had an ectopic and was treated by methroxenate only. I did not had surgery. After that i had spotting till feb 2011. After that my gyne prescribed Hyponidd and M2 tone tablets for 1 month. Till now i did not have my period. Now i have been prescride to have primolute- n for 3 days 2 tablets/day. Is this correct? i am tensed as i am trying for a baby. Please advise
    Apr 13, 2011
    		 fenugreek
    by: Wray

    Hi Dalailana Do let me know if you think the fenugreek works. Take care Wray
    Apr 13, 2011
    		 Natural Progesterone Cream
    by: Wray

    Hi Christina The dry mouth, tiredness etc is a sign of Oestrogen Dominance. Eyes can become dry too. It appears you were using too little. I recommend 100-200mg/day, dependant on symptoms. Please try increasing the amount you are using, too little merely exacerbates the adverse effects of oestrogen. For more info please see our page on How to use progesterone cream. California does have this warning, why I have no idea! Progesterone is used successfully for many cancers, please see our page on Cancer and progesterone. Take care Wray
    Apr 13, 2011
    		 hello....?
    by: Yvonne

    Hello, I posted on Feb 27th but haven't had a reply, just wondering why...? Please, someone, help
    Apr 18, 2011
    		 confused menopausal
    by: Wray

    Hi there It's generally recommended to wait a full year with no periods before declaring ones self in Menopause. So bleeding 15 months later is unusual. Over that time the lining can build up with the small amount of oestrogen we still make. Normally it's absorbed back into the body, but if progesterone levels drop suddenly bleeding can occur. The drop could be caused by stress, as this drops levels. It's possible you had a miscarriage, but most unusual. The years of very heavy, painful periods are unfortunately very common in Peri-menopause. Progesterone is excellent at stopping heavy bleeding, plus it's an excellent analgesic too. I always suggest rubbing the cream over painful areas. Both progesterone and oestrogen drop prior to bleeding. If the ratio of the two becomes skewed, ie more oestrogen than progesterone, pain and many other adverse symptoms can occur. This is of course common during peri-menopause. I don't believe any of us need more oestrogen, whether from plants, or natural and synthetic supplements. Principally because we have too much already, there are over 100 oestrogen mimics on the planet now, up 100% since I first read about them in 1998. This is one of the first papers written on the subject, see here. For more info please see the website Our Stolen Future. Flaxseeds do have oestrogenic properties, but do have other benefits too. Unlike soya, for which I can find no benefit, although there are studies suggesting some. But many others suggesting otherwise. I prefer to err on the side of caution. For more info please see here. Your score warrants trying progesterone, but if you do please read this page on Oestrogen Dominance first, as this can occur. Please use sufficient too, I recommend 100-200mg/day, dependant on symptoms. Progesterone does help hot flushes, but I've found 400mg/day is needed initially to reduce or stop them completely. The amount can then be reduced slowly till the optimum is found. Take care Wray
    Apr 18, 2011
    		 Irregular periods and PCOS
    by: Wray

    Hi Soumya PCOS is caused by oxidative stress. Why doctors give drugs I don't understand. One of the most important antioxidants to combat the oxidative stress is vitamin D, please have a test done. For more info please see the Vitamin D council and GrassrootsHealth websites. Please watch this excellent video on pregnancy and vitamin D here. We also have a web page on Pregnancy, please take a look through it too. I do not agree with giving Primolut, it's a synthetic progestin, certainly not needed, as it suppresses progesterone production. In all cases of ectopic pregnancy, progesterone is low, see here, here, here and here. Take care Wray
    Apr 18, 2011
    		 menopausal symptoms and huge breasts, help
    by: Wray

    Hi Yvonne I'm so sorry I missed your query. You do appear to have an imbalance in hormones, excess testosterone is also to blame. Women often make an excess of this in Peri-menopause and Menopause. These pages will explain how to use progesterone if you should wish to try it. Please read our page on Oestrogen Dominance first as this can occur. Testosterone can be suppressed by progesterone too, it's something to aim for as testosterone is not something a woman needs too much of, see here, here, here, here, here here, here, here, here, here and here. I'm running out of space, so will start a new comment below. Take care Wray
    Apr 18, 2011
    		 menopausal symptoms and huge breasts, help
    by: Wray

    Progesterone also helps painful breasts, see here, here, here, here, here and here. Sore breasts can be caused by lack of iodine, see here, here, here and here. An easy way to find out if your level is low, get a tincture of iodine. Put 3 drops anywhere on your inner arm, rubbing them in with the dropper. If the patch fades in a few hours it means you are short. Continue applying it until the patch takes days to fade. Alternatively have a blood test. Please have a vitamin D test done, a lack of this causes weight gain. For more info see the Vitamin D council and GrassrootsHealth websites. Take care Wray
    Apr 18, 2011
    		 confused menopausal
    by: Anonymous

    many thanks for your reply Wray and I will endeavour to try progesterone cream and more organic products. It is unbelievable the amount of chemicals in everyday products and foods which have hormonal changing properties. It is horrifying to think that all those synthetic hormones and preperties from medicines are still potent in our drinking water. I will be using a water filter from now on.Thanks again for enlightening me.
    Apr 20, 2011
    		 thank you
    by: Yvonne

    thank you for replying. I have ordered some progesterone cream and vit D capsules.
    Apr 29, 2011
    		 thank you
    by: Wray

    Hi Yvonne I do hope they both help you. Take care Wray
    Apr 30, 2011
    		 Missing period
    by: Anonymous

    I recently went off BC pills after being on them for 7 years, and have not had my period in 11 months. My doctor said I am just going through the first half of my menstrual cycle every month and I should take progesterone to complete the full cycle every month. I am hesitant to go back on any artificial hormones. Does anyone know of any foods or more organic ways to produce progesterone? Thank You for any feedback/ help.
    May 09, 2011
    		 Missing period
    by: Wray

    Hi there All Contraceptives have the potential to cause adverse side effects. It can take some time before the cycle begins again. If your doctor means progesterone, then I would agree with him, but if synthetic hormones, I would not. If you should consider trying progesterone, there's more info on our page How to use progesterone. And please read this page on Oestrogen Dominance too. Your cycle has been upset by the pill, the best way to get this working again is with progesterone itself, there are no foods which help produce more. Although Agnus castus has been used for many problems which women suffer from, PMS, mastalgia, menstrual irregularities, fibrocystic breasts, increasing lactation and more. It can also reduce prolactin levels, which in turn can cause luteal phase dysfunction. But because it has a mild oestrogenic action, levels of 17 beta-oestradiol can increase. Agnus castus doesn't contain progesterone, see here, here, here, here, here and here. You might consider having a vitamin D test done, a lack of this can prevent ovulation. For more info please see the Vitamin D council and GrassrootsHealth websites. Take care Wray
    May 13, 2011
    		 What to do
    by: Anonymous

    Hi to all,
    My first day of last period was 21 of March. I am pregnant for sure, but on May 2 I had drops of blood. Again on the 7th I had blood. I am still pregnant but the level of hormones going up and down. Ultrasound shows the pregnancy time week and a half less. It has been 3 days that every morning I have a little bit bleeding but not clear blood. It is abit with clots. I don't know what to do? Doctors tought that it is miscarriage, but according to ultrasound baby is still there.

    Thanks
    May 16, 2011
    		 Can you help me please? :(
    by: Denise

    Hi Wray, I've just started looking up tonight about Oestrogen Dominancy and Perimenopause and I've learned so much this evening than I have from years at my doctors.

    Since I came off the birth control pill in 2005 I have had irregular periods, the longest I would go without would be 3 months but I would feel very uncomfortable, severe bloating, water retention, weight gain, breast tenderness, increased appetite which lead to me to snack on junk food for weeks on end, depression, acne, muscular ache and a general feeling of un-comfortability.

    I went to my doctor first in 2006 and he sent me for blood tests, after 3 months of having no period, I got them at the hospital and all my blood tests came back fine. Then it started again and my doctor said it was due to anaemia and I put it to the back of my mind and my periods continued to be irregular. But in the last year it has gotten more frequent, in 7 months I have had 2 periods, my last being 11 weeks ago.

    I went for a thyroid, iron, hormone blood test and my thyroid, iron levels came back normal but my doctor said my hormone levels were not accurate as I got my blood test when I wasn't menstruating and insisted I go back for another test when I get my periods. In the meantime I am getting hot flushes, can't sleep, gained weight, really sore breasts.

    Yesterday I went to the health store and got dandelion tea for water retention, milk thistle to cleanse my liver, vitamin B6 supplement and Evening Primrose oil (which i read tonight is bad as its' full of Oestrogen so I'll discontinue taking)

    Im going for an ultrasound next week of my pelvic area to see if I have polycistic ovaries, but reading online tonight I think may be Oestrogen dominant or worse still, in perimenopause!

    Please help me, I've just turned 30 and have no kids, I'm at my whits end because I am afraid I'll get shunned again by my doctor and he'll say "your just not ovulating" again. If I am oestrogen dominant it can lead to much more serious complications for me, and if I'm in perimenopause it won't show up in any test/scan.

    I really really need your help, what do you advise for me to do? I'm a lacto vegetarian and didn't drink caffeine in over a year,I don't eat eggs, I don't use fluoride toothpaste and try to use organic foods where I can.

    Sincerely yours

    Denise
    May 17, 2011
    		 bleeding for 2 weeks
    by: Yvonne

    Hello again Wray, I started using progesterone cream on day 14 of my cycle (which is irregular now anyway as I'm 51). However after 7 days I started bleeding and have continued bleeding ever since even though I stopped using the cream. I am quite disappointed as while I was using the cream I felt brilliant. My breasts stopped hurting and even seemed to get smaller, my mood stabilised and I felt as I used to feel when I was younger. What should I do? I am scared to use the cream again in case the bleeding gets worse. Normally my periods only last for 3 days so this is really unusual and must be related to the cream. Do you think it means I have enough progesterone in my body without it?

    Sorry to keep asking all these questions. I did go to my GP but she wouldn't do any tests and seemed very skeptical of what I was saying (I live in the UK and there's a limit to what we get on the NHS).
    May 23, 2011
    		 What to do
    by: Wray

    Hi there It's very difficult for me to help you. Bleeding does indicate progesterone is too low, or dropping. Please see our page on Pregnancy for more info. This page explains pregnancy and the role progesterone plays. Take care Wray
    May 23, 2011
    		 Can you help me please? :(
    by: Wray

    Hi Denise It seems more likely that you either lack vitamin D or you have PCOS, you're very young to be in Peri-menopause. Unless your mother had a very early Menopause, maybe you can ask her. It's quite a reliable means of finding out when you will go into menopause. P-M starts 5 to 10 years before menopause. Although your symptoms appear to be peri-menopausal, they only mean excess oestrogen is circulating. Can you remember whether your cycles were irregular before you went on the pill? This would be further indication that it's PCOS, there is a list of symptoms on the page I've given you. Have a look through them to get a better idea of whether you do have it. The last thing you should do is have your tests done while menstruating! Both your oestrogen and progesterone will be at their lowest. The test should always be done mid luteal phase, this is when progesterone peaks. The peak shows if you've ovulated or not, as it's only after ovulation that progesterone rises. The luteal phase lasts 12-14 days, and it always occurs prior to bleeding, ie from ovulation to menstruation. Please have a vitamin D test done, a lack of this vital nutrient stops ovulation. For more info see the Vitamin D council and GrassrootsHealth websites. If you do have PCOS, the page I've given you explains how to reverse it, plus the role progesterone plays. If you don't, please see our page on How to use progesterone cream. Another test you could have is to check your parathyroid levels. If this is high it effects ovulation, it also means vitamin D is low, see here. As you're a vegetarian it could be your taurine is too low, it's not found in veggies, only animal protein. Although we can convert it from cysteine which is in veggies, some authorities believe in insufficient quantities for our needs. Taurine is an osmolyte, vital for calcium homeostasis, see above paper plus this one here. Incidentally all Contraceptives can play havoc with our bodies, while on them and when stopping them. Take care Wray
    May 23, 2011
    		 bleeding for 2 weeks
    by: Wray

    Hi Yvonne I'm pleased the progesterone helped you. It can upset the cycle when first using it. This is explained on our Peri-menopause page. Please read through it again. I'm not sure why you started using the cream on day 14, as nowhere do I recommend this. If the cycle is regular it should be started at ovulation, this can vary amongst women from day 7 to day 21, depending on the length of the cycle. You say your cycle is irregular now, therefore I suggest you ignore it, as it's now impossible to follow, and use the progesterone daily. The bleeding won't get worse, in fact progesterone stops bleeding, including heavy, continual bleeding. MMPs are enzymes that break down protein. They play a role in the breakdown of endometrial tissues at the end of the menstrual cycle. If they are over active the result is a pathological reaction such as inflammation. This can lead to spotting or continual, sometimes excessive bleeding in the uterus. Oestrogen stimulates MMPs. If there's an excess of oestrogen in the body it will continually stimulate more lining. Progesterone suppresses MMPs and oestrogen. It?s only when progesterone levels drop at the end of the cycle that the MMP?s can get to work and break down the lining causing our monthly bleed. But if progesterone is low due to anovulation or a drop in levels from other causes, spotting and/or bleeding can continue. You are now in P-M, when levels of oestrogen are high compared to progesterone, hence the bleeding. I'm not sure how much you were using, but I do recommend 100-200mg/day. Although I have found higher levels are needed to stop bleeding, depending on how severe it is. Sometimes as high as 400-600mg/day is needed. So please start using the cream again, at the amounts I recommend, and don't take a break. If you find you start bleeding again when you do start it, please increase the amount till it stops. Take care Wray
    May 23, 2011
    		 Synthetic hormones plus drugs
    by: Wray

    Hi Cbt98 I can never understand why women are given synthetic hormones plus drugs, instead of progesterone and nutrients. Both PCOS and Endometriosis are inflammatory disorders. Both caused by oxidative stress. Often it's nothing more than a lack of vitamin D, please have a test done. Most of us are very short of it, it's vital for ovulation, vital too for a growing foetus, see here, here, here and here. This is an excellent video to watch too, see here. We also have a page on Pregnancy, which explains how to use progesterone if you should wish to try it. It would be essential to reverse the PCOS and the endo too before trying to fall pregnant. Evidently your doctors don't believe this.................
    May 27, 2011
    		 don't know whats wrong with me for missing my period!!!
    by: Anonymous

    Hello Wray, I am 23 years old. I had an abortion in aug 2009. That's my first pregnancy. and I didn't get periods for 4 months. Then i got a loop by a gyn because my endometic layer size is very thin. I used some pills of premarin-0.625mg and sustain-200 for 4 months. Now I am getting periods for 36 days cycle. I am continuing my loop now also. I am planning to remove my loop in aug 2012. Is there any problem by continuing this loop for the next year also. I am planning to get pregnant in the next year itself. Suggest me, there is any problem to get pregnant and in my health as well as my child's health. Is there any food to improve my health and periods cycle? I didn't get my period in this month. Its already 50 days. i think you can understand my problem and give better suggestion for me. I am eating flaxseeds and carrots regularly (from this week). Is there any other food to regularize my cycle naturally?
    May 31, 2011
    		 don't know whats wrong with me for missing my period!!!
    by: Wray

    Hi there I don't know what kind of loop you've been given, but often they are impregnated with a progestin. Although I'm puzzled by them giving it to you, as it will keep your endometrium thin if it does contain a progestin. If you want to get Pregnant within the next year, the loop will prevent this, as it's designed to stop pregnancy. If you've been given Susten I imagine you must live in India? If so then your problem is probably low vitamin D, please have a test done. A lack of vitamin D prevents ovulation, plus it's critical for a successful pregnancy and for foetal growth, see here, here, here and here. If you're interested in what foods to eat, please see our page on Nutrition. Take care Wray
    Jun 24, 2011
    		 Ovulation
    by: Anonymous

    I've been reading your posts and wanted advise on my own situation. I'm 27 and for the past 4-6 months have had the same issues, sharp stabbing pain during ovulation, muscle tenderness in my abdomen, weak muscles-if I stand too quickly I?ll pull the muscles in my stomach, light headed and dizzy for two days, then from ovulation until menstruation I have a nonstop Migraine! My hair has become thin and brittle, even balding in some spots. I was never on BC in my teen years, had my first child 9 years ago, since then I have tried BC but never for long periods of time, I always feel like crap when I?m on them so I?ve decided to stop taking them. I use the ?counting? method for BC now, as I have regular 28 day periods and can predict ovulation to within a day. I?ve already been to the Dr, several in fact, and none of them seem to want to help. As soon as I say I?m not on BC, that is the solution they give me! I refuse to take BC and have now been told if I won?t take that the only solution they will entertain is surgery. I know there has to be a natural way to correct this imbalance, I?d like more advise on what to eat and not eat as I?m not a fan of any medication/cream/etc. Any advice would be wonderful as the headaches are starting to become more than I can handle!
    Jun 26, 2011
    		 PCOS & Graves Disease are they linked to low progesterone?
    by: Angela

    WOW, what a helpful site :)

    I was diagnosed with PCOS when I was 30 and then when I became 40 I was diagnosed with Graves Disease (the good thing about that was I was finally able to loose weight, the bad news was it all went back on when I started medication!). Since my diagnosis and commencement of medication (Neo-mercazol)for the hyperthyroidism I constantly suffer extreme mood swings, dips in energy, mental confusion and extreme emotional imbalances (think Jekyll & Hyde!) and all this gets worse around menstruation time. I have just stopped the medication as my thyroid hormones have returned to 'normal' - I'm now 42 and although determined to take responsibility for balancing my mind, body and spirit, I am really struggling - are my 2 diagnoses connected, and if so, would natural progesterone cream be good for me and/or is this just the peri-menopause stage of life?
    Jun 28, 2011
    		 Ovulation
    by: Wray

    Hi there All drug based Contraceptives can cause adverse side effects, I'm pleased you don't take them. Dr Dalton found women with low progesterone levels always reacted badly to them, because they drop progesterone levels. The pain during ovulation is called Mittelschmerz, German for 'middle pain'. It occurs in about 20% of women and although unpleasant is nothing to be concerned about, see here. The muscle weakness could be either a lack of progesterone, it's excellent for myopathy, or a lack of vitamin D. As they both work together it might be an idea to try both, but you say you don't like using creams etc. Both are excellent for migraines, see here, here, here, here and here for progesterone. And here, here and here for vitamin D. Both help hair growth too. The following are nutrients which help hair growth, 5000iu's/day vitamin D, 2000mg/day N-actyl cysteine, 2000mg/day inositol, 2-3mg biotin and 100mg thiamine (B1). Please check your iron levels, and there is some evidence the amino acid lysine is beneficial too, see here. I'm running out of space so will start a new comment below. Take care Wray
    Jun 28, 2011
    		 Ovulation
    by: Wray

    Hi there Vitamin D is vital for the anagen phase of hair growth, see here, here and here. Please consider having a test done, for more info see the Vitamin D council and GrassrootsHealth websites. If you should consider progesterone, I've found 100-200mg/day is needed, sometimes more if symptoms are severe. There is more info on our page How to use progesterone cream. But please read our page on Oestrogen Dominance first. We do have a page on Nutrition. There are links to three excellent eating options, I follow the Paleo Diet, with raw food thrown in too. Feel very good on it. Take care Wray
    Jun 28, 2011
    		 PCOS & Graves Disease are they linked to low progesterone?
    by: Wray

    Hi Angela Thanks for the kind words! We do have a page on PCOS, it's an inflammatory disorder. Progesterone is essential, but often a lack of vitamin D is behind it. A lack of vitamin D is behind autoimmune diseases too, please have a test done. For more info see the Vitamin D Council and GrassrootsHealth websites. If you do have a low level, the minimum dose is 5000iu's/day, and the blood level should be 70-100ng/ml, and not the 30ng/ml which is the cut off the labs and doctors use. Interestingly, all the autoimmune diseases I've looked into have low progesterone levels too. Your symptoms sound hectic! I'm happy you've managed to stop the meds. You could well be in the beginning stages of Peri-menopause, which is a hectic time in itself. This page gives info on how to use progesterone, which really saved my sanity going through it! I hope you will consider using it too. I recommend 100-200mg/day progesterone, dependant on symptoms. The more severe they are, the more is needed. But before you do, please see our page on Oestrogen Dominance first, as this can occur. You might like to see these comments from other users who had bad symptoms, see here and here. Take care Wray
    Jul 03, 2011
    		 Re PCOS & Graves Disease
    by: Angela

    Hi Wray, Thanks for your reply, advice and relevant articles you sent me. They have helped me understand what's going on within my body and how I can improve the conditions I have without having to revert to medication, which I am loathe to do. I have already started on Vitamin D, which, living in Norway I am definitely deficient in, and I am already feeling better, definitely feel more calmer, sleeping better and actually waking up with some energy instead of feeling more tired than before I went to sleep, that's a first for about 20 years!

    I have just ordered your progesterone cream so fingers crossed it goes through Norwegian customs without any problems - they are very strict here. Please keep up the good work, I am sure you are a God-send to all us hormonal women out there :)
    Jul 04, 2011
    		 don't know whats wrong with me for missing my period!!!
    by: Anonymous

    hello wray!!
    I am from India only.. and the loop is multi load cu loop..
    so is there any problem with this loop?? suggest me..
    Jul 07, 2011
    		 Re PCOS & Graves Disease
    by: Wray

    Hi Angela I'm so delighted the vitamin D is helping you already. It would save a huge amount of heart ache and money if everyone had regular tests, and took a supplement if they don't get enough sun. I've gathered Norway is impossible when it comes to regulations. I learnt this from a delightful woman who lives there, who is now passionate about vitamin D and progesterone. If you should wish to contact her, please do so via her website here. She's well versed in the ups and downs of using progesterone, so could help you immensely. Take care Wray
    Jul 07, 2011
    		 don't know whats wrong with me for missing my period!!!
    by: Wray

    Hi there The copper T IUD is the only Contraceptive I recommend. There shouldn't be any problem with it, as it leaks no progestin into the body, as some of the IUD's do. Missing periods can be caused by so many things, it's impossible for me to tell you what it could be. Stress stops our cycle, so does a lack of vitamin D, this is vital for normal ovarian function. Please have a test done, you live in India where low levels are rampant. For more info on testing see the Vitamin D Council and GrassrootsHealth websites. Take care Wray
    Jul 07, 2011
    		 PCOS & Graves Disease
    by: Angela

    Hi Wray, Thanks again, I would love to contact the Norwegian woman you mention, how do I find her site?

    Best regards
    Angela
    Jul 13, 2011
    		 Cows milked when pregnant?
    by: Anonymous

    Cows start milking when becoming pregnant for the first time and milking continues after they deliver. Then cows are milked twice a day throughout their lives pregnant or not (mostly not). I don't know where you got the idea that they are only milked during pregnancy.
    Jul 13, 2011
    		 Need help to maintain progesterone
    by: Ga

    I am 37 years old. I have faced 3 mis carriages in last 5 years. During my last miscarriage I have been told my progesteron was low. But GP didn't give me any details on my blood tests. I have been trying to concieve for about 1 year. Could you please suggest me how I can maintain better progesteron in my body when I conceive. It would be very helpful if you suggest me any home tests for progesteron as GP blood tests are really terrible. Is there any remedy therapy for maintaining progesteron hormone levels in body.
    Jul 15, 2011
    		 Need help to maintain progesterone
    by: Wray

    Hi Ga Miscarriages are often caused by a lack of progesterone, at least yours was tested, often it's not. We do have a page on Pregnancy which will give all the answers you're looking for. Take care Wray
    Jul 15, 2011
    		 PCOS & Graves Disease
    by: Wray

    Hi Angela Apologies, I forgot to give Nita's website to you! Please see here. Take care Wray
    Aug 03, 2011
    		 Why is the balance off?
    by: ShoelessJo

    This is a question for Wray, mainly, as you seem to be so well-versed in the chemistry. But I'm hoping the answer will benefit me and the others who read this post.

    My family are of Swiss-German descent, all tall and large-boned. The family is made up of women, mostly, (Mennonites), and there is a predisposition to Type 1 diabetes, hypothyroidism and/or goiters, repoductive cancers (breast and prostate), and heavy, awful periods. I lately have wondered if Vitamin D deficiency was a cause, but now I'm seeing also that estrogen/progesterone balance may be equally to blame.

    For many years, since just a few years after my period started, and increasingly since, I have had long, unpredictable (been tracking them for years with no perceivable pattern) extremely painfful periods, with many days of spotting before and after, or none at all. I battled depression, low energy, bloating and painful, awful smelling gas, debilitating cramps, heavy bleeding, weight fluctation, water retention, sore breasts, breast fibroids, etc. I recently had a surgery (regrettably) to remove an 11 cm collagen and fluid-filled cyst. For 2 months afterward I had predictable, wonderful periods and loads of energy, positive mood, a sense of well-being, no noxious gas episodes, easier weight moderation, reduced water-retention- i thought I had finally solved the problems! Very quickly, however, things returned to abnormal, and have been worsening ever since, albeit slowly. I've never taken any form of contraceptive, and I didn't grow up on the American diet, although my own diet has always been too high in fruit sugars. Im 34, and I'm tired of living dependent on Ibuprofen. I didn't take any at the outset of my last period, and I ended up cramping horribly for two straight days and vomitting incontrollably from the cramps. I exercise regularly (running and weights, and fun outdoor activities) but I'm neither over nor underweight. Most of my family is overweight, and I just didn't want to be. I eat lots of green things (crave them in fact), but wonder about the wisdom of taking anything that is a natural source of necessary nutrients out of the diet (like barley, lentils, beans, etc.) I did that and suffered two separate instances of tearing/popping the muscles off at the connections- I was told lack of grains can lead to poor connective tissue formation.

    I want to know if there's a way to restore balance to high estrogen, low progesterone levels without trying to up progesterone. Can I lower estrogen levels effectively enough without the creams? And why is this such a problem now, where it wasn't in the historical past to the same degree? And if not, well, where do I get the dad-gum cream. I'm not living like this the rest of my life. My whole body hurts and I'm tired. Please help- I'm so grateful you're willing to write here.
    Aug 03, 2011
    		 thank you
    by: Yvonne

    I have been following your advice with the progesterone cream and vitamin D and it has had such a dramatic effect on my health...I feel like I used to feel a decade ago and it's been miraculous. Also I don't get any mood swings like I was getting. Still getting hot flashes but that's all. I can't thank you enough
    Aug 06, 2011
    		 Why is the balance off?
    by: Wray

    Hi ShoelessJo Looking at the symptoms of your family, I would say they are all deficient in vitamin D! See these papers on diabetes here, here, here, here, here and here. Vitamin D is needed by all cells, not least the thyroid. A lack of vitamin D is found in all autoimmune diseases, see here, here and here. Dendritic cells are implicated in the initiation of autoimmune diseases, vitamin D inhibits their production, see here. Progesterone also inhibits dendritic cells, whereas oestradiol increases them, see here here. In all the autoimmune diseases I've looked at, a high level of oestrogen is observed and low progesterone. Or the ratio of the two hormones is skewed. Oxidative stress is prevalent in autoimmune diseases too, usually as a result of low vitamin D. High prolactin is implicated too. Oestrogen stimulates prolactin production too, see here. Excess prolactin suppresses dopamine, the converse is true. The precursor to dopamine is the amino acid tyrosine, if there is a lack of this amino acid or protein in the diet, dopamine drops and prolactin rises. Tyrosine is also the precursor to the two thyroid hormones T3 and T4. It's also the precursor to the two stress hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline, so demands on tyrosine are very high. Iodine is essential to the thyroid too, without it T4 and T3 cannot be made. Selenium is a vital co-factor in the production of the thyroid hormones. It's often low in soil. Fibrocystic and/or sore breasts can be due to a lack of progesterone or iodine, or both. I'm running out of space so will start a new comment below. Take care Wray
    Aug 06, 2011
    		 Why is the balance off?
    by: Wray

    Hi ShoelessJo See these papers on progesterone here, here, here, here, here and here. And these on iodine here, here, here and here. An easy way to find out if the level is low is to get a tincture of iodine. Put 3 drops anywhere on the inner arm, rubbing them in with the dropper. If the patch fades in a few hours it means there's a deficiency. Continue applying it until the patch takes days to fade. Alternatively have a blood test. Iodine and selenium are also essential to prevent cancer, see here. I can't agree about lack of grains causing poor connective tissue. We only started eating them 10,000 years ago, and it wasn't until 5000 years ago that they reached northern Europe. We don't have the ability to digest them, here, here, here, here and here. Plus they contain goitrogens, which inhibit iodine uptake. I think the problem with your connective tissue is more likely caused by a lack of the amino sugars, and probably progesterone, see here. The reason we are having all these problems now, is partly due to our diet, and partly due to the oestrogen mimics. I've run out of space again, continued below. Take care Wray
    Aug 06, 2011
    		 Why is the balance off?
    by: Wray

    Hi ShoelessJo Our diet lacks the antioxidants we need to counter the increasing toxic burden, ironically this also comes from our diet. And there are now well over 100 oestrogen mimics in our environment, see Our Stolen Future. Supplemental progesterone is the only safe way to restore levels, and suppress oestrogen. Finally oestrogen is an inflammatory hormone, progesterone a potent anti-inflammatory, see here and here. I would hope your aches and pains go if you should consider using it. I recommend 100-200mg/day, more if symptoms are severe. We have further info on our page How to use progesterone cream, but please see our page on Oestrogen Dominance before starting it. This can occur and is disconcerting if it does. You mention too much fruit sugar in your diet. Fructose, sucrose and glucose decrease sex hormone binding globulin by 80%, 50% and 40% respectively. This causes testosterone to rise, this hormone causes visceral fat to be deposited, which could account for your weight problems, see here. Please, above all, have a vitamin D test done, this is a potent anti-inflammatory, needed by every cell to function normally. A lack leads to too many things to go into here, but see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth and Birmingham Hospital websites for more info. This is an excellent video to watch too, see here. It's essential to take a minimum of 5000iu's per day, and to get your level to 70-100ng/ml, and not the 30ng/ml the labs and doctors use as a cut off point. Take care Wray
    Aug 06, 2011
    		 thank you
    by: Wray

    Hi Yvonne I'm so delighted you've been helped, and thanks so much for coming back to me about it! I'm convinced it's the combo with vitamin D which does the trick. Incidentally, if you increase the progesterone to about 400mg/day for a few days, you should find the hot flushes reduce considerably or go. Please make sure you reduce the progesterone slowly if you consider doing this. Take care Wray
    Aug 15, 2011
    		 Lack of sleep
    by: Anonymous

    Hello Wray
    I am 51 years and lately I am finding it difficult to sleep. I used to sleep like a baby but for the last year it has become more and more difficult to fall asleep. I yawn all night and turn from one side to another without sleep. I become very tired and I continue like this till the early hours of morning when I get little and shallow sleep. I didn't get my period for three months now. I feel tired all day. I do exercise and eat healthy diet. I don't smoke or drink alcohol. Could it be imbalance of hormones and perimenopause? What can I do to get good sleep every night and go back to my normal self? How long will this continue if it is imbalance of hormones? Thank you so much.
    Aug 16, 2011
    		 Trying to Concieve
    by: Katrina

    Hi Wray, you seem extremely knowledgeable and i am sorry if this question i am about to pose has already been answered. My husband and i are trying to concieve, in a roundabout way, he needs to increase his testosterone levels and i need to increase my progesterone levels.

    Briefly - what could we take either by way of diet or supplements to help this along. There are so many conflicting notions out there!
    Thanks for your time. Katrina
    Aug 16, 2011
    		 Re PCOS & Graves Disease
    by: Angela

    Hi again Wray, as suggested earlier by yourself, I have been taking vitamin D (I'm taking around 1,600 IU p/Day) and using your progesterone cream now for 1 month without a break and I feel amazing and have so much more energy but, my Doctor has just informed me that my thyroid levels have gone up again and she wants me to go back on medication.

    Could this be a result of the progesterone cream? If so, is it likely to keep raising my TSH levels (T4 has gone from 17 to 24 in 6 weeks, 19 being the new 'highest acceptable normal') or should it settle back down again?

    I am really reluctant to go back on the medication as this is the best I've ever felt, but my Doctor is threatening radiation iodine treatment next if my blood test numbers don't go down and she doesn't feel there's a need for me to have my progesterone levels checked (I'm going to see a gynaecologist soon, hoping she will be more open...but its Norway!)

    I've managed to persuade my Doctor to test my vitamin D levels but this will be a blood test, so not holding out much hope of it being reliable.
    Aug 19, 2011
    		 Lack of sleep
    by: Wray

    Hi there It seems as if you are now in Peri-menopause, possibly nearing Menopause. Our cycles become very erratic, sleep is but one problem during this phase. Progesterone does help sleep, see here. During P-M our levels are dropping, but oestrogen doesn't drop until menopause, so the ratio of the two hormones becomes unbalanced. As progesterone is very safe, I feel it's certainly worth trying. I recommend 100-200mg/day, more if symptoms are severe. But please read our page on Oestrogen Dominance before starting it. Take care Wray
    Aug 19, 2011
    		 Lack of sleep
    by: Wray

    Hi there It seems as if you are now in Peri-menopause, possibly nearing Menopause. Our cycles become very erratic, sleep is but one problem during this phase. Progesterone does help sleep, see here. During P-M our levels are dropping, but oestrogen doesn't drop until menopause, so the ratio of the two hormones becomes unbalanced. As progesterone is very safe, I feel it's certainly worth trying. I recommend 100-200mg/day, more if symptoms are severe. But please read our page on Oestrogen Dominance before starting it. Take care Wray
    Aug 19, 2011
    		 Trying to Concieve
    by: Wray

    Hi Katrina Thanks for the kind words. I'm a bit confused as to why he has to increase his testosterone levels, as this has nothing to do with fertility. If his libido is low, it's more likely his progesterone or dopamine are too low. The jury is still out on whether it's testosterone which increases libido, it seems more likely to be either progesterone or dopamine, or both. Progesterone increases dopamine levels, whereas excess oestrogen decreases it. See the following papers for progesterone here, and here, here and here. And the following for dopamine here, here,here, here, here and here. Lack of zinc can decrease fertility, a hair analysis would show if it's too low, see here. I've run out of space so will start a new comment below. Take care Wray
    Aug 19, 2011
    		 Trying to Concieve
    by: Wray

    Hi Katrina This is long but interesting on zinc, see here, and this paper too. Soy and other isoflavones should be avoided, see here. Progesterone is involved in spermatogenesis, see here. Oestrogen has a deleterious effect on sperm, see here and here. Finally we do have a page on Pregnancy which you could look through. It explains the role it plays and how to use it. Vitamin D is vital for ovulation, a successful pregnancy and the growth of the foetus. Vital for sperm too, see here. I could go on forever! But maybe you could come back to me if you require more info. It would be good if you could let me know what the problem is, as I can't see how just a lack of testosterone or progesterone can be causing problems. Take care Wray
    Aug 19, 2011
    		 Re PCOS & Graves Disease
    by: Wray

    Hi Angela Firstly I'm pleased you're having a vitamin D test done, it should be a blood test by the way. Secondly I don't think you're taking anywhere near enough, the minimum dose should be 5000iu's per day. Please increase it if you can get a higher dose in Norway. If not, Jo should be able to help you, please contact her via her website Vitamin D Links. I have found no evidence that progesterone will increase your thyroid hormone levels. But I must say I'm a bit confused by your levels, as you say TSH has gone up, but so has T4. Normally with high TSH the T4 and T3 will be low. The converse is also true, and yet you say your TSH and your T4 is high? What's your T3 like? You might like to read this from a doctor, see here. And this by another doctor, see here. I'm all for using symptoms as a diagnostic tool, all too often these are ignored, and only the tests results adhered to. You say this is the best you've ever felt, well you are doing something right, in spite of the contrariness of the test results. The web links I've given you are from the website Stop the Thyroid Madness. It's worth looking through it, very outspoken, but excellent. Please let me know what your vitamin D levels is, I don't trust the labs or doctors 'normal' levels. They use 20-30ng/ml or 50-75nmol/L, far too low. It should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L. Take care Wray
    Sep 08, 2011
    		 Re PCOS & Graves Disease
    by: Angela

    Hi Wray, finally got my test results back - my vitamin D3 level is 91nmol/L (Doctor said this is normal). For my thyroid - T3 is 4.1pmol/L, T4 is 24pmol/L & TSH is <0.03mIU/L. My Doctor has wrote to the specialist at the hospital so will have to see what they say but I am very reluctant to go back on medication or consider radiation treatment, especially when I feel so good!

    I also got them to check my progesterone and oestrogen levels. The blood test was done 9 days after the start of my period. The results were:- Progestorone = 10nmol/L, Oestrogen 273pmol/L - again the doctor said these are 'normal' results.

    Do you think my progesterone level is 'normal' or low?

    Going by all the information links you sent me I definitely come under the oestrogen dominant category and have done probably since I was a teenager.

    I'm a little confused about using the progesterone cream - should I stop just before my period is due or is it ok to just keep on using it?

    I did stop 2 days before my period last month but felt awful and instead of waiting 14 days to start it again I started using it on 6th day. If I keep taking it right through without a break would this prevent me from having a period?

    Thanking you in advance for all your valuable help and advice.
    Sep 21, 2011
    		 clutching at straws?
    by: honna

    Wow very interesting read. Any advice for me then. Here goes...
    I have had endometreosis on and off for 25 years (I'm 40) I have had IVF twice (donated eggs each time) but fell pregnant after 6 weeks of accupncture after 10 years of infertility. Years after a peaceful time of no period pains or heavy bleeding thanks to having a son, they have returned. But the usual crap is not alone this time, I have developed severe allergies to foods and other stuff within only 7 months. I have severe migraines if i take this list of triggers. The doctors think its a lack of progesterone that is causing my pains but giving me a hysterectomy will cause even more problems. I am even allergic to calcuim thats added to foods!!! So I am now thinking of Agnus Castus??!!
    Sep 25, 2011
    		 infertility
    by: Anonymous

    help
    I have gone through 2 ivf cycles and frozen cyclesand alwaya miscarried around wk 6 or 7. In all cases my progesterone has been low and was prescribed crinone gel. I have gone through ivf again and am pregnant but my progesterone levels are low so is my pregnancy hormone - i am taking crinone every night but I am afraid what happened before will happen again - the specialist is not really helpful. Any ideas anyone?

    cat74
    Oct 03, 2011
    		 Re PCOS & Graves Disease
    by: Wray

    Hi Angela So delighted you still feel good. As for your vitamin D, I knew your level would be low, and knew too that you would be told it was normal. It should be between 175-250nmol/l. I see I didn't give you papers on vitamin D and Grave's disease, see here, here (scroll to page 7), here, here and here. Your progesterone test was done at the wrong time. It should be done ±7 days after ovulation, or before bleeding, in other words at mid-luteal phase. The range is 15.9 - 63.6 nmol/L. If done during the follicular phase, as yours was, it would read low. The range for oestrogen is 110.13 - 1468.4 pmol/L, which yours falls into. But it's the ratio of progesterone to oestrogen which is critical, yours is 37:1, but pretty meaningless unless we have your mid-luteal phase results. We have found from Saliva Tests we run, that the ratio should be 600:1 and over to feel well. It's fine to use the progesterone daily. As you felt awful when stopping it, I suggest you use it daily for 2-3 months. If you feel stable enough to stop it and start following a cycle, then do so. You'll know soon enough if it's too soon. We do have more info on our page How to use progesterone cream. You can always ask me for advice too. It seems to me the progesterone plus the vitamin D are beginning to work. I would be equally reluctant to go back on medication if feeling good, but will have to leave that decision to you. Take care Wray
    Oct 03, 2011
    		 clutching at straws?
    by: Wray

    Hi Honna Endometriosis is caused by oxidative stress, and exacerbated by oestrogen. This is an inflammatory hormone, besides being a mitogen causing cells to multiply. Progesterone will suppress any excess oestrogen you might have, it also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Period pains are caused by prostaglandins, progesterone suppresses these too. It's also excellent for migraines too, see here, here, here, here and here. I have found that very high amounts of progesterone, ie 500mg/day, is needed if the endo is severe. For encouragement you might like to read these comments from users of high amounts, see here, here, here and here. Please avoid a hyst. Agnus castus has oestrogenic properties, not what I think you need. But I do believe you are short of vitamin D, please have a test done. For more info see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Vitamin D is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it's low in all inflammatory conditions, including migraines, see here, here and here. Take care Wray
    Oct 03, 2011
    		 infertility
    by: Wray

    Hi Cat74 You say you were prescribed crinone gel, but then say you're taking it every night. I assume you don't mean oral crinone? Not that I've heard of it. Crinone comes in a 4% or 8% strength, which were you prescribed? The 4% gives 45mg progesterone per application, and the 8% gives 90mg progesterone per application. Either of these amounts is far too low, unless you are using more than one application. Normally from 200-600mg per day is given after IVF. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page. Progesterone should be used a minimum of twice a day, hourly if need be. Levels drop after about 13 hours. Unfortunately with a gel, it tends to leak out if applied in the morning. I suggest you use the gel as you would a cream, rubbing it on your skin for the morning or other applications. Vaginal application is excellent though, as it travels within minutes to the uterus where it's needed. So you must continue applying it there. Crinone contains glycerin, mineral oil, polycarbophil, carbomer 934P, hydrogenated palm oil glyceride, sorbic acid, sodium hydroxide and purified water. We do have more info on other Delivery systems. I've found a cream as effective as injections or suppositories. You might like to read this comment here. Please have a vitamin D test done, it's vital for a successful pregnancy, and the growing foetus, see here, here, here, here and here. I've run out of space so will start a new comment below. Take care Wray
    Oct 03, 2011
    		 infertility
    by: Wray

    These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. For more info see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. Take care Wray
    Oct 03, 2011
    		 Thanks
    by: Cat74

    Thank you for your comments yes I was taking crinone vaginal application twice daily in the second week but unfortunately my pregnancy levels went negative so that is how it is. Yes I am vitamin d deficient I am taking 2 tablets per day used take 3 because my levels were really low I do have endo - as well but I think I really need look at what is happening inside my body before attempting another ivf process
    Oct 03, 2011
    		 Infertility
    by: Cat

    Thank you for your comments and suggestions. Unfortunately my pregnancy hormone level is negative so and not pregnant any more. Yes I was on crinone 90mg vaginal use once daily first week of implantation and second week twice daily because I asked my nurse and she said it would be ok if it relieved my worry. So now in think I need to look at what is happening in my body before I attemept another ivf cycle. I am vitamin d deficient and have been tested 4 years ago. It was very low so I had to take 3 d3 1000 iu tablets a day now I only take 2 a day. After levels were ok d by my ivf specialist. I also have endo but moderate. Also had an ectopic pregnancy with ivf at 7 wks and my right tube had to be removed. So there is a lot going on and I guess I need to find what is going wrong.
    Oct 05, 2011
    		 Dear Wray
    by: Anonymous

    Thank you very much for you facinating advice. I'm seeing my gynaecologist in ten days I feel better now I have an insight into "my hormones". My only concern is the articles about Vitamin D given to migraine sufferers and calcium. I seem to react within the hour to calcium supplements, with react I mean a full blown skull numbing migraine and I now avoid food with added calcium.
    Oct 06, 2011
    		 Infertility
    by: Wray

    Hi Cat74 I'm so sorry the miscarriage occurred, but they didn't give you enough progesterone. Please make sure you use sufficient, at least 200mg/day. And please start using the progesterone now, before you fall pregnant again. It seems to me that oxidative stress is behind it all. Endometriosis is due to this too. You say your vitamin D levels were low, so you began taking 3000iu's per day, and have now dropped to 2000iu's. Neither of these amounts will raise your levels high enough. Vitamin D specialists are saying the range should be 70-100ng/ml and not the 30ng/ml doctors and labs give as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, but if yours is very low 10,000iu's would be better. Every study done on ectopic pregnancies have found low progesterone. They believe this to be a marker, and not the cause. I believe otherwise, that low progesterone is the cause, see here, here, here and here. Take care Wray
    Oct 06, 2011
    		 Infertility
    by: Wray

    Hi Cat74 I'm so sorry the miscarriage occurred, but they didn't give you enough progesterone. Please make sure you use sufficient, at least 200mg/day. And please start using the progesterone now, before you fall pregnant again. It seems to me that oxidative stress is behind it all. Endometriosis is due to this too. You say your vitamin D levels were low, so you began taking 3000iu's per day, and have now dropped to 2000iu's. Neither of these amounts will raise your levels high enough. Vitamin D specialists are saying the range should be 70-100ng/ml and not the 30ng/ml doctors and labs give as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, but if yours is very low 10,000iu's would be better. Every study done on ectopic pregnancies have found low progesterone. They believe this to be a marker, and not the cause. I believe otherwise, that low progesterone is the cause, see here, here, here and here. Take care Wray
    Oct 07, 2011
    		 Insomnia
    by: Anonymous

    Hi Wray, thank you for your blog. I am almost 52 and recently suffering from insomnia (last six months). It is becoming very difficult to sleep. On good nights I sleep after like one hour in bed. On bad nights I dont get sleep till early mornings and after I take antihistamine drugs. This makes me very tired. I am still getting my period but it is very irregular. I've read that insomnia could be a perimenopause symptom. Will my sleep get better when my hormones balance? And how long will it take to go back to normal and get my sleep back? Thank you so much. Grace
    Oct 09, 2011
    		 Chemical Pregnancy
    by: Anna

    After my first chemical pregnancy my OB/GYN told me I likely had low progesterone levels which is the main cause. I haven't had my levels tested but plan on doing that as soon as she can get me in her office to prevent another miscarriage. She gave me a prescription for prometrium but I am 25 and have never been on birth control or any hormone therapy and do not plan on starting now. I am really wondering what other options I have to help my body produce adequate amounts of progesterone? Any ideas? Any help would be greatly appreciated?
    Thanks, Anna
    Oct 10, 2011
    		 Insomnia
    by: Wray

    Hi Grace I'm pleased the info here helped you. Insomnia can be a problem in Peri-menopause. It's a most difficult time, periods do become very erratic, emotions too. The only way to balance your hormones is by using progesterone. It's dropping during P-M, hence the many and varied symptoms women get. Oestrogen, an inflammatory and excitatory hormone, doesn't drop until the last viable egg has matured. Even after this point and we've entered Menopause, we still make oestrogen in our fat cells. But they don't make any progesterone. If you should consider using progesterone, I recommend 100-200mg/day, more if symptoms are severe. The links I've given above explain how to use it. But please read the page on Oestrogen Dominance before you try it. Progesterone does helps sleep, see here. Take care Wray
    Oct 10, 2011
    		 Insomnia
    by: Wray

    Hi Grace I'm pleased the info here helped you. Insomnia can be a problem in Peri-menopause. It's a most difficult time, periods do become very erratic, emotions too. The only way to balance your hormones is by using progesterone. It's dropping during P-M, hence the many and varied symptoms women get. Oestrogen, an inflammatory and excitatory hormone, doesn't drop until the last viable egg has matured. Even after this point and we've entered Menopause, we still make oestrogen in our fat cells. But they don't make any progesterone. If you should consider using progesterone, I recommend 100-200mg/day, more if symptoms are severe. The links I've given above explain how to use it. But please read the page on Oestrogen Dominance before you try it. Progesterone does helps sleep, see here. Take care Wray
    Oct 11, 2011
    		 Progesterone and St John's Wort
    by: Yvonne

    Hello Wray, I have been using progesterone cream now for a few months with great results. I have not had a period now for 3 months but this week I think I have ovulated. Should I take a break for a week? Also, I have decided to take St John's Wort for mild depression. Is this ok to take with the progesterone cream? I heard St John's Wort stimulates oestrogen - which I definitely do not want
    thank you so much for your help and the work you do.
    Yvonne
    Oct 13, 2011
    		 Chemical Pregnancy
    by: Wray

    Hi Anna Prometrium is progesterone, not birth control or HRT. But it's oral progesterone, which is not the best Delivery system. Most of the progesterone gets destroyed by the gut and liver. I know of no other means to get progesterone levels up high enough, except using progesterone. Although agnus castus can reduce prolactin levels if they are high, which in turn can cause luteal phase dysfunction, with subsequent problems in embryo implantation. But because it has a mild oestrogenic action, levels of 17 beta-oestradiol can increase. If prolactin levels are high both progesterone and the amino acid tyrosine are very affective at suppressing it. Agnus castus doesn't contain progesterone. Levels of 200mg/day or more of progesterone are given after IVF, to prevent miscarriages and pre-term births. We make over 400ng/ml during the first trimester. If you do consider using the prometrium, open the capsule, add it to a small amount of cold pressed oil or a natural skin cream, and rub it into your skin. You will get the full benefit of progesterone doing this. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page. You could be short of vitamin D, it's essential for ovulation, conception, a successful pregnancy and for the growth of the foetus. Please have a test done, for more info see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. And these papers here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. Take care Wray
    Oct 13, 2011
    		 Dear Wray
    by: Wray

    Hi there I seem to have missed your comment, sorry. If you react to calcium then by all means don't take it. In fact magnesium is a co-factor for vitamin D not calcium. Those papers were published 17 years ago, when calcium was all the rage. Magnesium is low in most soils, low in milk too, so it's advisable to take that. Unless of course you react to that too, in which case stick with just the vitamin D. But do get a test done to see what your level is, for more info see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. And please consider progesterone too, but make sure you use enough. Too low a level and you will get migraines. Take care Wray
    Oct 13, 2011
    		 Progesterone and St John's Wort
    by: Wray

    Hi Yvonne So pleased the progesterone is helping you. If you think you've ovulated, continue using the progesterone for 14 days, from the time of ovulation., ie during the luteal phase when it's normally made. Then if you wish to stop the progesterone, do so at the end of the 14 days, you should bleed within a day or two. But please be aware of any Oestrogen Dominance symptoms, as the drop in progesterone could cause them. If this should happen, it's evident you still have excess oestrogen. So you could battle it out, or go back on the progesterone. I'm not sure why you have had no period for 3 months, or maybe you have told me before and I've forgotten? So it could be when stopping the progesterone you still don't get one. I can't say without knowing a bit more. It's safe to use St John's Wort with progesterone, I would hope the progesterone helps too, as it's effective for Anxiety and depression. This page also lists a number of nutrients which could help too. Often it's just a lack of them which causes the depression. I subscribe to Natural Medicines Database, which has a hugely long and excellent description of all the herbs. St John's wort has no oestrogenic activity. In fact it can decrease the efficacy of contraceptives, as it breaks down progestins and oestrogen. The active constituents are hypericin, hyperforin, adhyperforin, melatonin has been found too. Bless you for the kind words! Take care Wray
    Oct 14, 2011
    		 next steps
    by: honna

    Thanks Wray, I was given calcium magnesium by an allergy nutritionist but reacted to the calcium only. She then sent chelated magnesium in replacement. Since reading your replies I have taken it upon myself to go to a health food store and I am now taking vitamin D tablets, 100 ug a day. I have also started going for a short run every evening as I understand that excercise can help an awful lot. Im going to mexico this week for a holiday and anxious about what I will eat there with my food allergies. Im seeing my gynaecologist on tuesday so we will see what he will suggest, i think he will say a laprascopy (for the 5th time!).
    Oct 16, 2011
    		 I Need help, I feel as if I dying a slow death
    by: Chara

    I an 53 yrs, I had to have a Hysterectomy in my later 20's, that's when the problems started. I start menopause at age 33. They took out my cervix's and left my ovaries. Seems like the moment I had that done my life has been a nightmare, dying a slow death everyday. Every time I complain with issues they gave me more estrogen pills over the years. Night sweats, Hot flashes, I've gained up to 253 lbs. and I've been starving myself for 25 years now and still gaining more weight every year. I've had many saliva test, so many blood test. I feel as if I haven't slept in 25 years, I've spent a fortune on doctors, test, pills, vitamins, herbs. I've done the compound drugs, HRT, etc. I just had MORE blood work done a few weeks ago for a Doctor that works with herbs and vitamins only. After getting on his program I feel HORRIBLE, worse than before. I am estrogen dominant. He put me on DHEA, and DIM (which pulls down estrogen levels, plus a few more like digestive enzymes, Cortisol Calm, my thyroid is in the bottom numbers (not working right).

    I've used the progesterone cream before (in the pumped from my health food store), actually used it for 2 weeks this month but it makes me have a scratchy throat, my hot flashes get worse, the night sweats intensify, etc. I've studied and studied and I still believe instead of taking the DIM (Which gave me the worse Migraine headache in my life and put me to bed for 3 days in pain. I surely believe if I can get my body hormones in BALANCE everything else will level itself out also. My body does not hold on to the vitamins when taken. My body is very low in zinc and everything else. My progesterone levels are about nothing when my estrogen levels are extreme. My blood work says my Cortisol is 24.7 on the test a few weeks ago which refers that level range is between 2.3-19.4. My DHEA is 62.4 when the level range is between 35.4-256.0. No matter what I do I keep gaining weight, my body doesn't seem to be quenched when I drink water and I drink 8-12 bottles a day. I'm low in all my vitamins but because my body is so far out of balance I just pee the vitamins out mostly. I'm thinking if I can get my progesterone level UP then everything else will balance itself out, am I right? Last week I stopped the DHEA, Digestive enzyme, the DIM, The Cortisol Calm, because I don't know which one is making me feel horrible.

    Is there anything you can say that can help me get a grip on my life? I don't eat breads, very little dairy, no red meat in 30 years, only chicken, seafood, lots of veggies, no oils except olive & coconut oil, no junk foods, no fast foods in over 25 years, no processed foods of any kind, no dyed foods, nothing microwaved, no frozen cook foods, nothing from a box. I don't over eat at each meal. If its not real, fresh, natural then I don't eat it. And I still gain, gain, gain. I honestly eat very little of anything so I don't gain. I stay with a bland, odd taste in my mouth for months and months now. Can you help?
    Oct 16, 2011
    		 I posted earlier
    by: Chara

    I just wanted to add that I took the test, made a 63 on it, I ordered your cream to replace the pump brand that I've used. I've read over everything and all the instructions only tell what to do when having your period, menstrual cycle, etc. As I said, I had a Hysterectomy in my 20's, now 53 years old, so when and how do I apply the cream when I have no cycle. I really hope you can reply to both my post and comments, thank you! Chara
    Oct 17, 2011
    		 Natural Progesterone doesn't work!!!
    by: Anonymous

    I'm 44 and have had saliva tests done that proved I am peri-menapuasal with low progesterone levels. I am on NO meds at all and was always generally a healthy person. I never had kids.

    I had an extensive thyroid panel done and its all normal. I also had my estradial and testosterone and adrenals all tested. I am in the low to normal range. I have tried many natural progesterone creams that are widely known and popular and even a bio-identical one from a well known and
    established compounding pharmacy. I had no improvements whatsoever on all of the progesterone creams. I still suffered with sleep issues, daily headaches, mood swings, irregular periods, what started out as light
    periods then began missing a few followed by some heavy periods and very painful cramping, and even more irregularity with periods, acne, and constant bloat. I have tried every supplement known to man that is supposed to help my symptoms and increase my progesterone levels and
    nothing has worked. Acutally they have all made my symptoms worse! I was on a low dose birth control almost my entire adult life with only a few yrs break many yrs ago. I feel I have ruined my health by doing so. I am absolutely miserable. I stopped the bc pills three yrs ago and I was sick on them but the sickest being off them since and its been three yrs since I stopped them!!

    I don't know where to turn anymore as there doesn'tt seem to be a Dr. that can help me. I'm sure I have PCOS as I have all the symptoms. Diet, exercise (I'm thin) and watching my diet have all done me no good. I even have gone as far as stopped using estrogenic products like deoderant and lotion
    and soap and shampoo. None of this has helped me. I avoid caffiene, I don't smoke, I do everything right, and still NO difference!! I beleive I am just going to have suffer for the rest of my life.....
    Oct 18, 2011
    		 how much cream to use?
    by: Yvonne

    Hi Wray, just one quick question - you say use about 100-200g of cream but I'm not sure how to measure it....could you let me know how much of a teaspoon this would be? I'm wondering if I'm not using enough as my old symtoms are returning. Thank you.
    Oct 19, 2011
    		 next steps
    by: Wray

    Hi Honna I'm pleased you're taking the vitamin D, 100mcg equals 4000iu's. This is regarded by some as adequate, although others say 5000iu's is better. But it really depends on your level, if very low I would always suggest starting on a higher dose for a month or two to get it up quickly. Please consider the test and more vitamin D. I'm not sure what the laproscopy is for, as it's a surgical technique used for a number of operations within the abdomen. I hope you enjoy your holiday, in spite of your allergies. Take care Wray
    Oct 19, 2011
    		 I Need help, I feel as if I dying a slow death
    by: Wray

    Hi Chara I can understand the problems starting after the hyst, many women are affected by it. Although some do feel a benefit. Unfortunately oestrogen does cause weight gain, it's a mitogen causing cells to divide and multiply, including fat cells. But as these are also a source of oestrogen a vicious cycle starts. Oestrogen also causes water retention, which adds to the weight, plus it's one of the causes of Insulin Resistance which you evidently have. HRT will only exacerbate your problems. DHEA should never be given to a woman, it increases testosterone levels, and with it there's an increase risk of ovarian cysts and cancer, see here, here and here. Excess testosterone in a woman is notorious at causing an increase in visceral fat, see here and here. I'm relieved you've stopped taking it. The reaction you had from the progesterone is known as Oestrogen Dominance. I can only imagine you were using far too little, I recommend 100-200mg/day, dependant on symptoms. The more severe they are the more is needed. Your diet is excellent, you might be interested in seeing our page on Nutrition to possibly pick up more tips. It appears your problem is insulin resistance, excess oestrogen and testosterone, although you don't mention tests for the last. I've run out of space so will start a new comment below. Take care Wray
    Oct 19, 2011
    		 I Need help, I feel as if I dying a slow death
    by: Wray

    Hi Chara One thing I would ask you to do is have a vitamin D test done. A lack of this causes weight gain and insulin resistance, see here, here, here, here here and here. Specialists are recommending adequate blood levels of 70-100ng/ml, and not the 30ng/ml doctors and labs regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's, more if levels are low. For more info on testing see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. I'm puzzled you say the leaflet only gives instructions for pre-menopausal women. I've just checked it and it gives ideas for menstruating women, peri or post menopausal, hysterectomy, oophorectomy, pre-pubertal, pubertal, for severe symptoms and heavy, continual bleeding. But please look at our page on Menopause for more advice. Take care Wray
    Oct 19, 2011
    		 Natural Progesterone doesn't work!!!
    by: Wray

    Hi there It appears you were using far too little progesterone, I recommend 100-200mg/day or more if symptoms are severe. All Contraceptives have the potential to cause adverse side effects, but it is possible to regain health after stopping them. You might take encouragement from this comment here. Annette was on the bcp for 15 years, and now after very high amounts of progesterone, plus vitamin D she is at last beginning to feel better. We do have a page on PCOS which might help you. Progesterone does help sleep, see here. It also helps headaches and migraines, see here, here, here, here and here. It also helps heavy bleeding. MMP's are enzymes that break down protein. They play a role in the breakdown of endometrial tissues at the end of the menstrual cycle. If they are over active, as would be the case with excess oestrogen in the body, as oestrogen stimulates their production, the result is a pathological reaction. A high level of MMP's can lead to inflammation, spotting and/or excessive bleeding in the uterus. If a low level of progesterone is present, and a high level of oestrogen, the lining will continue to grow. With a high level of MMP's the lining will also continue to break down. Progesterone suppresses both MMP's and oestrogen, see here and here. But if bleeding is heavy at least 400mg/day is needed to get it under control. If you should consider progesterone again, please read our page on Oestrogen Dominance first, as this can occur. Please consider taking 5000iu's vitmain D per day, it's low in most of us, and is vital for the normal functioning of all cells. Take care Wray
    Oct 20, 2011
    		 how much cream to use?
    by: Wray

    Hi Yvonne Symptoms can return if you inadvertently use less. Plus stress drops levels sharply, have you had more stress recently? Although it's early days, winter is approaching when less sun shines. Dark days drop progesterone levels, has it been cloudy where you live? We do have a comparison chart at the bottom of our page How to use progesterone cream. Take care Wray
    Oct 22, 2011
    		 face creams adding oestrogen?
    by: Donna

    A recent blood test showed that I have very low levels of Progesterone (Oestrogen 59 - Progesterone 1). I am turning 50 and post-menopausal, have had no adverse menopausal symptoms, except fluid retention. I'm not overweight and eat a healthy diet, low in carbohydrates.

    I've been using the Body Shop range of Wise Woman? Regenerating Night Cream for a few years now. I'm wondering whether this cream has contributed to higher levels of oestrogen and low levels of progesterone.

    My doctor has just prescribed the progesterone cream, which I am about to begin. Except for the fluid retention, which I need to eliminate, I feel great. Could this progesterone cream have negative effects?
    Oct 24, 2011
    		 face creams adding oestrogen?
    by: Wray

    Hi Donna I don't think the Body Shop cream is to blame, but Menopause. Progesterone levels begin dropping from age 35, through Peri-menopause too, until menopause when levels drop to less than 1. Oestrogen on the other hand is made by our fat cells, however few or many we might have. I'm really amazed you had no adverse symptoms with a ratio of progesterone to oestrogen of only 17:1. We've found from Saliva Tests we run that the ratio should be 600:1 and over to feel well. You must be doing something right! Progesterone when first using it stimulates oestrogen, which leads to Oestrogen Dominance. If this should occur increase the amount of progesterone to overcome the symptoms. I don't know how much he's told you to use, but I recommend 100-200mg/day, anything less and it can cause adverse symptoms. Take care Wray
    Oct 27, 2011
    		 face creams adding oestrogen?
    by: Wray

    Hi Donna I don't think the Body Shop cream is to blame, but Menopause. Progesterone levels begin dropping from age 35, through Peri-menopause too, until menopause when levels drop to less than 1. Oestrogen on the other hand is made by our fat cells, however few or many we might have. I'm really amazed you had no adverse symptoms with a ratio of progesterone to oestrogen of only 17:1. We've found from Saliva Tests we run that the ratio should be 600:1 and over to feel well. You must be doing something right! Progesterone when first using it stimulates oestrogen, which leads to Oestrogen Dominance. If this should occur increase the amount of progesterone to overcome the symptoms. I don't know how much he's told you to use, but I recommend 100-200mg/day, anything less and it can cause adverse symptoms. Take care Wray
    Oct 27, 2011
    		 4% of 1 gram
    by: Donna

    Thanks for that information Wray. I've been prescribed 1 gram of the cream with is a compound containing 4% progesterone. Is that enough?

    Also what do you mean by 600:1 - what is mine (blood count is 59 Oestrogin and 1 Progesterone)?
    Yes I feel fabulous - actually I think I've felt the best I've ever felt! Menapause seemed to last about 18 months (from my last period). The only reason I went to the doctor's was because I'm a healthy weight, eat really well (no grains, lots of fruit and vegatables, fresh meat, fish and eggs, and no sugar) but I am still carrying fluid around my body which I find uncomfortable especially when I fly.
    Oct 30, 2011
    		 Please enlighten me about hormones
    by: Raida

    So glad to come across your forum! Hello, I have Severe Anemia due to excessive menstrual bleeding. I was sent to ER, and there I was given a Lupron shot good for (3mos) to temporarily stop my period. I felt good for a few weeks, then I started hot flashes, night sweats, continuous head ache, dizziness, stomach ache after eating, forgetfulness, nervousness without apparent reason, blanking out, insomnia, at one point passing out, I could go on and on. The symptoms lasted for 2 mos. I was given a Citi scan, MRI, blood tests, mammography, abdominal scan, pap smear, attended head ache class, cardiogram, & echo stress test. Thank God that everything came back normal. The mystery is that we don't know what's wrong with me. I went to see an Acupuncturist and Chiropractor in addition to my other treatments. I even went to a Chinese Doctor that reads tongue and she diagnosed me with having very week spleen. By the way, I am 36 years old. My Dr. wants me to start taking Provera or to put contraceptive implant on me (forgot the name), I decided to switched Dr.s. I thought I was feeling better because the symptoms seems to be fading away. I finally got my period back in July, just spotting. August was a little bit more than spotting. Sept. almost back to my normal cycle, 4-6 days medium flow. Anemia is under control. Then, Oct 1st I started again with heavy bleeding that lasted 21 days. My new Dr. wants me to start taking prometrium 200mg to regulate my bleeding. I really do not like to be on this because of the reactions I got from the Lupron injection.
    I appreciate your help on this! Respectfully, Raida
    Nov 03, 2011
    		 Please enlighten me about hormones
    by: Wray

    Hi Raida At last you've found a doctor who understands what's wrong. Prometirum is progesterone, but I would advise using the cap as a vaginal pessary. Alternatively open it and add the contents to a small amount of cold pressed oil, or a natural skin cream, and rub this on your skin. Oral progesterone is the least effective Delivery system. Progesterone should be used at least twice a day, and from ovulation. There's more info on our page How to use progesterone cream. The 'mystery' of what was wrong with you is very apparent. Lupron is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist. It causes a dramatic reduction in estradiol and testosterone levels by decreasing LH and FSH. But what is not apparent to the medical profession, this would also result in a dramatic decrease in progesterone levels. The gonadotropins LH and FSH are needed to stimulate egg production and ovulation in the ovary. Without ovulation no progesterone is made, hence your list of symptoms which are all listed here. It reads like a litany of horrors, I'm sure you'll find the rest of the symptoms you don't mention. The symptoms fading away were nothing more than your body finally removing the traces of Lupron. I'm very relieved you changed doctors, as all Contraceptives have the potential to harm, not least Provera. I've run out of space so will start a new comment below. Take care Wray
    Nov 03, 2011
    		 4% of 1 gram
    by: Wray

    Hi Donna I recommend 100-200mg/day progesterone, the amount you're using is giving you about 40mg/day. Your P:E2 ratio is 17:1. But you've only just started the progesterone. Please make sure you read our page on Oestrogen Dominance. I did give you the link, as using only 40mg/day there's a probability it will occur. Progesterone is an excellent diuretic, but you would need to use more than you currently are. If you do decide to increase the amount, oestrogen dominance can occur when increasing progesterone, it's all explained on the link I've given. You do eat extremely well, this would account for how well you feel. Have you tried herbal diuretics? It might be this is all you need and not more progesterone. Take care Wray
    Nov 11, 2011
    		 Please enlighten me about hormones-Thank you Wray!
    by: Raida

    Thank you so much for responding! 3 hours after taking the 200mg Prometrium cap I got really dizzy, but it quickly went away after about an hour. From then on, I started taking it at night. I will try your suggestion for next month. About 5 days before I started with the new plan of taking the Prometrium, I started spotting, and eventually went to medium flow when I began taking my very first pill.

    Going back to what's going on with me for the past 10 days- I actually feels a little bit better than usual! Eventhough my period is getting heavier and heavier each day. It's kinda scaring me right now. I also started to see a lot of pimples around my T-Zone area. My Dr. said that I will begin to have my period after 24-48 hours of stopping the Prometrium (11th or 12th day of the month). But I am menstrating all this time while taking the pills. What will happend tomorrow when I stop taking the pill? What will the next 20 days looks like? I
    am afraid that my flow would get out of control. Please help me. Thank you!
    Nov 11, 2011
    		 Bleeding Follow-Up
    by: Raida

    Hi!
    I am inspired by you & your website to better take care of myself by being proactive with my medical issues. I started going through my medical records this morning and I found out that my progesterone level was .36 ng/ml and my estradiol was 41.8 pg/ml on Oct. 26, 2010, a week before my trip to ER. What are the normal levels? I am 36 years old.

    Like what I mentioned in my previous entry this morning, I am on Prometrium 200mg for 10 days every month. Though, my bleeding is continuous, and getting heavier and heavier each day. I get off Prometrium today, and I am flooding already.

    Thank you for everything Wray!
    Nov 14, 2011
    		 Please enlighten me about hormones-Thank you Wray!
    by: Wray

    Hi Raida Progesterone does stop heavy continual bleeding, but the amount needed is about 400mg/day, possibly more. And it must be in a form which is absorbed well. As I said oral progesterone is not. The dizziness was caused by the small amount of progesterone you are getting activating oestrogen, this is explained on our Oestrogen Dominance page. MMP's are enzymes that break down protein. They play a role in the breakdown of endometrial tissues at the end of the menstrual cycle, see here If they are over active, as would be the case with excess oestrogen in the body, as oestrogen stimulates their production, the result is a pathological reaction. A high level of MMP's can lead to inflammation, spotting and/or excessive bleeding in the uterus. If a low level of progesterone is present, and a high level of oestrogen, the lining will continue to grow. With a high level of MMP's the lining will also continue to break down. Progesterone suppresses both MMP's, see here, and oestrogen. You would normally get a period within a day or two of stopping the progesterone, it's this drop which allows the MMP's to get to work. If you continue to bleed for longer than a normal period once off the progesterone, I recommend you start using it again, but please don't take it, you're not getting enough. Please do as I suggest and either use it vaginally, or add it to a carrier oil or cream and rub this on the skin. But you will need to use 2 caps to get the amount of progesterone needed to stop the bleeding. And use this amount divided into a minimum of twice a day, more frequently would be advisable. The amino acid N-acetyl cysteine is a powerful antioxidant, which can help control the bleeding as it inhibits MMP's. Consider taking 2000mg/day. Take care Wray
    Nov 14, 2011
    		 Low Progesterone=Infertility
    by: Anonymous

    Hello: I am 26 years old and have been trying to get pregnant for the past 2 years. I have had a polyp removed from my uterus through a D&C procedure in Jan. I recently had my hormones tested and I was told that my progesterone level is at a .5, which is significantly low. I feel very informed after reading your forum, but I would like more information as to what I can do besides the progesterone cream to increase fertility. Also is there a specific brand of progesterone cream that you recommend?

    Thank you,

    N.C.
    Nov 15, 2011
    		 Bleeding Follow-Up
    by: Wray

    Hi Raida Bless you for saying that, it is essential we do look after ourselves, as the doctors are few and far between who care enough to look for alternatives to drugs. Your progesterone is exceptionally low for 36, but maybe the test was taken at the wrong time? It should be done mid-luteal phase when progesterone peaks. If done any other time it's meaningless, particularly if in the follicular phase when it should be low. Can you check on this? As the luteal phase lasts 12-14 days, supplemental progesterone should be used for the duration too. And not for 10 days. In other words it should be used from ovulation to bleeding. Take care Wray
    Nov 15, 2011
    		 Making egg follicles grow
    by: Lynn

    My daughter has gone through six month of fertility treatments with no pregnancy. Her eggs are not getting the estrogen to grow. Clomid did seem to work but still there was no pregnancy. She is stopping the treatment for now and we are wondering if there is any natural way to cause her brain to send the signal to produce estrogen. She is thin (about 108) and has PCOS. The doctor told here she is very polycyctic. Also her progesterone level was very low and so at a certain time each month she took a vaginal type of progesterone.
    Nov 17, 2011
    		 Making egg follicles grow
    by: Wray

    Hi Lynn Her eggs are growing all right, but instead of ovulating they are forming cysts. Oxidative stress is behind this, plus unbalanced hormones and a lack of antioxidants. It is possible to reverse PCOS. Please read through this page as it gives info on all the nutrients which can help. Ovulation induction drugs have adverse side effects, see here, here and here. Take care Wray
    Nov 20, 2011
    		 PCO Syndrome
    by: Anonymous

    Hi Wray,
    I 've been following all your comments on this site. I am 23 now. I had my first cycle at 11. Since then I have been suffering from irregular periods. My doc had detected PCOs when I was 18 and prescribed medicines for 7 months. After that I had kind of regular periods. From then , I was away from medicines. Now, I didn't have my period for the past 3 months.
    Now, what is it that one can do to get rid of PCOs? It is only pills that can reduce their effect or any other way??
    Kindly advise.
    Thanks.
    Nov 30, 2011
    		 nice
    by: Anonymous

    thanks, but soy beans has estrogens
    Dec 01, 2011
    		 PCO Syndrome
    by: Wray

    Hi there We do have a page on PCOS. Please read through, it as it give advice on what nutrients to take and how much progesterone to use. It can be reversed without drugs, these do nothing but treat the symptoms, not the cause. The cause is oxidative stress, hence the need for high levels of antioxidants, in particular vitamin D. Take care Wray
    Dec 01, 2011
    		 nice
    by: Wray

    Hi there I'm not sure what comment you are referring to. Yes soy does have oestrogenic properties, it's a food best avoided, see here. Take care Wray
    Dec 06, 2011
    		 End of TWW
    by: Nervous in NY

    Dear Wray,

    Your page has been very insightful. I am a 40 year old who completed an IUI cycle (my 5th) and am very nervous that I may be getting my period. Some of the characteristics of early pregnancy (that I have read)are very similar to getting ones period - so hard to tell which it is. I am taking 100 mg of Endometrin suppositories twice a day- every 12 hours,and more recently have felt the suppositories being discharged. Do you recommend taking more than two suppositories a day or any other supplements. I go for my pregnancy test in 1 1/2 days so I really am anxious.

    Thank you in advance.
    Dec 06, 2011
    		 Additional suppository
    by: Anonymous

    Hi Wray,

    This is a great page. Question. I am taking 100mg of progesterone supplement Endometrin every 12 hours to help support my pregnancy post IUI. At 1 1/2 days to my pregnancy test, I feel that I am losing a lot of the suppositories. Do you recommend supplementing my progesterone levels with an extra 100 mg suppository as I wait out the next couple of days until my test?

    Thanks.

    Tammy
    Dec 06, 2011
    		 Additional suppository
    by: Wray

    Hi Tammy I feel the other anon query is from you too, so will only answer the one. I'm so pleased you found the page helpful, but we have a far more comprehensive page on Pregnancy than this one, please have a look through it. Suppositories are fine at night, but for a morning insertion I would recommend using the suppository in the rectum. The muscles are far stronger, so no leakage will occur. I feel 200mg/day is the barest minimum that should be given after IUI, often levels of 600mg/day are used. Particularly as this is your 5th attempt. We do have many studies on the page I've given you. It certainly won't harm to use more, and if you do I suggest inserting 2 at a time. If you find it hard to persuade the obgyn to give you more, I do know that the creams are just as effective, having helped many women use it during pregnancy. Admittedly only for miscarriages not involving IUI. I take it the embryo embeds with no problem, but that you loose the foetus? How old is it when you miscarry? Has anyone thought to check your vitamin D levels? This is the most vital nutrient for ovulation, conception, a successful pregnancy, but particularly for the growth of the foetus. For it's immune system, it's mind, it's bones and much, much more, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. Please, please have a test done, please. A lack of vitamin D is implicated in miscarriages, see here, here and here. Continued below. Take care Wray
    Dec 06, 2011
    		 Additional suppository Part 2
    by: Wray

    Hi Tammy For more info on levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. And the minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
    Dec 09, 2011
    		 how much cream for men?
    by: Anonymous

    Hi

    How much cream should a man use. I'm interested for my husband? Does he put it on everyday or cycle like women?

    THanks
    Dec 10, 2011
    		 how much cream for men?
    by: Wray

    Hi there I suggest men use between 10-100mg/day, more if symptoms are severe. As men have no cycle they should use it everyday. You might like to read these comments from other men, see here, here here and here. Take care Wray
    Dec 22, 2011
    		 Progesterone and miscarriage
    by: Fionnuala

    Hi. I have recently had 2 miscarriages both of which ended at 12 weeks. At my 6 week check up I was told that my progesterone levels were very low at the time of miscarriage and that this may be the reason I lost my babies. I luckily already have one healthy little boy and had a dream pregnancy with him. I have been told to try again and the team at the hospital will monitor me closely and give me hormones if needed. Obviously I am worried about going through all of it again and just want to know firstly if this is common and secondly is there anything I can do like change my diet etc to prevent this happening again.
    Dec 23, 2011
    		 Progesterone and miscarriage
    by: Wray

    Hi Fionnuala Low levels of progesterone are a common cause of miscarriage, a sudden drop in the level can cause one too. This is usually caused by a stressful event, I had five miscarriages before having my daughter, and looking back all five were caused by stress. Including stopping a dog fight. Unfortunately I knew nothing about progesterone then, nor did the doctors who monitored the miscarriages. I would never agree about keeping a check on levels once pregnant, and then only giving progesterone. Often this is too late, I believe it should always be started before conception occurs. We do have a page on Pregnancy you could look through. It explains the role progesterone plays, and how to use it. There are also plenty of papers you can read on recurrent miscarriages and the use of progesterone. If you should consider using it, please read our page on Oestrogen Dominance as this can occur when first starting it. We also have a page on Nutrition, leading to three sites which all have a good approach to food. I would urge you to stop all grains, and if possible eat organic food. Please have a vitamin D test done, levels are rarely checked and yet a deficiency is also linked to miscarriages, see here, here and here. For more info on levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. And the minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Continued below.
    Dec 23, 2011
    		 Progesterone and miscarriage Part 2
    by: Wray

    Hi Fionnuala Vitamin D is vital for a successful pregnancy, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. Take care Wray
    Dec 26, 2011
    		 CONCERN
    by: Anonymous

    I am a 44 year old woman in good health. Over the past year I have noticed swelling throughout my body, occassional breast tenderness, insomnia, occasional anxiety, unexplained weight gain and LOW LIBIDO. The earlier part of this month my GP told me to go to the ER to be evaluated for a PE. and this is the reason that I am asking you my question. Earlier this month I experienced extreme swelling from my thighs to my toes (no physical pain but almost 3 times my regular size). I elavated my feet and in the morning the swelling had decreased greatly so I went to work but all day I had slightly labored breathing. I called my doctor to make a next day appointment but when I explained the symptoms he asked me to go to the ER. I was evaluated for pulmonary embolism and the results were negative. I jog 1 hour per day 6-7 days a week and I watch my meat and carbohydrate intake. I am trying to transition to a vegan like diet. I just found your site and read your wonderful post. Is there anything natural that I can do to decrease the weight gain, bloating, anxiety and insomnia, and increase my libido.
    Jan 02, 2012
    		 CONCERN
    by: Wray

    Hi there You appear to be in Peri-menopause. This can start 5-10 years before Menopause, the average age of this is 51. From about age 35 we begin getting anovulatory cycles, when no progesterone is made. So levels begin dropping, leaving oestrogen the dominant hormone, all your symptoms point to excess oestrogen. It's an excitatory, inflammatory hormone, causing amongst many things water retention, see here, sore breasts, anxiety, insomnia and low libido. Progesterone is essential for normal lung function, it expands the airways, see here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here. It's helpful for sore breasts, see here, here, here, here, here and here. And there's reason to believe it raises libido, in fact we have many men using it for this, see here. Continued below.
    Jan 02, 2012
    		 CONCERN Part 2
    by: Wray

    Hi there Protein is essential for growth and healing, if you do become a vegan, please consider taking taurine. It's an amino acid which is not found in the vegetable kingdom, only in animal protein. It's essential for the heart and eyes, see here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here. To my mind the only safe way to be a vegan is to eat only raw food. There's a link to an excellent site on our Nutrition page explaining it's benefits. Finally please have a vitamin D test done, it's low in most of us, and is vital to the functioning of every cell. For more info on levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. And the minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
    Jan 02, 2012
    		 What's wrong with me?
    by: Suze

    Hello Wray, I found this site after trying to self-diagnose my symptoms and after reading a lot of your posts I think you might be able to help me and point me in the right direction. I am 51 and up until around 6 months ago have always been fit and in excellent health and have had regular, light 28 day cycles with virtually no pain or problems. During these past six months my life and body appear to have changed dramatically; I now suffer debilitating migraines with no real pattern to them, except I've just had three within the past five days and my period was late (four days). My cycle seems to have moved from 28 days to more like 31-33 days and my period is now very heavy and quite painful lasting around 7 days instead of 4-5 and light. Additionally, I am experiencing aches and pains in my muscles; in particular my arms and legs - I used to run for years and the pains are akin to the aches you would feel after completing a marathon - except they are not getting better. When my period is due, I feel very dizzy and have an underlying sickness which is similar to the 'morning sickness' I have experienced when I was pregnant years ago! Basically, I need my life back - I do a lot of International travel for my work and I'm concerned that I won't feel fit enough to carry on. I can barely get out of bed in the mornings even after 9 hours of sleep plus an afternoon nap! If I could just be rid of the migraines and muscle pains I would feel 'normal' again. I really don't want to visit my doctor as I have never taken medication (never been on the contraceptive pill) and don't want synthetic substances in my body masking symptoms and potentially making things worse in the long-term. I'm in the UK but travel to the US regularly if there is something 'over the counter' I could get whilst I was there? Thank you for your time and help, Wray.
    Jan 04, 2012
    		 What's wrong with me?
    by: Wray

    Hi Suze The average age of Menopause is 51, so it appears you're in the final stages of Peri-menopause. You are so lucky not to have had adverse symptoms earlier, I did and wouldn't wish them on anyone! Progesterone was definitely a life saver for me, as it is for many women. It sounds as if you could do with some. It can't change the length of the cycle now, the ovaries have a mind of their own, but it does stop the heavy painful periods. I have found 400mg/day is needed to stop this, but it does vary in women, you might find you can do with less. But please use sufficient, I've found the 20-40mg/day normally recommended only exacerbates symptoms. And please be aware of Oestrogen Dominance when first using the progesterone. Although using a high amount generally makes this very mild. Interesting you compare the nausea to morning sickness, as it's exactly the same cause, excess oestrogen. When we first fall pregnant, progesterone begins rising, this stimulates oestrogen, which causes all the adverse symptoms experienced in early pregnancy. The same problem occurs with women who have PMS, the ratio of the two hormones becomes skewed, the same in peri-menopause too. Oestrogen also causes water retention, which disturbs the inner ear making us dizzy. I had that so badly at one point I had to lie down, even when on the bed I thought I was going to fall off! Progesterone does help migraines too, see here, here, here, here and here. And please have a vitamin D test done, as a lack of it is implicated in migraines, see here, here and here. Continued below.
    Jan 04, 2012
    		 What's wrong with me? Part 2
    by: Wray

    Hi Suze Most of us have too low a level and living in the UK it's bound to be too low, see here, here, here, here and here. For more info on levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. And the minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. BH now send out test kits, but ignore their 'adequate' level, it's far too low. It's based on the NHS 'inadequate' level! Please contact a friend of mine in London, she can help you with progesterone and vitamin D too. Her details are here. Take care Wray
    Jan 13, 2012
    		 re Hormones & weight gain
    by: Anonymous

    I had a full hysto nearly 4 yrs ago. Ovaries went as well. My Gyno wanted me to go on patches but I didnt as I was worried with possible side effect.
    In that 4 yrs I have gained 25kg. I have always had to watch my weight. But now it does matter what i do I cannot loose it. I have tried everything. If I have one bad day I can gain 1 or 2kg and the bad days are not really that bad. I try and walk everyday. I am always tired and have no sex drive at all. When I do have sex my vagina is as dry as which makes it uncomfortable. I have trouble sleeping of a night. I am 54yrs old and sometimes I think I should never have had the hysto in the first place. I think constant bleeding was better than this. Can anyone help please maybe natural hormones or some foods that would benefit. The weight is sending me into depression.
    Thankyou
    Jan 17, 2012
    		 re Hormones & weight gain
    by: Wray

    Hi there I would never recommend a hyst, unless cancer is present. They are all too quick to take it out, without looking at the other options. And why your ovaries too, they supply the hormones you need. It always amazes me how HRT is always offered, without taking into account that progesterone also plummets with no ovaries. I'm happy you refused it! Unfortunately, although you have no ovarian supply of hormones, our fat cells continue to make oestrogen, but no progesterone to counter it, see here. It's oestrone, the menopause hormone, and is as potent as oestradiol, the pre-menopause oestrogen. So it doesn't surprise me you are putting on weight. Both oestradiol and oestrone can cause Insulin Resistance, which it appears you have developed, if not always had as you say you've had to watch your weight. It is possible to reverse with nutrients, please read through this page. Progesterone does help, as it speeds metabolism slightly. It will help with the other symptoms you are experiencing, it's excellent in the vagina, as it's an anti-inflammatory. I suggest using some there at night, and during intercourse. It will not adversely affect your husband, in fact we have many men using it to good effect. I recommend 100-200mg/day, more if symptoms are severe. We have more info on it's use on our Menopause page. But please read the page on Oestrogen Dominance before considering it, as this can occur. Take care Wray
    Jan 21, 2012
    		 37years old and trying to conceive
    by: Anonymous

    Hello Wray,
    THanks for coming up with this helpful page. Am a woman aged 37, and myself and my husband have been trying for a baby since 2010 up to now. I went to the doctor and they gave me folic acid. I have been checking for more information on the internet and i came a cross a certain page which listed Agnus Castus, soy milk, raw nuts, yam ( like cassava) flaxseed oil, red raspberry tea,evening primrose oil. All this were listed that they help to boost ovulation or help when one has infertility problem. I went to town and bought soy milk, evening primrose oil, Agnus Castus, yam. I have't yet cooked the yam but i read about the nigerian tribe called yoruba saying that yam helps to have hyperovulation. I don't know if am doing the right thing or not. Please advise me before i make a mistake. My cycle is regular and heavy and i do 7days.I started my periods of January 2012 on the 11th and finish on the 18th. Am bad at counting my cycle and the doctor told me that my highest ovulation date is 25th of this month. PLEASE PLEASE ADVISE ME TO TAKE THE RIGHT VITAMINS OR STOP THE BAD ONE AMONGS THE ONES LISTED ABOVE .THANKS WRAY.
    Jan 22, 2012
    		 37years old and trying to conceive
    by: Wray

    Hi there Thanks for the kind words. We do have a page on Pregnancy, which explains how to use progesterone, when and how much. It could be this is all you need. Agnus castus has been used for centuries for women's problems. It can also reduce prolactin levels, which in turn can cause luteal phase dysfunction, with subsequent problems in embryo implantation. But because it has a mild oestrogenic action, levels of 17 beta-oestradiol can increase. One study found mild ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome occurred in the luteal phase, see here, here, here, here, here and here. If prolactin levels are high both progesterone and the amino acid tyrosine are very affective at suppressing it. Tyrosine is the precursor to dopamine, if stressed or insufficient protein is eaten, dopamine drops. This allows prolactin to rise. Excess oestrogen also causes a rise in prolactin levels. Have you had tests for your hormone levels, oestrogen, testosterone, LH, FSH and prolactin? All these have a bearing on fertility, if all or some are high it can prevent it. Whereas low progesterone is often a major factor, as these other hormones can suppress ovulation, so no progesterone is secreted. This is vital for a successful pregnancy. I would avoid the soy, it's also oestrogenic, see here, here, here and here. Raspberry leaf has been used for centuries to facilitate delivery. I would advise against using it while pregnant unless you have someone experienced in it's use to help you. If the 'yam' is cassava, it does not contain diosgenin, which is used to synthesise progesterone. Only yams from the genus Dioscoria contain it. There is evidence women eating it can control their cycle, but there is no evidence the body can convert diosgenin into progesterone. So the effect is probably due to something else. Continued below.
    Jan 22, 2012
    		 37years old and trying to conceive Part 2
    by: Wray

    Hi there You say your doctor told you you would ovulate on the 25th, this is only if you have a 28 day cycle, do you? All women, irrespective of their cycle length, ovulate 12-14 days before bleeding. Cycles can vary from 21 days to 35 days, making 28 days the average only. The best way to tell if you are ovulating is to get a mini microscope, see here. It takes the guess work out of it. Please have a vitamin D test done, this is vital for ovulation, conception, a successful pregnancy and the growth of the foetus, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. Another nutrient you could consider taking is taurine, it's also vital for the foetus, see here and here. For more info on vitamin D levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
    Jan 23, 2012
    		 PCOS and eye problems
    by: Lynn

    Dear Wray,
    You were right my daughter does have PCOS and has gone through the fertility treatments with no results. So now instead she is trying a complete reversal in diet. No sugar, no processed foods, lots of raw fruits and vegetables, a supplement called Juice plus, taking Vitamin D3, and a natural progesterone. She is feeling much better, has much more energy, no more depression, and last week she she finally had a normal period. She is continuing the progesterone cream twice daily for now.
    Do you know if PCOS can affect the eyes? She has had an on going eye problem which causes her eyes to become red, painful and light sensitive. This reoccurs at different times of the year. The eye doctor gives her steroid drops which clear it up but never really cures it. He did mention that it could be a hormone related issue. this eye pain is a throbbing and sometimes a stabbing type of pain and hurts especially in sunlight. She has had it for about 5-6 years. She has tried colloidal silver but so far it hasn't helped. Do you know of any type of cure for this since it could possibly be related to hormone imbalance?

    Thank you,
    Lynn
    Jan 23, 2012
    		 PCOS and eye problems
    by: Wray

    Hi Lynn First the doctors say she doesn't have PCOS and now they say she does! Or are there two Lynn's on this page, both with daughters having cycle problems?! I'm delighted she's feeling better and has at last had a normal period. I do hope her cycles become normal too, and that she begins ovulating naturally. I'm not in favour of the drugs given to stimulate the ovaries. I do hope she's taking enough vitamin D, a minimum of 5000iu's per day. Although 10,000iu's has been recommended, see here. And I do hope enough progesterone too. She might consider taking some of the other nutrients which reverse PCOS. It's not a normal 'period' one needs to be concerned about, but whether she is ovulating. Vitamin D, inositol, the antioxidant amino acids L-arginine and N-acetyl cysteine have all been found to initiate ovulation. She might consider getting a mini-microscope, this takes the guess work out of ovulation timing, see here. As her eye problems occur at different times of the year, it sounds more like a allergy to me. Have you checked pollen counts or pollution in your area? Or does it occur in a pattern related to her cycle? In which case it could be related to hormones. Progesterone does effect the pressure in the eye, see here. She could try rubbing some cream over the lids and around her eyes. I use it there twice a day. Oxidative stress plays a big role in eye inflammation, see here. The N-acetyl cysteine should help, as it's a potent antioxidant. It falls into a group of bio-chemicals known as thiols, inferring the sulphur bond they all have. Unfortunately this gives cysteine it's characteristic sulphur smell which puts people off! I take it every day, and I'm used to the smell now, it is also very, very sour. There's reason to believe that the addition of NAC prevents ageing, because of it's antioxidant properties, see here and here. Vitamin D is also vital for eye heath, see here. Is she taking sufficient, and has she had a test done yet? I feel she should go to an opthamologist, in case she has an infection. Continued below.
    Jan 23, 2012
    		 PCOS and eye problems Part 2
    by: Wray

    Hi Lynn Finally taurine, another sulphur amino acid, is vital for the eyes too. Taurine is only found in the animal kingdom, no plant, seed or nut contains it, see here, here, here, here, here, here, here, andhere. It can be converted from NAC, although many feel not in sufficient quantities. She could try taurine eye drops, although I've never found them so make my own. I use a 2% solution every morning and night in my eyes, due to it's protective properties. I've looked through our correspondence, and can't find any reference to taking vitamin D and taurine for Pregnancy. But I have given all the papers to other women on this page, please read through them, as both are vital for a growing foetus. If I gave them again here, it would make this reply too long! Take care Wray
    Jan 23, 2012
    		 Thank you
    by: Lynn

    Thank you for your answer. We will try some of the remedies you suggest for eye problems. Her eye problems don't seem to be at any particular times of the year but I guess it could be allergies. Thank you too for the info on what can help ovulation and the mini- microscope, this is all so helpful.
    Jan 24, 2012
    		 Thank you
    by: Wray

    Hi Lynn Glad it was of help. Please let me know how you get on. Take care Wray
    Jan 24, 2012
    		 Re Eye Problems
    by: Anonymous

    Hi Wray/Lynn,

    I used to have PCOS and now have hyperthyroidism. Years before being diagnosed with the thyroid problem I used to have a number of unrelated symptoms (or so I thought!) and one of them was light sensitivity, others were occasional breathlessness, swelling at knee joints, muscle tremors, depression etc amongst other things - it turns out these are all symptoms of hyperthyroidism, which like PCOS is related to an auto-immune disease. Maybe your daughter should also have her thyroid levels checked out, hope this helps.
    Jan 24, 2012
    		 Re Eye Problems
    by: Wray

    Hi there Thanks for the tip, it's always good to know about someone else's journey. From Lynn's first comments on this page, it seems the doctors did little in the way of testing. And yet something I overlooked was the possibility her low weight, she is 5'3" and weighed 93-95lbs a year ago, could be due to hyperthyroidism. Thanks for reminding me! I find it interesting though, both hypo- and hyperthyroidism have low vitamin D levels, both conditions benefit from taking it. Vitamin D regulates every cell, it influences over 2000 genes, so it could be the disorders are caused by a lack of vitamin D causing the cells to malfunction. Many studies have found if one autoimmune disease is found, there is often another too. It does make me wonder! In fact a lack of vitamin D is found in all autoimmune diseases, see here, here and here. Dendritic cells are implicated in the initiation of autoimmune diseases, vitamin D inhibits their production, see here. Progesterone also inhibits dendritic cells, whereas oestradiol increases them, see here here. In all the autoimmune diseases I've looked at, a high level of oestrogen is observed and low progesterone. Or the ratio of the two hormones is skewed. Oxidative stress is prevalent in autoimmune diseases too, usually as a result of low vitamin D. High prolactin is implicated too, see here. Oestrogen stimulates prolactin production too, see here. Excess prolactin suppresses dopamine, the converse is true. The precursor to dopamine is the amino acid tyrosine, if there is a lack of this amino or protein in the diet, dopamine drops and prolactin rises. Tyrosine is also the precursor to the two thyroid hormones T3 and T4. It's also the precursor to the two stress hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline, so demands on tyrosine are very high! Continued below.
    Jan 24, 2012
    		 Re Eye Problems Part 2
    by: Wray

    Hi there These are a few papers on hyperthyroidism, see here, here, here, here, here and here. I hope Lynn gets a chance to read them too. Take care Wray
    Jan 25, 2012
    		 Eye problems
    by: Lynn

    To Anonymous and Wray, I really appreciate your input on this. My daughter started taking Vitamin D3 (5000 ius) about a month ago when she changed over to a healthy diet. It could have been that she was very low in Vit D and that is why she is feeling so much better now.

    A few years ago she did have her thyroid levels checked and they said that they were normal. However a friend told me that the range for normal is wide and that a person could have low levels and still be one or two points within "normal" and yet have a thyroid that is struggling. So I would like to have her thyroid levels checked again.

    We had someone recommend applying essential oils, (lavender) around the eyes and this morning her eyes are worse.

    Thank you both for your help and I will definitely read the recommended articles.
    Lynn
    Jan 25, 2012
    		 eye problems
    by: Lynn

    One other thing; Eye doctors have given my daughter steroid eye drops for her eye problems. They do work to take away the pain and redness. She is to take 10 drops for the first 10 hours then five drops a day for five days, then 4 drops for four days, three drops for three days and so on. However we have been told that steroids are poison to her liver and will inhibit the progress of healing her hormones and infertility. Can you tell me if this is true? She is taking progesterone cream, so does steroids interfere with the progesterone?
    Lynn
    Jan 25, 2012
    		 Eye problems
    by: Wray

    Hi Lynn I'm glad the info was of help. I think you'll find once her D levels are high enough, the thyroid problems, if she has any, won't be there. Please have a test done, it could be she needs more than 5000iu's/day. I don't doubt the vitamin D is helping, it's a remarkable nutrient. Although lavender is one of the very few essential oils that can be applied directly to the skin without harm, I wouldn't advise it around the eyes, particularly as she has problems there. I don't think you should have any concerns about the eye drops, the amount of steroid they're giving is very small. It's the large doses given for arthritis etc that do cause problems. For this reason it won't affect the progesterone either. Take care Wray
    Jan 26, 2012
    		 Now Another Problem
    by: Lynn

    Now that my daughter went ahead and used the steroid drops her eyes cleared up in about two hours, so thank you for relieving our minds on that subject. However I had mentioned that my daughter had started her period which was such a hopeful sign. But today is only day 17 of her cycle and she has started bleeding again. She is taking 1/8 tsp of progesterone cream twice a day, but should she start taking it less or more. Some websites say a person is not taking enough and other websites say to cut back on the amount. Some websites say this happens because of too high a level of estrogen and others say it because of too high an amount of progesterone.

    She and her husband are not financially able to get lots of tests done. Boy! nothing is ever easy.
    Jan 27, 2012
    		 Now Another Problem
    by: Wray

    Hi Lynn Oh dear this can happen. Progesterone can upset the cycle, making periods either earlier of later, although I've found it's often earlier as in your daughters case. You say she's using 1/8tsp twice a day, but you don't say how much progesterone. I've found 100-200mg/day or more is needed, dependant on symptoms. If I suspect, the 1/8tsp is giving her about 10-20mg progesterone, or 20-40mg/day total, is this right? In which case she's using far too little. She would need to use about 5-10ml (1-2tsp) of cream per day to get the 100mg, or 10-20ml (2-4tsp) of cream to get 200mg/day. Please increase the amount. I would also suggest she uses it daily, through her periods too, for about 2-3 months. This will ensure progesterone becomes the dominant hormone, and suppresses the oestrogen. Once she feels stable she can begin to follow her cycle again. We have more info about this on our page How to use progesterone cream. Tests are of interest, particularly if you want to find the ratio of the hormones, but I don't find essential. Symptoms are a better gauge, tests cannot tell how one is feeling! Take care Wray
    Jan 28, 2012
    		 Now Another problem
    by: Lynn

    The progesterone cream that my daughter is using does not tell the percentage on the container, but on the website it says 1800mg usp, micronized. I'm not sure what that means. The owner of the company has asked her size and weight (she is 5'4'' and weighs 105lb). He has advised her to cut down to 1/8 tsp only once a day instead of twice. Do you think she is getting enough?
    How much is 1800mg usp, micronized anyway?

    He has also advised her to stop the cream for 7 days and consider the first day of her bleeding to be day 1 again.
    Does this sound right to you?

    Thank you,
    Lynn
    Jan 29, 2012
    		 Now Another problem
    by: Wray

    Hi Lynn Thanks for this, but I still need more info! Is the 1800mg in a 2oz container? If so then each ml of cream contains 30mg progesterone. Therefore 1/8tsp contains 18.57mg progesterone. This is the reason she's not responding. I suggest 100-200mg/day, 5-10 times the amount. She will continue to feel unsettled, if not awful. Plus her cycle will never regulate. Apart from the fact she's been told to stop it for 7 days, I don't understand this. Please read through that page I gave you on PCOS, the amount and when to use it, are all explained there. Plus it's essential she takes large doses of antioxidants if she wants to reverse the condition. Take care Wray
    Jan 29, 2012
    		 Now Another Problem
    by: Lynn

    I'm sorry I didn't give you all the information. The container is a 2oz.

    I had read the PCOS page and now I've read it more carefully. I read on there that "Some authorities advise using the cream every day without a break to prevent any eggs from growing and maturing, as they only result in more cysts. If this route is followed use half the dose given above for the first two to three months." So maybe this person is advising less progesterone cream for this reason....still 18.57mg is "way" less.

    My daughter has stopped all sugar, she is juicing and eating raw vegetables, taking Juice Plus, almost no dairy, some organic meats, and as much organic foods as she can afford. Also she is eating organic breads, such as Ezekiel Bread, and organic potatoes. She is using coconut oil for cooking and also using it on her skin. If we order the PCO Formula could she be getting too much of any certain kind of vitamin or mineral?

    Also she has been told by another person that she could have candida and to buy something called Candida Forte and stop anything with yeast.
    Wouldn't candida be cleared up with just a healthy diet and no sugar?

    Again thanks,
    Lynn
    Jan 29, 2012
    		 Now Another Problem
    by: Lynn,

    I forgot to add that she is also taking 5000ml of Vit D too.

    Does the PCO Formula have L-arginine,
    N-acetyl Cysteine, L-glutamine, L-glycine and MCT Oil?

    I don't know what all this is but I read that it's important. I read this on your page under Natural Treatments but I don't see it listed in the Supplement Facts for the PCO Formula.
    Jan 29, 2012
    		 Now Another Problem
    by: Wray

    Hi Lynn Oh so my guess was correct. Then she is using far too little. I will have to change that para, as it's best to use a high amount throughout, until things have settled down. I don't know how much the cream your daughter is using costs her, but knowing most of them, it's probably quite high. Please take a look at this page here and do a comparison. Please remember it's not a cream you're buying, but an active ingredient. I'm delighted to hear she's eating as much organic food as she can afford, it really pays. And using coconut oil too, an excellent oil. And no, she won't get too much of any vitamin or mineral, the amounts are designed around the studies done on the various on nutrients. Unless she's taking other supplements too, in which case she could. The studies are all on the PCOS page. People make a huge fuss about how to get rid of Candida. If she does have it, ask her to have a look through this page, as it gives info on how to clear it. But you are right, the foods she's eating are all good, and if she's avoiding sugar, even better. If she does have it, then it would be advisable to stop the bread and potatoes, as these both contain sugars. Take care Wray
    Jan 29, 2012
    		 menopause and mitra valve prolapse ~ should I be taking progestrone?
    by: Anonymous

    I had a hysterectomy 5 yrs ago and tried estrogen and progesterone creams and pills, but was never consistent for one reason or another. I have gone thru a lot of stress this yr and have lost a lot of hair and my skin is getting very wrinkled. I have a mitral valve prolapse ( irregular heart beats). I do not want to add any issues in taking estrogens and progesterone if this can cause heart disease strokes or other things. I have noticed that I gained weight when taking the progesterone the last time but everything else seemed to be ok. What can I do to get my hair to grow back or something natural to level me out.

    Thanks
    Denise
    Jan 30, 2012
    		 menopause and mitra valve prolapse ~ should I be taking progestrone?
    by: Wray

    Hi Denise There are nutrients which can help hair growth. I suggest you try…
    5000iu's/day vitamin D
    2000mg/day N-actyl cysteine
    2000mg/day inositol
    2-3mg biotin
    100mg thiamine (B1)

    It's not a quick fix, as first the hair has to stop falling out, only then can it regrow. And it's not fast at that either! Hair grows about 1 to 1.5 centimetres per month, although ageing reduces this growth. Although mitral valve prolapse is a physical problem, the irregular heart beat can be helped by progesterone. Oestrogen causes prolongation of the QT interval, which results in palpitations, arrhythmia and Torsades de Pointes. Whereas progesterone shortens the QT interval, see here, here, here, here and here. If you should try it, please use sufficient. I recommend 100-200mg/day, more if symptoms are severe. The reason for your previous weight gain was probably due to the low amount you were told to use. This is usually in the region of 20-40mg/day, I've found this often increases symptoms. Oestrogen causes water retention, plus it's a mitogen stimulating cells to divide and multiply, including fat cells. Hence the weight gain. Progesterone is a excellent diuretic, now given via IV transfusion to TBI victims, to prevent oedema forming, see here. We have more info on our Menopause page. But before you try it again, please see our page on Oestrogen Dominance. Take care Wray
    Mar 19, 2012
    		 progesterone and your liver
    by: Anonymous

    Hi

    Does anyone know how progesterone will have affect on your liver. I have been dx Complex Hyperplasia wiwithout atypical cells. My physician has me on a progesterone therapy for 3 months. My liver test has been elevated. Should I be concern?
    Mar 21, 2012
    		 progesterone and your liver
    by: Wray

    Hi there There's no evidence progesterone adversely affects the liver, it does help cholesterol output and improves glucuronidation, one of the detoxification systems in the liver, see here. But there's no question that oestrogen does affect the liver adversely, see here, here, here, here, here and here. Progesterone does help hyperplasia, see here, here and here. You don't say how much you are using, but initially progesterone does stimulate oestrogen, particularly if insufficient is used. This could be the reason for the elevated test. I recommend 100-200mg/day, more if symptoms are severe. We have more info on our page How to use progesterone cream. Take care Wray
    Apr 05, 2012
    		 hi wray can you help me with fibrocystic breast
    by: aimee

    Good day wray.....hi i am a nurse and i just recently had an ultrasound and diagnosed to have lots of cyst in my breast and one cyst is big which needed to be removed surgically.....i was just thinking coz i read a lot of articles regarding this matter......i do hope you can help me with this matter....

    i have been starting on vegan diet and looking for organic foods that will prevent me from taking any bad food which may cause harm to the body.....coz i do believe that our body is a natural healer which eventually helps us when we allow it to heal itself by not taking anything that hormonal, or artificial sense...

    i even read about the connection between using bra for fibrocystic breasts and it did help them...i am thinking of doing this also and see how it goes coz i do believe that we ourselves are causing the problems of our health like creating so many artificials in our body thus mutating our body thus causing a lot of problems....

    i do know you have different perspective but i do know we are almost alike in a sense we do search for answers to keep our body healthy.....

    thanks in advance and i am so impressed how you have taken time to help woman here with your time for more than a year.......you've got a heart for helping just like me ....i do hope to help my patients with natural methods as well hope you can help me with this...thank you and God bless
    Apr 05, 2012
    		 spotting
    by: Anonymous

    hi,iv been having problems with very light bleeding for a long time im 57 ,iv been in and out of doctors and hospital having biopsys and smears done,all results came back ok ,also had polyps removed,but they left the fibroid,still getting light bleeding,just wondering if i could be oestrogen dominance,looking at the symptoms i seem to have most of them.what would be the best thing for me to do ,i cannot go on hrt as breast cancer runs in the family,any help would be appreciated,thank you
    Apr 06, 2012
    		 wild yams
    by: Anonymous

    WILD YAMS
    Several species of wild yams produce natural progesterone from the steroid diosgenin. Wild yams found to contain or produce diosgenin include Dioscorea mexicana from Mexico and Discorea pseudojaponica from Taiwan. Cultivated yams or sweet potatoes do not produce natural progesterone.
    resource: http://www.livestrong.com/article/30478-natural-progesterone/

    is this incorrect?
    Apr 07, 2012
    		 hi wray can you help me with fibrocystic breast
    by: Wray

    Hi Aimee Thanks for your kind words, I've actually been doing this work for 15 years now! But our website only had this access for others in the past 4 years. Fibrocystic breasts are so easy to reverse, progesterone and/or iodine is all that's needed. We do have a page on Breast Cysts you might like to look through. I do understand your wish to become vegan, although I think the only safe way is via all raw food. Soy is not a good food, often used by vegetarians and vegans, see here. We do have a page on Nutrition, there are links to several raw food sites. Take care Wray
    Apr 07, 2012
    		 spotting
    by: Wray

    Hi there Fibroids are caused by oxidative stress, which leads to inflammation. MMPs are enzymes that cause inflammation and bleeding. We have more info on our Menstruation page. Oestrogen is an inflammatory hormone, exacerbating fibroids and any inflammatory condition, they also stimulate the production of MMPs. Progesterone is an anti-inflammatory, it helps excessive bleeding and fibroids, plus suppressing oestrogen and the MMPs. I believe you are short of vitamin D too. It's a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, and does reduce fibroid volume, see here, here, here and here. I'm relieved you can't take HRT! If you say breast cancer runs in the family it would appear your family is short of vitamin D too. A lack of it can lead to an increased risk of over 20 different cancers. Please have a test done. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. I normally recommend 100-200mg/day progesterone, although you might need more. I have found 400mg/day is needed if bleeding is heavy. N-acetyl cysteine is excellent at helping too, it inhibits the MMPs. It's also a potent antioxidant so helps with any type of inflammation. You might take encouragement from this comment here. If you do consider progesterone, please see our page on Oestrogen Dominance first. Take care Wray
    Apr 07, 2012
    		 wild yams
    by: Wray

    Hi there Thanks for giving me the link, but they are very wrong. Yes the disoscoria species of yams do contain diosgenin, but no progesterone. This has to be synthesised in a lab from the diosgenin. The bottom line is it doesn’t matter what plant is used for synthesising progesterone, providing it contains a plant sterol in sufficient quantities to make it economical. All plants have sterols, often called phytosterols. Plants such as the soy bean, Dioscorea species of yams, fenugreek, sisal, calabar bean, some lilies, yucca, some solanum species, maize and many more contain phytosterols. Some of which are stigmasterol, diosgenin, beta-sitosterol, campesterol, hecogenin, sarsasapogenin, solasodine. All these can be used to synthesise progesterone, but it has to be done in a lab, the body cannot do it. The progesterone molecule itself has only recently been found in the walnut tree in 2010. The researchers speculate that the hormone might be an ancient bio-regulator that evolved billions of years ago, before the appearance of modern plants and animals. The new discovery may change scientific understanding of the evolution and function of progesterone in living things, see here. There's more info on our page The History of Progesterone. Take care Wray
    May 14, 2012
    		 can we combat hysterctomy ?
    by: kerry

    hi wray
    i have read with interest many of your post on progesterone and have just been given the news that it has been recomended that i get my uterus removed ! i have normal ovary markers and my pap smear came back normal BUT as i am rather overweight and i assume an over production of oestregen ?? is there another way ?

    the gyno has prescribed me primolut (?) as an option but i am now going like a demon at losing weight so my hypothesis is that as the kilos go down would the production of oestregen be also reduced?
    have you any other advice as i have been told that progesterone has a side effect of retaining weight so I am loathe to take it and the idea of surgery (had a recent polyectomy and currettage where they found simple and complex abnormal cells in both endometrial lining and the polyp)

    any advice and help would be greatly apprectiated and i hope to lick this thing with nutrition and more vitamin D ! maybe i am over simplifying the whole thing but just dont wanna go down the hysterectomy path if i can avoid it

    thanks in anticipation (sorry if any part of this question has been answered previously)
    May 14, 2012
    		 APD or Lupus....I have my doubts
    by: Erin

    Dear Wray,
    I have been absorbed in your posts for about an hour now. I am fascinated by the information you provide and was wondering if you could give me advice regarding my symptoms.

    Since the birth of my first child (9yrs) I have had a number of symptoms all related to my cycle. I have incisional Endo (2 surgeries), and beginning of Adenomyosis and the pain that comes with both. I have major depression 3 days before period, horrible migranes week before period and then the week after, extreme exhaustion during. I have had numerous odd skin "things" all related to cycle rash on palms, eczema, butterfly rash on cheeks (rosacea?), welts, tingling, horrible itching and the most annoying is chronic fever blisters! I am also prone to impetigo and bladder infections during the worst of it.

    During pregnancy I am...well cured but after I "crash". And when I stop breastfeeding I crash again! I am currently on B/C pills to stop periods completely but after 3 quiet wonderful months every symptom is back regardless. I am only 32! Please any advice would be greatly appreciated!
    May 14, 2012
    		 can we combat hysterctomy ?
    by: Wray

    Hi Kerry I don't believe a hyst is necessary, unless there's cancer present. And you don't have that, so I'm puzzled why they've even suggested it. All Contraceptives have the potential to harm, besides most of them stop ovarian function and therefore progesterone production. Not what you want! You are quite right about loosing weight and therefore loosing oestrogen. Oestrogen is a mitogen, stimulating cells to proliferate, including fat cells. But these are also a source of oestrogen so a vicious cycle starts. All too often being over weight has nothing to do with food or eating too much, but all to do with hormones out of balance, a lack of vitamin D, insulin resistance or 'obesogens', a word recently coined to cover all toxic chemicals which disturb our hormonal balance. Progesterone does not cause weight gain, it can't as it speeds metabolism. The web is littered with such stories, in fact I did a web page on Progesterone Misconceptions out of frustration! But what it does do is stimulate oestrogen if too little is used, then it's worse than useless. We have more info on our Oestrogen Dominance page. I recommend using 100-200mg/day, more if symptoms are severe. But if someone doesn't want to experience oestrogen dominance, then 400-500mg/day should be used. Insulin Resistance causes weight gain, and impossible to lose unless reversed. IR is caused by excess oestrogen and testosterone and a lack of vitamin D. These two hormones suppress progesterone, plus a lack of vitamin D reduces it's benefits. Overweight people often have leptin resistance too, this is essential for maintaining a normal weight. Progesterone increases leptin, see here. Other hormones can be out of balance too, such as adiponectin and ghrelin. A lack of vitamin D is probably the over riding factor for weight gain, see here, here, here and here. Continued below.
    May 14, 2012
    		 can we combat hysterctomy ? Part 2
    by: Wray

    Hi Kerry And more here and here. Most of us have too low a level. It disturbs blood glucose, which in turn can lead to overeating in some. Disturbed blood glucose in turn leads to IR and a host of other problems. Finally obesogens, see here, here and here. The last paper is very long, if you don't want to plough through it, enter 'obesogens' into control/find to get to the reference to them. Please have a vitamin D test done. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. You might like to see the page we have on Nutrition. Take care Wray
    May 15, 2012
    		 APD or Lupus....I have my doubts
    by: Wray

    Hi Erin I'm happy the info was of help. I don't believe such a thing as APD exists. For a very simple reason, we make great quantities of progesterone during pregnancy, over 400mg/day in the third trimester. Which is why you were 'cured' of the problem. The occurrence of this so called disorder would therefore be far, far higher than it is. But it's extremely rare. It always occurs in the few days before we bleed. Progesterone increases from ovulation, peaking mid luteal phase, then the few days prior to bleeding it starts dropping sharply, please see the Graph we have. It's this drop or withdrawal, which causes all the major symptoms many women suffer from, including the dermatitis and migraines too. The ratio of progesterone to oestrogen becomes skewed during these few days, with oestrogen dominating. One study which blamed progesterone says "The patient... had recurrent cyclic lesions on the skin... that appeared just before regular menstruation and persisted until a few days after." Ironically the anti-oestrogen drug tamoxifen was given to suppress it. Another study mentions "a significant premenstrual flare of skin lesions", but in this case they acknowledged it was caused by oestrogen, which makes a great deal of sense. The paper ends by stating "Women can become sensitized to their own estrogens; the major clue is worsening of the skin problem premenstrually" Again the drug used to suppress it was tamoxifen, see here, here and here. Another study suggests "the possible impact of estrogen mimetics, in the environment and in food... is associated with mast cell activation" Progesterone inhibits mast cell secretion, see here. Oestrogen is a mitogen causing cells to proliferate, it's also an excitatory, inflammatory hormone, which stimulates mast cell secretions and other inflammatory cytokines, see here. Continued below.
    May 15, 2012
    		 APD or Lupus....I have my doubts Part 2
    by: Wray

    Hi Erin And more here, here and here. Migraines often occur the few days prior to bleeding for the same reason, progesterone withdrawal, it's excellent for migraines, see here, here, here, here, here, here and here. Vitamin D also helps migraines, see here, here and here. Oestrogen exacerbates Candida and other fungal infections. UTI's are generally considered distinct from IC (interstitial cystitis). Suggesting bacteria, viruses or fungi are responsible for the UTI, whereas the aetiology of IC is unknown. As the bladder is connected to the urethra, I find it difficult to conceive of two separate problems. Antibiotics are given for UTI's, often unsuccessfully, or repeatedly in the belief it's killing the pathogen. Bernard Shaw wrote "… the characteristic microbe of a disease might be a symptom instead of a cause." I tend to believe this. Pathogens are opportunists, if a cell or tissue is damaged they will take advantage of this fact. Continued below.
    May 15, 2012
    		 APD or Lupus....I have my doubts Part 3
    by: Wray

    Hi Erin More and more studies are finding that inflammation is behind our diseases and disorders. Inflammation results from a disturbance in the immune system, often due to a lack of antioxidants. Which is usually a result of the pollution, processed food and drink, stress and more to which we are now subject. Inflammation seems to fit the bill for both UTI's and IC, but as the urethra is more easily accessible to bacteria etc, it doesn't surprise me they are found there. Several studies have found IC is due to inflammation, and a subsequent damage to the lining. Why not the UTI's too? D-mannose is sometimes effective. It's believed that the bacteria, if present, will adhere to the D-mannose and be excreted. A more likely explanation is the lining of the urinary tract, including the bladder, has become damaged by inflammation. The lining is a thin layer of glycoproteins, these are a combination of a sugar molecule and a protein. The D-mannose can be used for glycoprotein biosynthesis, see here. This would strengthen the lining preventing possible attack from bacteria or inflammation. The amino acid arginine can help too, see here. Mast cells are implicated, see here. Progesterone inhibits mast cell secretions. Excess oestrogen and a lack of progesterone appear to be reasonable cause, see and here. Oestrogen is an excitatory, inflammatory hormone, it's involvement is hardly surprising. Particularly when looking at the statistics, far more women get UTI's and IC than men. Interestingly oestradiol increases mast cell histamine secretion, which is initiated by substance P. This is a pro-inflammatory, nociceptive neuropeptide. Even more interesting, progesterone and it's metabolites are suppressed by substance P, see here, unless sufficient is used, see here and here. All drug based Contraceptives should be avoided! Continued below.
    May 15, 2012
    		 APD or Lupus....I have my doubts Part 4
    by: Wray

    Hi Erin You say you have Endometriosis, this is caused by oxidative stress and exacerbated by oestrogen, both of which lead to inflammation. Large amounts of antioxidants are needed, in particular vitamin D, please have a test done. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. I've found endo requires about 500mg/day progesterone, particularly if pain is present. I feel your other symptoms would be helped by this much. If you should consider it, I suggest using it for 2-3 months daily, through any bleeding to ensure progesterone becomes dominant. Once you feel stable you can begin following your cycle again, and slowly reduce the amount over a number of weeks. There's more info about this on our page How to use progesterone cream. Take care Wray
    May 15, 2012
    		 Hysterectomy ?
    by: Kerry

    Dear wray

    Tks so much for your response & will go thru links with a fine tooth comb !
    I had a blood test in feb which did show slightly lowered vitamin d so will supplement that and also go sit in the sun which I normally avoid
    I am almost 59 so I assume when gyno went thru pathology reports post polypectomy (which showed pre cancerous simple & complex cells in lining & polyp) her first response is to remove the uterus ( endometrium is also 19 mm) I have spoken to some phone hotlines for more info but she said by taking progesterone I could keep things in balance but it would not reverse the problem
    Gyno said downside of progesterone was it could cause weight gain? Or perhaps hamper weight loss ? As I need to lose a serious amount whatever happens I am as I said loathe to take it BUT not sure how much bleeding I can put up with?

    I hate the thought of surgery & priority is to shed weight so I will talk to my GP to get progest cream as you say this is most effective - gyno did say there is this slow release IUD but not sure if that's suitable , any thoughts? Can't recall the name / brand of that but u prob know of it

    I'll go thru links & respond again later but will def start with D vit

    Talk again soon
    K
    May 15, 2012
    		 Hysterectomy ?
    by: Wray

    Hi Kerry I can't agree about progesterone only keeping things in balance, and it won't reverse the problem. It does. If you do consider the progesterone please make sure you use enough. As I said too little is worse than useless and will cause weight gain. I'm a bit puzzled by your comment 'BUT not sure how much bleeding I can put up with?'. Do you bleed a lot? As you haven't mentioned this. I'm puzzled by this too, as you're 59 so shouldn't be bleeding heavily at this stage, if at all. If you do you will need at least 400mg/day to stop it. Your lining is very thick, so if you don't bleed normally, you will probably have one period after starting the progesterone, rarely does it occur twice. It's nothing to worry about, it's just cleaning the lining out, which is a good thing. The slow release IUD does not contain progesterone! Why they get progestins and progesterone mixed up I'll never understand. The Mirena does not release progesterone but a progestin called levonorgestrel. This has been shown to lower progesterone levels, plus impeding the blood flow in the uterine arteries, see here. Levonorgestrel is derived from testosterone, so has androgenic properties. This is the prescribing information here, and please see here too. You might like to read these comments here from women who've used the Mirena. And please make sure you take enough vitamin D. If your test showed 'slightly' lowered levels, they are probably well below the recommended minimum of 50ng/ml. Take care Wray
    May 15, 2012
    		 Hysterectomy
    by: Kerry

    Hi again

    Forgot to mention I am working on insulin resistance too & to be clear about comments fr oncology person today , she did say that by use of progesterone uterus would reduce in size ( I gather when hormones are in balance even post menopause things go back to normal?)

    Today I am getting the d supplement & will sit in sun & tomorrow will go visit the doctor ! It's a bit one step at a time and will ramp up exercise

    Ps when I go via link sent by auto response email it doesn't seem to refresh the page? It's fine on the iPhone though which is Wierd ....
    May 15, 2012
    		 Hysterectomy?
    by: Kerry

    Dear wray
    Thankyou for all your assistance , just read the estrogen dominance & so much of that applied to me - my spotting/bleeding started in January of this year and since I had finished menopause I was confused ? This led to a blood test & then to see a gyno and I had to take ultrasound with me which showed the 19 mm lining - gyno said it was prob a polyp & booked me in for currette etc , my life on a personal level was in freefall & couldn't have been more stressful so I went overseas for a month to try to alleviate that in any way & then returned for procedure & my previous posts tell the story fr there but I thought that all bleeding would cease & only just found out it wouldn't until I either used progesterone OR go hysta route
    Sorry my explanation has been vague but this is all new to me & scary ! Again thanks - will see if I can find the cream u recomend , just wish all bleeding would stop & go back to normal but diet has improved & walking more - we are going into winter but will still get some sun albeit "watery"
    Many symptoms you describe I have had now for a while looking in hindsite , 2012 is perhaps the culmination K
    May 17, 2012
    		 Hysterectomy?
    by: Wray

    Hi Kerry Insulin resistance can be reversed, but high doses of various nutrients are needed, including vitamin D. So I'm glad you've decided to take it, and sit in the sun! I can't explain why your page didn't refresh, it is weird. I don't blame you for being confused about the bleeding. Quite frankly I think it was the stress you've been through. I find many pre-menopausal women bleed out of sync if very stressed, if your lining had not been so thick it would not have happened. You might like to read these comments here about bleeding and stress, although she wasn't menopausal. The bleeding will stop, particularly if you use enough progesterone, and take the 2000mg/day NAC. Even in menopause things can go awry, particularly if stressed. It's not only progesterone that drops, but vitamin D too, and neurotransmitters etc. So I hope you come right soon. Take care Wray
    Oct 12, 2012
    		 post menopause use of progesterone cream
    by: michelle

    Hi,
    I'm 56. I has a hysterectomy 9 years ago and opted to keep my overeies. I have used HRT and finsihed this 2 years ago.
    Until earlier this year I did not notice significant changes, although now I havegreatly reduced libido, fluid retention and weight gain. I wonder if I am able to make use of the progesterone cream or am I now too old to benefit? Thanks
    Oct 13, 2012
    		 post menopause use of progesterone cream
    by: Wray

    Hi Michelle You're never too old to use progesterone, or too young for that matter. We've had mothers of three month old babies using it to calm them. Our fat cells continue to secrete oestrogen to the day we die. Oestrogen causes cells to proliferate, including fat cells. One reason why as we get older we gain weight, there is no corresponding secretion of progesterone from fat cells. Also the menopausal ovary is an androgen producing organ, see here. The abdominal weight gain, or 'middle age spread' so many middle aged women get is caused by excess testosterone, it increases visceral fat, see here. Progesterone does suppress both hormones if enough is used. If bound to SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) testosterone becomes inactive, progesterone raises levels of SHBG, see here, so preventing the rise of free testosterone. SHBG drops if sugars are eaten, even those found in all grains, legumes, dairy and sweet starchy fruits and vegetables. Fructose, sucrose and glucose, reduce SHBG by 80, 50 and 40% respectively, see here. Thereby allowing testosterone to rise. It's best to avoid all the foods and sugars mentioned. I've just done a web page on libido, but it's not up yet. I wish it was, as you're the 4th person complaining about this in the past week! There's strong evidence from studies that in fact it's not testosterone which increases it, but progesterone. Anecdotal of course, but we have many men using it to good affect. Dopamine is another vital nutrient, in fact it appears likely that it's the main reason behind high or low libido. Libido drops if dopamine is low, prolactin high. Dopamine drops with stress, plus high prolactin suppresses dopamine. Progesterone suppresses prolactin, whereas oestrogen stimulates it's production. The progesterone receptors are needed by dopamine. You could try taking the amino acid tyrosine, the precursor to dopamine. There's info about it on our Anxiety page. Continued below.
    Oct 13, 2012
    		 post menopause use of progesterone cream part 2
    by: Wray

    Hi Michelle Finally the fluid retention is caused by oestrogen, see here, here, here and here. Progesterone is an excellent diuretic, so good it's now given to Traumatic Brain Injury victims to prevent oedema forming. If interested in using progesterone, please use enough. I recommend 100-200mg/day or more, dependant on symptoms. For more info on it's use, please see our page on Menopause. Take care Wray
    Oct 13, 2012
    		 HYSTER DECISION
    by: kerry

    hi again wray

    after much deliberating and making a huge mistake of taking the primulet hormone tabs that completely stuffed my system up i am now feeling physically "normal" again and i signed to consent to having the hyster , i am still not happy about it and have lost over 33 kgs since the start of all of this debarcle in feb this year (thats about 73 lbs in your system btw)
    bleeding stopped finally and i am due to have the op in november and am freaking out to put it mildly as i feel ok in myself and am only going on what the gyno says here but she did offer me the option of having another currette and she wanted to insert a mirena which after this horror with progestin tab i am loathe to do so just not sure where to turn now with this and most friends and others who have had the op for various reasons etc are suggesting i should go with the operation - my inner sense says where does this all end?

    bit like when we take our car in for repairs ! we go on the best advice given but how do we know when it will all end , it is a business afterall :(
    Oct 14, 2012
    		 HYSTER DECISION
    by: Wray

    Hi Kerry Well I'm very sad, dismayed in fact you've opted for the hyst. I still don't know why they suggested it! The heavy bleeding does stop with progesterone, please consider it. Plus the other nutrients I mentioned. I don't know why you took the progestin either, that would stuff up your system. It's evident you are very short of progesterone, taking a progestin would lower it further. As I said in another reply, the Mirena releases a progestin into the system, not what you want. A hyst is a toss up, some women are fine after it, some not, rather like Russian roulette I feel! Wonderful you've lost so much weight, I do use kilos, have done for years now. The old system was so cumbersome! As with teaspoons too, such an awkward thing to work with, ml are so much easier. Take care Wray
    Oct 14, 2012
    		 re hyster
    by: kerry

    hi again Wray

    no one is more dismayed than me i can assure you and if it wasnt the pure anxiety that is pushing me towards this i simply would not do it - i have no way of being sure of how much or if the hyperplasia is changing ?
    i live in sydney australia and there are places here that make up natural progesterone creams but gyno said i couldnt ever get enough of it on me to change what i have - i am feeling fine now that i got off those dreadful hormones and i guess the other factor is my age (59) that made me think maybe i should just do what the surgeon suggests but i did get a 2nd opinion from one of the laproscopic gurus here in sydney and he said the % change of cells was more like 50%

    he was very conservative so i didnt even broach trying alternative therapies with him and he also seemed a but judgemental ? most ob/gyn surgeons here seem to run fertility clinics or niche area endoscopic ops so they prob take a dim view of other approaches

    there is still time for me to back out of this and trust me its on my mind - i will continue to give it thought and agree with you that its a roll of the dice with a hyster and i am so scared that they just keep finding other things to rip out , the other thing that fightens me is the thought of ongoing currettes and general anaesthetics as the option she gave me , ill go back over this site to find others who may have been right where I am now

    thanks
    Oct 16, 2012
    		 re hyster
    by: Wray

    Hi Kerry Ah now I understand, it's the hyperplasia you're worried about. That's so easily checked via a pap smear. You should find if using high amounts of progesterone that it reverses. A naturopath who's prescribed our cream for 15 years first used progesterone to treat herself for hyperplasia. Needless to say it worked! And of course you can get enough on, if you use a cream which is higher in strength than most currently available. Interestingly Australian doctors usually prescribe troches, but these are not a good Delivery system. Please read through our page on How to use progesterone cream. It gives advice on amounts etc. Another page you could look through is the one we have on Menopause. Please have a vitamin D test done. Levels in Australia are very low, due to the daft cover up policy the government has, see here, here and here. Vitamin D is a potent anti-proliferating agent, as is progesterone, it inhibits mitosis. Whereas oestrogen is a potent mitogen. I have done a page on Progesterone and Vitamin D as the synergism fascinated me. Has anyone thought to check your progesterone to oestrogen ratio? Or checked your vitamin D levels? For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth and Birmingham Hospital. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml (175-250nmol/L) and not the 30ng/ml (75nmol/L) most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although recent research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
    Oct 17, 2012
    		 hyperplasia comment
    by: kerry

    hi Wray

    i guess i wasnt explaining myself very well and prob rambled a bit on reflection of my previous messages but i have been told that the only way to check the cells was by having a hysteroscopy every 6 months (this was the option to having a hysterectomy) which as you know requires a general anaesthetic and gyno wanted to insert a mirena when doing that - as i said after the recent hormone horror i wont be doing the IUD road but to my knowledge and after looking up copious medical journals online a pap smear would not be able to determine what is going on inside the uterus , if only it was that easy i would be opting for that believe me

    after having a blood test earlier this year my d levels were low and i have been taking 1000 u each day but perhaps this is too low? i can easily remedy that but will await your response

    once again tks
    Oct 18, 2012
    		 hyperplasia comment
    by: Wray

    Hi Kerry Yes I was confused, as I thought you had cervical hyperplasia, not endometrial hyperplasia. Although I've now re-read our correspondence and you did say that, apologies! Progesterone can help that too, see here, here and here. So it's certainly worth a try, before having the op. Many women get a thickened lining when in menopause. Contrary to what we're lead to believe, it's not a lack of oestrogen we have, but often an excess in ratio to progesterone. This oestrogen (oestrone) is secreted by our fat cells, but there's no corresponding secretion of progesterone. Please could you clear up another confusion I have, I've been doing some more re-reading! You say the bleeding started in Feb this year, are you still bleeding? Re the vitamin D, you're not taking anywhere near enough. The minimum dose should be 5000iu's per day. I think I said your weight could well be due to a lack of this, see here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth and Birmingham Hospital. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml (175-250nmol/L) and not the 30ng/ml (75nmol/L) most labs and doctors regard as adequate. Continued below.
    Oct 18, 2012
    		 hyperplasia comment Part 2
    by: Wray

    Hi Kerry The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although recent research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Please have a test done. Vitamin D is the most anti-proliferative nutrient there is. I feel you could take 10,000iu's until your level is up high. In helping another women recently with abnormal bleeding, I found a fascinating paper on taurine. A lack of taurine is found in dysfunctional uterine bleeding, cystic endometrial hyperplasia, fibromyoma (fibroids), and endometrial cancer, see here. So that's certainly worth taking too, about 2000mg/day, possibly more. This is an excellent explanation on hyperplasia, see here. Although I would never recommend a progestin, as they do, for any bleeding or hyperplasia, as progesterone is very effective. Another potent antioxidant is NAC, I think I mentioned this to you further up. All these nutrients are worth trying before having an op. Take care Wray
    Oct 18, 2012
    		 hyperplasia response
    by: kerry

    hi Wray

    we may be on the same time frame at this moment depending on servers lol

    yes you have the story complete now and i really will up my dosage of D well and truly as today i just got so cranky about the whole thing i made up my mind to pull the plug on the op and if gyno really pushes me i will agree to another hysteroscopy with NO MIRENA !

    i am at my wits end and cant reconcile to having the op anyway and i figure me, my uterus and my simple and complex cells are just gonna have to deal with this from another perspective

    grrrrr just fed up with thinking about it all and need to go learn how to meditate - i will try what ever it takes now to avoid the op and will go find some cream over here ?
    Oct 18, 2012
    		 hyperplasia response
    by: kerry

    to answer your quetsion re bleeding , lets go back to february when i first had some spotting

    i didnt think much about this at the time but when i went to visit my gp i told him about it and he suggested that this needs to be looked at by a gyno as ANY post menopausal bleeding requires looking into, then i had a crisis in my life and just took off overseas for a month with minor bleeding continuting (i put that down to stress then btw) i came back to sydney in april and saw the gyno and she said it was probably a polyp and she could remove it and that would prob be the end of it (i took an ultrasound in showing my endometrium at 19mm)

    so on april 30 i had the currette/hysteroscopy and she removed a large polyp - pathology results came back a week later showing simple and complex cells in both the lining and the polyp so she recomended that for my age etc she thought it best i have a hysterectomy

    this just sent me into total shock waves as i have said in earlier posts and for the past 5 months have been prevaricating about the whole issue which is when i found this site and up till when i took the hormone pills i didnt have any bleeding

    so in august i agreed to go on the alternative option she gave me which was try hormones and that was a BIG MISTAKE , i only took the pills and that stuffed up my system big time and only now feel normal again and there is now NO BLEEDING - i had plenty of bleeding when i took the progestins though which also shocked me coz i thought they were there to stop bleeding and thin out the lining - bear in mind the endo lining went down to 9.2mm after the currette but she said that wasnt enough and i could get down to the size of twiggy and i couldnt reverse the complex cells (wouldnt be a drama if they were just simple ones apparently)

    now here i am in october with a hysterectomy booked for november and i am about to cancel it

    i say again i am not bleeding now at all and will increase the vitamin d dosage prior to another hysteroscopy (boy i hope if anyone else reads this they know the diff between the 2 procedures lol)

    does that make sense? let me know

    ta
    Oct 18, 2012
    		 hyperplasia response
    by: Wray

    Hi Kerry I see you must live in Sydney, judging by the 'I came back to Sydney', so it's 11.20pm with you now. I have several clocks all ticking away with the major stock market centres. I live in Cape Town, South Africa, so the time is now 2.20pm. This is why I also understand kgs, as South Africa has used them for years now. I do understand your frustrations, plus the confusion too. I'm such a believer in the body being able to heal itself, given the nutrients to do so, I would rather this route was taken. But of course can't speak for anyone else, we all have our own journeys, some far more difficult than others! I have no doubt that the change in the cells was due to the stress you've been through. Too many studies show how stress causes a cascade of free radicals to be produced, which in turn causes inflammatory cytokines to be produced, and ......well many diseases occur. They've even found depression is caused by an inflammatory response. The progestins are normally given to prevent bleeding, but they in turn can cause harm. If interested we do have a page on Contraceptives. I've found it's the MMPs which actually cause us to bleed, progesterone does inhibit them, but so too does NAC. The taurine of course is low in dysfunctional bleeding and endo hyperplasia, none of these are taken into account by the medical profession. And now I know you live in Australia, your vitamin D will be low. That daft policy of covering up has done much harm, see here, here and here. If you can please have a test done, it's best to find your level to know how much you need to take. But I feel it should be at least 10,000iu's per day. Stress drops vitamin D levels, as it does progesterone. In fact all the antioxidant amino acids drop with stress, and these are what you need to counter the hyperplasia. If it helps you we do supply many women in Australia with our cream. I've had coms with some of the women there, and by all accounts the creams there are not good, the ingredients are what concerns me. If interested have a look at the ingredients here. Take care Wray
    Oct 18, 2012
    		 hyperplasia comment
    by: kerry

    ok that makes sense about the kgs lol as i thought you were in the US for some reason

    i find your site incredibly informative and only found it by chance - btw i am originally from perth and our country has this policy of cover up as we have the thinnest ozone layer on the planet so our uv concentration is very high and we can burn easily but i was born and bred here and spent a lot of time on the beach as a child and i imagine you would have aswell?

    back to all this and i will look into getting some of your cream but not sure how it will transport? my psych told me about some pharmacist here that makes up a natural one but will download your info of concentration etc and see if it comes up to par

    i believe not all pharmacists make it up but my gp said he would do me a script so i dont have opposition there and the surgeon is quite holistic luckily will be ok with all of this so i am fortunate i didnt see a male coz they can be quite aggressive about this , that would have made me angry on top of everything

    i think gyno can book me in for hysteroscopy fairly quickly and ill get it done and see if she can do a blood test at the same time as i want to check the D results (as i pointed out they were low in feb and will put them here for your comment)

    serum 25 (oh) vitamin D 34*nmol/L

    that was the result on my blood test in feb and as per the guide it says that is mildly defficient not marked so what do you think?
    ill start 5000u of D today and go get some more capsules

    btw if you are on skype i am geminikerryh

    once again thanks for all your helpful information and will see just how fast i can get some results on these cells and wouldnt it be great if those complex ones just vanished? then id be off the hook entrirely :)

    cheers
    Oct 19, 2012
    		 hyperplasia comment
    by: Wray

    Hi Kerry I suppose everyone thinks we're in the States, but no we live here. But as most of our customers are in the States it made sense to base everything there. They also have the most efficient fulfilment facilities too. So there's usually not too much delay in getting the cream to distant lands. Thanks for the kind words about the site, we do try! Please read those papers when you have a chance, about how low vitamin D levels are in Australia. It's not a good policy. I love the sea, but it has to be a tropical one before I can swim! Cape Town has freezing water normally, so I rarely swim. It has a similar climate to Perth. We send the cream to dozens of women in Australia with no problems. But if you can get one locally so much the better. Please check the amount of progesterone you're getting for your money. And if you want to find out if the ingredients are good or not, Skin Deep is an excellent site. It has a field into which you put the name of the ingredient, and will then come up with a hazard rating, and other comments. You are lucky with your doctors, the uphill some women have is appalling. Your vitamin D is shockingly low! It doesn't surprise me now about your hyperplasia. It should be no less than 125nmol/L, better if it's between 175-250nmol/L, mine is currently 230nmol/L. I have it checked every 6 months or so. Apologies, I forgot to give you the info on vitamin D, see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth and Birmingham Hospital. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml (175-250nmol/L) and not the 30ng/ml (75nmol/L) most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although recent research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. The first two sites are an excellent resource, the third is for blood test kits. And yes it would be wonderful if your errant cells were brought into line again. Take care Wray
    Nov 19, 2012
    		 THANKS TO WRAY ..
    by: kerry

    hi all i have finally got it together to write some words of thanks to Wray who works so hard to give us her very best advice and helpful links not to mention answers to our questions that doctors and surgeons rarely answer but progress is being made slowly but surely because we women should stand up and ask more questions and if you dont like the answer go find another doctor or ob/gyno who will have more time to give

    yesterday i was scheduled to have my hysterectomy and after reading links from wray and upping my vitamin D levels and also losing substantial weight i am now off the hook so to speak

    as per my previous posts i had simple&complex endo hyperplasia and started the year off with post menopausal spotting and I am 59 years old so the doc sent me off to a gyno who luckily gave me time after my first hysteroscopy - fast forward to october 29 and 32 kilos lighter and taking doses of d caps my 2nd hysteroscopy came back completely BENIGN in both lining and the 2 small polyps that were found !

    that result is astounding and rare so am very pleased and my next apointment is in april next year so will even less weight on me and hopefully a normal endo lining thickness i might just have completely licked this thing and might keep my uterus !

    tks Wray for all your help and support on these forums - I know this is not a "one size fits all" but if anyone out there has my symptoms pls try natural progesterone and vitamin d and also as per a previous post , taking progestins only messed me up totally :( very very hideous experience

    cheers from here in sydney australia and power to us women !!!!!

    Kerry
    Nov 23, 2012
    		 THANKS TO WRAY ..
    by: Wray

    Hi Kerry Thanks for telling us all this! So delighted, and I'm sure if you continue with the vitamin D and progesterone, your April appointment will be clear too. That 32 kg loss needs a medal too! For the benefit of people who still use pounds, that's just over 70lbs! I think you should tell us all how you did it. Bless you for the kind words too! Take care Wray
    Nov 30, 2012
    		 How I stopped hotflashes rapidly
    by: Terry

    I just turned 54 and had my last period in August 2012. A few weeks later I began having serious hot flashes, no sleep, confusion, etc. I don't go to doctors-have had some really bad experiences, so I use the internet to research everything that I can.

    What doctors (and a lot of websites) don't tell you unless you really dig into archives is that that it is the lack of progesterone that actually causes the hotflashes. Estrogen and progesterone are the main female hormones, but progesterone largely controls the level of estrogen in the body. As soon as that last egg drops (last period), your progesterone level can fall rapidly. Progesterone is only produced in 3 places in the body-the uterus, the ovaries, and the adrenal glands.
    Giving women artificial estrogen or plant estrogens will stop the hot flashes, but will cause you a lot of problems that you can't see until later, including rapid aging, wrinkles and weight gain. This is what worked for me in a matter of days:
    Whole cheese, milk, and walnuts are really helpful to naturally raise the levels, but there are 2 vitamins that ABSOLUTELY worked for me to level out the hormones and stop flashes, and basically return me to normal within days-vitamin E (natural, not synthetic) and zinc. (1000mg E and 100mg zinc 3x per day
    Nov 30, 2012
    		 Stopping My Hotflashes, cont.
    by: Terry

    I wanted to add one other thing that helped me immensely-Vitamin B-5 (capsules, not tablets). I take 500 mg. several times per day. This vitamin works on your adrenal glands (that produce progesterone) and also produce cortisol if they're stressed-which will cause you to gain weight easily.

    For the first few days of my hot flashes I went on kind of a South Beach diet-high fat and high protein. Largely the reason the South Beach or Atkins causes weight loss especially in women, is that it increases progesterone, which cannot be produced without fat. Also, progesterone is a natural diuretic, so one loses water fast on it. It is not a sustainable or healthy diet, though. Now I eat mostly veggies, meat, bread, cheese, milk etc.

    Finally-EXERCISE! I know we get limited as we age, but I got a good mini trampoline and I love it. You will get in shape faster and it's easy on the joints. I hope my experiences help! Have a great day!
    Dec 01, 2012
    		 How I stopped hotflashes rapidly
    by: Wray

    Hi Terry You are so right, the research I did too lead me to believe it is a lack of progesterone which causes Hot Flushes. Stress too, but this does drop progesterone levels. Unlike you they hit me while I was still in Peri-menopause, progesterone stopped mine in ten days, and I haven't had another, 16 years later. Interesting your experiments with the vitamins, particularly the zinc. Oestrogen suppresses zinc, raises copper, which in turn suppresses zinc. Progesterone does the reverse. So taking zinc you were aiding the progesterone, lowering copper, which would affect oestrogen levels. And of course B5, the stress vitamin is always needed if stressed. And I found nothing more stressful than going through P-M! And of course exercise. Take care Wray
    Dec 16, 2012
    		 What should I do
    by: Ami

    Hello all, I am 40, I've always had heavy periods. I was diagnosed with fibroids and my doctor wanted to give me a hysterectomy about 2 years ago, I didn't want it. I told him I would try holistic remedies. He said it shouldn't be a big deal if I didn't want any more children. So, I told him I did. I still may have another. I changed my eating habits and they shrunk. My problem is my cycles are heavy again. I've read some of the advice Wray (you're wonderful) has given. Please tell me if this is best for me: Avoiding sugar, fried foods and coffee.
    Exercising and eating walnuts, cherries, wild yams and whole grains. I also read to take amino acid N-acetyl cysteine, where would I purchase this?
    Also, if my fibroids are back, would that cause complications with a pregnancy or the baby?
    Dec 19, 2012
    		 What should I do
    by: Wray

    Hi Ami I'm delighted by changing your foods the Fibroids shrank. To say it isn't a big deal to have a hyst is wrong, it's major surgery. Take a look through this site, Dr West wrote a book called the 'Hysterectomy Hoax', as he doesn't believe it's necessary for fibroids. All sugars should be avoided, even those found in all grains, legumes, processed milk and sweet starchy fruits and vegetables. Fructose, sucrose and glucose, reduce SHBG by 80, 50 and 40% respectively, see here. Thereby allowing testosterone to rise. If bound to SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) testosterone becomes inactive, progesterone raises levels of SHBG, see here, so preventing the rise of free testosterone. It's best to avoid all the foods and sugars mentioned. Wine and beers contain carbs, so it's best to avoid those too. Sugars and large meals also drop progesterone levels, see here. Plus insulin drops levels too, see here. This means SHBG also drops, another vicious cycle. With a rise in free testosterone, oestrogen also rises. Although fibroids are caused by oxidative stress, leading to Inflammation, oestrogen exacerbates them. It's an excitatory, inflammatory hormone, causing cells to proliferate. Walnuts and cherries are fine, but avoid the yams and grains. We do have a page on Nutrition you could look through. Heavy bleeding can be controlled naturally, by taking antioxidant nutrients which reverse the oxidative stress and inflammation you have. You are right about the NAC, at least 2000mg/day should be taken, 2000mg/day taurine and a minimum of 5000iu's vitamin D. Plus a minimum of 200mg/day progesterone. The NAC inhibits the MMPs which cause the lining of the uterus to break down, there's more info on our page about Menstruation. Taurine is low in dysfunctional uterine bleeding, see here. Continued below
    Dec 19, 2012
    		 What should I do Part 2
    by: Wray

    Hi Ami Vitamin D stops cells proliferating, it's vital for the normal functioning of all cells. And progesterone suppresses the excess oestrogen. All the above are potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. LEF stock the NAC and taurine. For more info on vitamin D, levels, test kits, stockists etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth and Birmingham Hospital. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml (175-250nmol/L) and not the 30ng/ml (75nmol/L) most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although recent research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Please have a test done, vitamin D can reduce fibroid growth, see here, here and here. We do have a page on Pregnancy you could look through. Fibroids can cause complications, if bleeding is heavy the embryo will not embed in the uterine lining. It's best to shrink the fibroids first using the above nutrients. Thanks for the kind words! Take care Wray
    Feb 07, 2013
    		 Severe post menopausal enometriosis? pain
    by: Liz

    Dear Wray, I've been sitting here since 4.30 this morning reading your site, tring to take my mind of the pain. It's the first I've seen that actually seems to address problems.
    I am 53 and menopausal / post menopausal. I had an eptopic pregnancy at 19 and was diagnosed with endometriotis when 17. I was told at the time that 'you'll just have to live with it'. Nothing done since.

    I have been having really severe abdominal pain for over a year now. I spent boxing day 2011 in emergency and the maximum amount of morphine they could give me didn't work. Ended up being knocked out and sent to Cairns Base Hospital.
    No one had any idea what it was but the consensus of opinion was that it was gastritis, "that's what we label most unknown abdominal pain".
    I was put on omeprozole, gave up alcohol, processed foods and chocolate etc. I've lost 30kg which is the good part.
    However I continued to have severe abdominal pains, but not to hospital level. I am now down to an attack every 2-3 weeks and have only been to emergency twice, so it's not as severe. It is however debilitating and I'm always waiting for the next 'big one'.
    I stopped the omeprozole after about 6 months as it obviously wasn't doing anything.
    Since researching on the internet, I now think it may be from the endometriotis, even though I am menopausal - but I don't know. (that's become my catch cry "I Don't Know". I am in the process of finding another doctor who may actually take an interest and find out what it is.
    I am, in the meantime, using a natural progesterone cream and since reading your site will be getting hormone level testing. My vitamin D is low and I'll be addressing that.
    Could you please clarify for me how much progesterone creame I should be using? As in a teaspoon twice a day, I can't figure out the gram thing in a usable way.
    Also is there anything else I can do to actually know if it is from the endometriotis or not? It'll be months before I can get a new doctor and have a stack of new tests done and I'm tired.
    Is there anything else I can do?
    Thank you, Liz
    Feb 09, 2013
    		 Severe post menopausal enometriosis? pain
    by: Wray

    Hi Liz Thanks for the kind words about the site. Why did they check your gut, and not look for the endo? And give you a drug for ulcers? Progesterone is a potent analgesic, it's an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant too. But for the severe pain of Endometriosis I've found at least 500mg/day is needed. MMPs play a big role too, see here and here. These are enzymes involved in tissue remodelling, but if in excess they are very destructive. Oestrogen stimulates their production, progesterone inhibits them. So too does NAC (N-acetyl cysteine), see here and here. Endo is caused by oxidative stress, so large amounts of antioxidants are needed to reverse it. NAC is a potent antioxidant, see here. Vitamin D another, I'm pleased you're addressing that. Please make sure you use sufficient, too little won't raise levels high enough to help. Vitamin D is another natural analgesic. If you do have a gut problem and it's not endo, the vitamin D and the progesterone will help. Glutamine is excellent, it's the only thing the cells lining the gut can use for repair and healing. Try taking 4000mg/day in some water and see if that helps. It does heal ulcers if that's what you have, although I doubt it. You might like to read this page here. Giving out drugs in a hit and miss fashion much as with you. She also had to change doctors who finally discovered endo. Continued below
    Feb 09, 2013
    		 Severe post menopausal enometriosis? pain Part 2
    by: Wray

    Hi Liz Unfortunately a laparoscopy is necessary to find endo, no simple blood test. Although this would pick up inflammatory markers, it wouldn't tell them what was causing the Inflammation. It's not possible to tell you how much cream you should be using as you don't give me the name of the brand. If as I suspect it's one of the standard low strengths, i.e. 1.6% or 16mg/ml of cream, then you would need 31ml or 6 teaspoons to get 500mg/day progesterone. The teaspoon must measure 5 ml, a stirring spoon is no good, these vary in size between 3 to 6 ml. If you used our cream, Natpro, then you would need 15ml or 3 tsp, it's double the strength. Please get your vitamin D up very high, progesterone too, plus take large doses of antioxidants. Whether you have endo or an inflamed gut these will all help. Take care Wray
    Apr 01, 2013
    		 There are foods that contain progesterone
    by: Anonymous

    I suffer from fibroids, its very painful, very difficult. I take progesterone shots to regulate and stop the continued flow, or over heavy flow (periods). All the foods I craved and ate were foods I found high in estrogen and also foods the block estrogen. Eggs, onions(block), cherries (both, yeast, apples, garlic, olives, potatoes and so on. My husband cooked a cake and I was in soo much pain after I ate it I am finding out it was the yeast he used, I love beats they are high in estrogen. I couldn't believe it, I drank a cherry coke I was in soo much pain after drinking it I couldn't believe it. I have found these food agitate my fibroids. I mean there are more foods than this, I love beer, however it has hops in it, these things agitate and increase estrogen my body, in women's bodies. I am finding out why some women are baby makers and others have a harder time, some of our systems are off balance with estrogen and progesterone while others women's body are balanced. I don't eat yams at all, I wondered why I ate eggs the way I did, love them, its the yoke of the egg, I see now my body was trying to fix it self through foods to balance it self off egg yokes are found to have progestin and estrogen, I mean I love eggs. do not eat a lot of read meats or fish these foods have progestin, don't drink milk. These foods help build progestin. When my doctors found I started having fibroids they should have check my progestin levels they did not. Women's wombs have been under attack and many women have had their wombs removed because of over sized fibroids as large as a 9 month baby. There must be better treatment for women in shrinking these things and balancing them off, than just taking their wombs and not addressing the real problem at hand. Our foods have injected hormones in them which have aided in this off balance in women's system. I will not allow them to take my womb without a fight. There is a better way.
    Apr 02, 2013
    		 There are foods that contain progesterone
    by: Wray

    Hi there Fibroids are caused by oxidative stress, so large amounts of antioxidants are needed to reverse them. In particular vitamin D, this shrinks fibroids, see here, here, here and here. Please have a test done. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth and Birmingham Hospital. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml (175-250nmol/L) and not the 30ng/ml (75nmol/L) most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although recent research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. There are no foods which contain progesterone, unless one is prepared to eat a placenta. If an animal is given hormones then there is every possibility that they are present, but it will be synthetic hormones. Take care Wray
    May 14, 2013
    		 colocasia and turmeric
    by: Anonymous


    "Chembu contains natural PROGESTERONE. It also catalyses the human body's production of Progesterone"
    "TURMERIC containing Circumin is a quantum food. No kitchen in Kerala , nay-India- is without Turmeric."
    May 18, 2013
    		 colocasia and turmeric
    by: Wray

    Hi there With respect to the captain, he doesn't really know much about progesterone in food. Or it's metabolism, no plant is capable of catalysing a hormone. This is governed by enzymes in strict accordance to a certain protocol. This is a good chart to look through by Genova Diagnostics. Only recently, 1968, has the progesterone molecule been found in plants, and in such infinitesimally small amounts it won't make one atom of difference to the human ingesting it. You might like to see a complete breakdown of the taro plant (Colocasia esculenta), or as it's called in India, chembu, see the USDA plant database. It contains none according to this, but possibly they weren't looking for it. If found it would be similar to other plants. For instance 100gm of apple seeds contains an average of 385.0 μgrams of cholesterol and 50.0 μgrams of progesterone. The leaf of another plant contained only 160 to 400ng/kg progesterone. Women normally make 5 to 20ng/ml during the luteal phase only, less than 1ng/ml during the follicular phase, which is the same as men. A nanogram is 1 trillionth of a kilogram or 1 millionth of a milligram, or 1 thousandth of a microgram. So 160 to 400ng/kg are amounts which are meaningless if a human wants to benefit from eating a food containing it. These are the papers here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here. Take care Wray
    Nov 02, 2013
    		 Excessive lengthy bleeding
    by: Tired

    I'm a 37 year old with 3-6 week long bleeding that has many large clots to go along with it!! I have a tired almost drained feeling moodiness and lack of sexual desire that is taking a strain on my marriage. I'll sometimes go a few months with no bleeding also. This has been my case for the course of the past 2 years. Any suggestions on a possible cause?
    Nov 10, 2013
    		 can progesterone cream lead to cancer?
    by: 46yrs old&super low prog

    I have heard that the cream can cause cancer. The bottle of the cream I purchased says right on it that it has been known to cause cancer. What are your thoughts on this. I have very low progesterone and my estrogen is fine. I want to balance it so I can loose weight but not at the cost of cancer.
    Nov 12, 2013
    		 Wray are you still about ?
    by: kerry

    I havnt seen wray around for a while and she may be able to answer these comments but just wanted to say that 18 months down the track after taking extra vitamin d I can tell others I am ok - I did have a couple of hysteroscopies along the way that took out some polyps but am still determined not to go under the scalpel for a hysterectomy.

    I know this doesnt answer your question re progesterone but mine was quite low and i have tried to sort this issue by other means like almost removing sugar and losing weight.

    good luck with it all and remember you can take action by alternative methods :)
    Nov 15, 2013
    		 Wray are you still about ?
    by: Wray

    Hi Kerry Thanks for your concern. I haven't been about as I feel burnt out working 7 days a week! I'm now limiting my replies to people who only use the Natpro. I've found I simply can't cope with all the other queries too, our own customers are the most important. Anyone can access the site, we do have many pages of text they can read, and the comments people make, plus we have a search facility too. Take care Wray
    Dec 21, 2013
    		 Progesterone
    by: Dee

    I had a complete hysterectomy in my 20's and I've been on Natural wild yam progesterone cream (transdermal) for years. It seem to do the trick as far as eliminating all menopausal symptoms. I planned to be on it the rest of my life but I just started the Dr. R. Paul St. Amand treatment for fibromyalgia and I have to eliminate all botanicals so I cant take it anymore! I can have soy though...so im searching for alternatives to get natural progesterone in me without all the other botanicals and extracts that are in the creams.
    Jun 04, 2014
    		 Progeterone creme and castor oil
    by: Anonymous

    Hello Wray can you please tell us which progesterone creme (topical) is beneficial to raise levels and whether castor oil packs can raise levels too?
    Jun 04, 2014
    		 One page differs from dozens of others. Who to believe?
    by: Anonymous

    I've been studying up on progesterone. Many sites, some of which cited medical information or studies, stated that there are foods that contain progesterone, such as chicken, lean red meat, nuts, seeds, avocados, and, especially, the yolk of eggs.

    Then, you come along with this "no foods contain it, you cannot get it without eating the placenta" stuff. Hmm ..

    Well, it seems unlikely to me, since I have progesterone in me right now, and, if someone were to kill me and eat me, they would be getting that progesterone from me.

    But, if this is true, upon what evidence is it based? Which scientific studies?

    And, in either case, why are you being so negative? Even if foods do not contain progesterone , in themselves, - which is not a point I have conceded, just saying, even if you could prove it - they provide the building blocks for manufacturing it. That does count for something.

    The egg thing, I have to think you are really wrong about. Essentially, the yolk of the egg is the placenta of the chicken, since it is what sustains the life of the infant chicken until it emerges. So, eating the yolk would be eating the placenta. Therefore to say no foods have progesterone, because, no foods are placenta, is wrong.
    Jun 06, 2014
    		 Cow's Milk Contains Progesterone
    by: Anonymous

    Having just gone through menopause I was really looking for holistic answers to the hot flashes, etc. One of the most helpful things I have done is to drink lots of milk and dairy.

    Increase yogurt, milk, cheese, etc. They do contain progesterone and the hot flashes have subsided. The calcium also helps keep our bones strong.


    Jul 26, 2014
    		 John
    by: Smithd254

    I'm really enjoying the design and layout of your website. It's a very easy on the eyes which makes it much more pleasant for me to come here and visit more often. Did you hire out a designer to create your theme? Excellent work! ccddfebfddebcaff
    Jul 28, 2014
    		 John
    by: Wray

    Hi John Thanks for the kind words, I've passed them on to Mal who is behind the web design. He was, needless to say, delighted! He is also my brother and became fascinated by the internet when it first came out, so began studying it. Not just web design but the all important SEO too. I think his degree in Law and his knowledge of English have had a huge influence on ensuring clarity. Take care Wray
    Oct 16, 2015
    		 Menstruation after 15 days
    by: Anonymous

    What should one do if one is having Menstruation after every 15 days?

    What is the reason behind it?

    How to treat it naturally?
    Nov 13, 2015
    		 Wondering if you have any knowledge about this condition?
    by: Anonymous

    Hi my daughter (14 years old) broke out in hives August 2014 and the next month and the next. Finally, our doctor believed me that it was linked to her period and sent her to a pediatric dermatologist- who actually listened and found through a some research/calls that she likely suffered from Autoimmune Progesterone Dermatitis. Oddly, after he did progesterone testing (on and under the skin) she had no reaction to the progesterone. He was unsure how to proceed and recommended she be put on birth control pills consistently with out the week break to suppress her period. We are desperate and did so, it work fine for 6 months but last week the hives returned worse than ever, she had actual blisters on her hand and feet. We are currently waiting to see an Endocrinologist for further hormone testing.
    Her symptoms are as follows:
    She feels nauseous, then gets hot/cold rushes, then her hands begin to tingle, she feels 'like her skin is on fire', then her skin turns bright red and the hives come, some are raised welts. The hives and welts are very bad for about 5 days then they start to subsided-leaving brown patches all over her. I feel so powerless to help her, if anyone has similar symptoms and has had a different diagnosis or successful treatment, please let me know
    Jul 24, 2016
    		 Osteoporosis
    by: Veronica

    Since Progesterone supports bone growth, I have been looking into ways to overcome my osteoporosis of the lower spine that I was diagnosed with- without using Fosamax. I got some creme to apply every evening that contains about 20mg of Progesterone. Is this amount going to be enough to make a difference and am I going in the right direction. I am fit, postmenepausal, 61, hiker, have read Dr Gaby's book and take recommended supplements. I want to increase bone mass. What can I do? Thank You.

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