Progesterone cream and contraceptive implants

by Sara
(Australia)

Hi Wray, I'm 36 years old and until recently had a copper IUD inserted. I have also been using Natpro which has successfully managed the migraines I get with my period. I recently had to (very reluctantly) have the IUD removed due to a massive infection and have been advised not to have it reinserted.

I am now faced with the dilemma of which form of contraceptive to use. I am considering using an implant called Implanon, which is a progestogen only device.

Am I able to use this and continue to use Natpro? Many thanks.

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Progesterone cream and contraceptive implants

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Jan 30, 2010
 Progesterone cream and contraceptive implants
by: Wray

Hi Sara. So pleased the Natpro has helped the migraines. Pity about the copper IUD, it's the only one I would recommend. The one they want to give you contains as you say a progestogen, not good news. You might like to see this web page. And this.

The problem with any oestrogen/progestogen contraceptive is they stop ovarian function, in particular by suppressing ovulation. If ovulation does not occur no progesterone is made by the ovaries, so levels drop. It is possible to keep them up by supplementing, but the possible adverse side affects of the implant must be taken into account. There are only two other safe options, one is using progesterone prior to ovulation, the other is following your monthly cycle, best done using a mini microscope. Dr Dalton had this to say about progesterone contraception: "Withdrawal as a method of contraception is very unreliable (and bad for the nerves!). So, apart from progesterone contraception, this leaves condoms - male or female - the diaphragm (or 'Dutch Cap') and vasectomy."

Progesterone is as safe a contraceptive as the intra-uterine device or the progestogen-only pill, if used as follows: Start on Day 8 of the cycle with a low dose of progesterone, and keep it up until menstruation or - for PMS sufferers - the day when you start on the bigger, anti-PMS dose. A daily dose of 100 mg (half a 200 mg suppository) or a 400 mg suppository are equally effective. (Many women who will use 400 mg of progesterone two to six times daily from ovulation onwards prefer to take one 400 mg suppository in the follicular phase rather than having to get 200 mg suppositories as well.)

Progesterone contraception for PMS...
* A low dose (100-200 mg) of progesterone from Day 8 of the cycle
* Increase to optimum progesterone dosage at ovulation
* Continue progesterone until menstruation.

Once a Month, Katharina Dalton

Take care, Wray

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