Learning about natural progesterone

by Caroline
(Gloucester, UK)

Thank you for this information which makes me feel empowered to move forward with seven years of health problems. At age 41 I was diagnosed with epilepsy; even though I saw a gynaecologist about difficult periods two eminent neurologists have ignored my attempts to make a connection.

After six years of epilepsy medication and only intermittent improvement it was suggested my 'seizures' were psychological. Six months counselling followed with a wonderful counsellor; I am more confident and a better communicator but still very unwell. Following mid-cycle bleeding my GP prescribed Norethisterone (which I now realise is synthetic progesterone) without even seeing me. Feeling sure something was not right I booked 'well woman' screening. Fortunately nothing sinister presented though I am scheduled for endometrial biopsy and hysteroscopy to double check. I learned though that high estrogen levels/low progesterone can significantly increase your cancer risk. The doctor at this screening who was an excellent listener and clear communicator (very rare in my experience) queried whether the Norethisterone would be doing me any good. I persisted for another 2 days feeling I should but did some research.

Now I know why I have had more seizures this week than ever before and horrendous headaches. I know I have the information behind me now to demand hormone testing and try natural progesterone. I'm writing this to persuade any woman with seizures or who feels persistently exhausted after a 'good night's sleep' to check out hormones and resist ill thought through responses from GP's.