Lowered progesterone and started bleeding

by Judy
(Maryland)

I have been menopausal for 2 years (no period). I started using Natpro 200mg since December 2010 and have had success with getting rid of the estrogen dominance symptoms.

I thought it would be a great time to reduce my 200mg (2/3 t twice a day down to 1/2 t twice a day). To my surprise, I began seeing a brownish blood that is getting redder now and has been around so far for 3 days. Is this because of the reduction in the progestereone? As soon as I saw this (and it was immediate - I had only used my first 1/2 t), I upped my dose for my second dosage that very night back up to the 2/3 t.

I am worried and wondering if this is normal or should I go see a doctor since I haven't bled in 2 years and now after trying to lower my dose, I am bleeding again.

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Lowered progesterone and started bleeding

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May 13, 2011
 Lowered progesterone and started bleeding
by: Wray

Hi Judy When progesterone levels drop bleeding occurs, even in the early days of Menopause. The amount of oestrogen we produce then is too low for the lining to build each month. But sufficient is made by the last few remaining eggs, and our fat cells, to build a lining over many months. This is normally absorbed back into the body. But by using progesterone, and then lowering the amount, or stopping it, the drop causes the lining to shed. MMPs are enzymes that break down protein. They play a role in the breakdown of endometrial tissues at the end of the menstrual cycle. Oestrogen stimulates MMPs. 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, see here and here. If there is sufficient oestrogen it will stimulate more lining to develop, hence our monthly cycles. But I have found it rarely occurs more than once when in early menopause. Take care Wray

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