Let's talk about progesterone...
Progesterone (4-pregnene-3, 20-dione or P4 in this case ) is the “feel good” hormone of pregnancy. I am strictly talking about naturally occurring biologically identical human progesterone – not synthetic progestational agents such as progestin, medroxyprogesterone acetate, or norethisterone – these are not the natural progesterone and are very problematic and side effect intensive (they have almost exactly the opposite side effects when compared to the benefits of natural progesterone).
Known Side Effects From Taking Medroxyprogesterone (Provera® or MPA):
MPA is a teratogen and cannot be used in pregnancy.
MPA increases cholesterol and increases risk of heart disease.
MPA increases foam cell formation, endothelial inflammation, plaque formation, strokes and heart attacks.
MPA is carcinogenic and causes breast cancer (see PEPI trial).
MPA has no effect on osteoporosis (i.e. does not help).
MPA is associated with side effects of increased bleeding, bloating, and depression.
MPA provides a serum progesterone level of zero – it is immeasurable as progesterone.
Why? MPA IS NOT PROGESTERONE!
What does all of this mean? Synthetic progestins are not safe – period. The literature is clear on this whether used in a birth control pill or otherwise, THEY ARE NOT SAFE. I rarely, if ever, will give them in my practice.
