Natural Progesterone

There is increasing interest in the use of ‘natural’ progesterone therapy in the form of cream for the relief of menopausal symptoms. The information available in books, articles and on the Internet offers conflicting positions and can be confusing.
As a health worker I have concerns about progesterone creams becoming the latest fad in the management of menopause. The claims and counter-claims are reminiscent of the hormone ‘replacement’ therapy debate. This article will outline the role of progesterone in our reproductive lives and the theory behind the use of ‘natural’ progesterone products in menopause.