Progesterone pills are used for regulating abnormal menstrual cycles as well as for contraception. In this article, you will find information on the exact function of these hormone pills in human body.
Among the three sex hormones found in the human body , viz. progesterone, estrogen and testosterone; progesterone is considered as one of the most important. It is produced in the corpus luteum of the ovaries in females. It is a naturally occurring hormone which is required for having a normal menstrual cycle, and also to prepare the body for a healthy pregnancy. However, sometimes, the body may not be able to produce adequate amounts of progesterone. In that case, progesterone containing pills are prescribed. Let us take a look at the functions and uses of these pills in the body.
What are Progesterone Pills
Although meant for many other uses, these pills are more commonly used for contraception, i.e., as birth control pills. As the name suggests, these are hormone pills that contain the synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. Progestin is the synthetic form of progesterone. The synthetic form of progesterone functions in a similar way as the natural hormone. However, as it is not exactly similar to the natural hormone, there are chances of side effects on taking these hormone pills. These synthetic hormones are also available in the form of a cream.
Progesterone cream is as effective as the pill. The pills are prescribed to women who have disorders related to menstruation and pregnancy, which are caused due to improper levels of progesterone. These pills are available under various brand names like Micronor, Ovrette, Femulen, Nor-QD. Now, let us take a look at some uses of these hormone pills.
What do Progesterone Hormones Pills Do
The progesterone-only pill, also known as mini pill, is a type of birth control pill used for birth control. Unlike other pills, which have a combination of estrogen and progesterone, these pills only have the hormone progesterone. This pill affects the lining and mucus of the uterus and thickens it. Therefore, implantation does not occur and pregnancy is prevented. Mini pills are to be taken daily, at the same time, and in the same doses. Although popularly used, these pills are not as effective as combination pills.
Progesterone hormone pills are mostly used to treat the symptoms of menopause. When menopause phase approaches, the levels of progesterone decrease, while that of estrogen remains constant. This leads to a hormonal imbalance, which can cause certain side effects. These symptoms, or side effects, can be treated by using hormone pills. Pills containing progesterone are also used for the treatment of osteoporosis.
Progesterone pills are also prescribed to women who have problems in conceiving and continuing pregnancy. As mentioned above, the hormone progesterone helps in preparing the uterus for pregnancy. Women who have a difficulty in maintaining pregnancy, or have had experienced a miscarriage are prescribed pills of progesterone. This is because, the hormone keeps the lining of the uterus thick and also aids in implantation. These pills also lessen the chances of miscarriage.
The cells of the lining of the uterus are shed, if implantation does not occur. This shedding is stimulated by progesterone. If the levels of progesterone are low, there is no stimulation for shedding of the lining and hence, women experience disorders of the menstrual cycle. Therefore, having progesterone hormone pills is also helpful in treatment of irregular menstrual cycles or menstrual disorders.
It should be noted that as these pills contain a synthetic hormone, chances of side effects are higher. Therefore, in order to minimize the side effects, it is wise to take any hormone pill only after consulting a doctor. Secondly, the proper dosage should also be followed. Take care!
