Progesterone Blog

Jul 14, 2026

Progesterone May Help Protect Brain Cells in Parkinson's Disease

Progesterone is often thought of as a reproductive hormone, but research continues to reveal that its effects extend far beyond the ovaries and pregnancy. One of its most important roles is in protecting the brain.

In a recent laboratory study, researchers exposed human nerve cells to toxins commonly used to mimic Parkinson's disease. These toxins damage dopamine-producing nerve cells, the same type of cells that gradually die in people with Parkinson's.

When the cells were treated with progesterone before being exposed to the toxins, many more survived. Surprisingly, this protective effect did not occur through the classical progesterone receptors found in the cell nucleus. Instead, progesterone acted through a membrane progesterone receptor called mPRα (PAQR7), located on the cell surface.

Activation of this receptor switched on powerful cell-survival pathways that help cells resist oxidative stress, reduce damage to mitochondria (the cell's energy factories), and prevent the chain of events that normally leads to cell death.

The researchers also tested compounds that selectively activated this membrane receptor. These produced similar protection, whereas drugs that activated the traditional nuclear progesterone receptor had little effect. This suggests that membrane progesterone receptors may play a previously unrecognised role in maintaining healthy brain cells.

Although these findings come from laboratory-grown human cells and not from people with Parkinson's disease, they add to the growing body of evidence showing that progesterone is an important neurosteroid. The brain not only responds to progesterone but also produces it locally, where it helps regulate inflammation, supports myelin formation, protects neurons, and promotes repair after injury.

The study reinforces a broader message that is becoming increasingly clear: progesterone is far more than a reproductive hormone. It is an essential molecule for brain health, with the potential to protect nerve cells against injury, ageing, and neurodegenerative disease.

Study: Progesterone exerts a neuroprotective action in a Parkinson’s disease human cell model through membrane progesterone receptor α (mPRα/PAQR7)

Image credit: Oscar Arias-Carrión1, Maria Stamelou, Eric Murillo-Rodríguez, Manuel Menéndez-González and Ernst Pöppel., CC BY 2.0

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Jun 26, 2026

No period in 6 month, not pregnant and fibroids

Hello, Im 42 and was recently told I have a fibroid and thick uterine lining as well as a fibroid and polyps. Will progesterone help me and how much? Can

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Jun 23, 2026

🌿 Progesterone Application Methods: Pros, Cons, and What Works Best?

Progesterone can be delivered in many forms: injections, IV transfusions, subcutaneous implants, suppositories, vaginal tablets, lozenges (troches), buccal drops, oral capsules, gels, oils, and creams. Each method has its own advantages—and some notable drawbacks.

•Injections and IV transfusions: Effective in emergencies or specific medical scenarios, but not practical for daily use.

•Suppositories, vaginal tablets, and gels: Absorbed well but often limited to local use and can contain additives you may wish to avoid.

•Oral capsules: Easy to take, but much of the hormone is lost during digestion and first-pass metabolism in the liver—meaning less reaches the tissues that need it most.

•Transdermal creams and oils: Absorbed directly through the skin, bypassing the digestive system and liver, and can be used flexibly on the body where needed.

Why Creams Are a Popular Choice:

When applied as a cream, progesterone is absorbed through the skin’s layers and directly into the bloodstream, avoiding the “first-pass effect” of the liver. This means more of the active hormone is available to your body’s tissues—especially where progesterone receptors are abundant, such as the skin, brain, bones, and reproductive organs. Unlike some delivery methods, high-quality creams like Natpro Progesterone Cream can be applied to any area of the body. They are convenient, comfortable, and avoid many of the preservatives and additives found in other forms. Plus, the skin itself is an active hormonal tissue—meaning local benefits may be felt right at the site of application.

When choosing a cream, be sure to look at the supporting ingredients as they can contain harmful substances such as liquid paraffin, parabens, phenoxyethanol, sodium lauryl sulphate, propylene glycol, fragrances, artificial colours and PEG emulsifying waxes, these can contain dioxane, a known carcinogen.

The dose of progesterone is dependant on the amount of the cream used. The strength of the creams vary from 1.5% to 10%.

Creams vs. Oral:

•Oral progesterone: Higher sedative effect (due to rapid conversion to allopregnanolone in the liver), but less hormone reaches peripheral tissues.It’s important to remember that oral progesterone is generally less effective for most symptoms, as much is lost during digestion. If you’re using capsules and not getting the results you hope for, consider discussing transdermal (cream) options with your healthcare provider.

•Transdermal progesterone: Delivers intact hormone directly to tissues, offering steady, natural support without the drawbacks of oral administration, and relieving a wider range of symptoms.For most women, a well-formulated transdermal cream provides effective symptom relief and supports hormonal harmony—without the need for injections, tablets, or complicated routines.

Read more and see the research on our dedicated webpage Progesterone Application Methods.

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Jun 21, 2026

Insomnia

Thank you for all the valuable information!!! But I didn’t get to read a lot about severe insomnia…Since taking 200 mg progesterone I am unable to sleep

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Jun 18, 2026

Progesterone Shortages: Why Growing Demand Reflects a Long-Overdue Shift in Women's Health _ Part 2

Natural Progesterone and Synthetic Progestins Are Not the Same:

Perhaps the greatest concern arising from progesterone shortages is the possibility that women may be encouraged to substitute synthetic progestins in place of natural progesterone.


The two should never be regarded as interchangeable.


Natural progesterone is chemically identical to the hormone produced in the human body. It binds naturally to progesterone receptors throughout the body and participates in the many physiological processes for which progesterone evolved.


Synthetic progestins, by contrast, are laboratory-created molecules designed to mimic some of progesterone's effects on the uterus. Although they may activate certain progesterone receptors, they differ structurally from progesterone, (they have an altered molecular structure), and can exert very different biological effects.


Unfortunately, many women are told that progestins and progesterone are effectively the same thing. They are not.


This confusion has persisted for decades and has contributed significantly to misconceptions surrounding hormone therapy. Many of the adverse effects historically attributed to "progesterone" in fact originated from studies that used synthetic progestins rather than natural progesterone itself.


Natural progesterone has been shown to have beneficial effects on the brain, sleep, cardiovascular system, bones, immune function, and reproductive tissues. Synthetic progestins cannot automatically be assumed to share these same properties simply because their names sound similar.


Women deserve clear information about this distinction so that they can make informed decisions regarding their health.


A Wake-Up Call for Women's Healthcare:


The current shortages reveal something far more important than a supply-chain issue. They demonstrate that women are actively seeking solutions that address the underlying hormonal changes occurring during peri-menopause and menopause.

For too long, progesterone has been overlooked despite being one of the body's most important hormones. The increasing demand reflects a growing awareness that declining progesterone precedes menopause by many years resulting in the host of symptom experienced as 'peri-menopause'.


The challenge now is not merely increasing production. It is ensuring that women receive accurate information about the different forms and delivery methods of hormone therapy available, and understand the distinction between natural progesterone and synthetic progestins.


The growing interest in progesterone is not a trend. It is a sign that women are finally beginning to ask a fundamental question: what happens when progesterone disappears long before estrogen does? Why are we put on synthetic, molecularly altered hormones when there are natural solutions available?


The answer may reshape how we understand menopause for generations to come and hopefully channel more funding into women’s health and natural hormonal therapy.

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Jun 18, 2026

Progesterone Shortages: Why Growing Demand Reflects a Long-Overdue Shift in Women's Health _ Part 1

A recent Reuters report highlights an emerging issue in the United States: supplies of oral progesterone are tightening as demand for menopause treatment continues to grow.

According to the report, prescriptions for progesterone-containing hormone therapy have more than tripled since 2021, with demand accelerating further following the FDA's removal of longstanding warning labels on hormone replacement therapy in late 2025.

For decades, progesterone has been overshadowed by synthetic progestins and estrogen in discussions surrounding menopause. Yet progesterone is the first hormone to decline as ovulation becomes less frequent during the years leading up to menopause. Long before estrogen levels begin their final decline, women often experience an increasing number of anovulatory cycles—cycles in which no egg is released and little or no progesterone is produced.

This progressive loss of progesterone can contribute to many of the symptoms commonly associated with peri-menopause, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, breast tenderness, heavy bleeding, migraines, mood changes, and weight gain.


The growing demand for progesterone suggests that more women are beginning to understand the importance of natural hormonal balance, rather than focusing solely on estrogen replacement and synthetic progestins.


A Shortage of Oral Progesterone Does Not Mean a Shortage of Options


The media attention surrounding oral progesterone shortages may understandably cause concern among women who rely on progesterone therapy. However, it is important to remember that oral capsules are only one method of delivery.


Natural progesterone cream offers a practical and effective alternative. Unlike oral progesterone, which must pass through the digestive system and liver before reaching the bloodstream, transdermal progesterone is absorbed directly through the skin and into the underlying tissues.


This avoids what is known as the "first-pass effect" of the liver, where a significant proportion of orally administered progesterone is metabolised before it can be utilised by the body. As a result, many women find that transdermal progesterone provides a more effective, and broader range of symptom relief.


Research has shown that progesterone receptors are present throughout the skin, hair follicles, sebaceous glands, brain, breast tissue, bones, blood vessels, and reproductive organs. The skin is therefore an active site for progesterone absorption and utilisation.


Women affected by supply shortages should understand that oral progesterone is not the only route available, nor necessarily the most efficient.

(Continued in Part 2)

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Jun 16, 2026

Menopause: Understanding the Transition & Supporting It Naturally

For many women, menopause is not a sudden event that arrives when periods stop. The transition often begins years earlier, during peri-menopause, when hormonal changes can trigger a wide range of symptoms long before menopause officially occurs.Hot flushes, night sweats, anxiety, insomnia, mood swings, weight gain, fatigue, brain fog, low libido, hair loss, joint pain, and irregular bleeding are among the many symptoms women commonly experience during this time.

What Really Changes During Peri-Menopause?

A key hormonal shift begins years before menopause itself. As ovulation becomes less frequent, the body produces less progesterone. However, estrogen production often continues, creating what is commonly referred to as estrogen dominance—a state where estrogen's effects are no longer adequately balanced by progesterone.Many of the symptoms associated with peri-menopause and menopause are not caused by low estrogen alone, but by the growing imbalance between estrogen and progesterone as ovulation declines.

The Role of Modern Life

Estrogen mimicking compounds in our environment, chronic stress, dietary factors, and exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals add to our hormonal challenges and contribute to symptom severity. At the same time, midlife (peri-menopause to menopause age) often brings increased responsibilities—careers, ageing parents, changing family dynamics, and other stressors—which can further affect hormonal wellbeing.

How do you know you are in Menopause?

Menopause officially occurs when periods have finally stopped. It is generally recommended to allow a year to pass before drawing this conclusion. The symptoms which can be experienced during peri-menopause, prior to menopause, are generally worse than those following after, but can sometimes persist from 5 to 10 years after menopause.Removal of the uterus will also put a woman into instant menopause.See our page on menopause for more information on other factors that can put a woman into menopause.

Natural Solutions for Menopause Support

Consider bio-identical progesterone: Many women find relief from symptoms by supplementing with a natural, bio-identical progesterone cream such as Natpro. For general use, apply 100–200mg per day, divided between morning and evening. Dosage should always be tailored to symptom response and discussed with your healthcare provider.

Optimize vitamin D: Vitamin D works synergistically with progesterone to support bone health, mood, and immune function. Most adults benefit from 5,000–10,000 IU daily, but always test your levels for best results. See our vitamin D and progesterone guide for more.

Prioritize sleep and stress management: Chronic stress can worsen hormonal symptoms and lower your resilience. Movement, restorative sleep, and mindfulness practices can make a real difference.

Support your bones: Menopause increases the risk of osteoporosis. Review our bone health guide for diet, lifestyle, and supplement strategies.

If you’re navigating menopause—or supporting someone who is— our community is here to support you with education, shared experiences, and natural solutions.

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Jun 10, 2026

to what age can you safely continue use progesterone?

I had a complete hysterectomy at age 42. and I have been using 0.01 Progesterone and still using at age 71. Now I'm afraid I will age overnight if I get

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Jun 09, 2026

Peri-Menopause Symptoms, Causes & Natural Solutions

Peri-menopause is a distinct phase where the interplay of hormones—particularly progesterone and estrogen—start to change. Let’s take a look at what’s happening in the body during this transition, why symptoms arise, and the steps you can take to support yourself.

Understanding Peri-menopause - Hormonal Shifts and Physiology:

Peri-menopause typically begins in the mid-to-late 30s, though symptoms may not be apparent until the 40s. The primary physiological change is a decline in progesterone production due to increasingly frequent anovulatory cycles—(months when ovulation does not occur). In contrast, estrogen levels remain relatively stable until the onset of menopause, when they decline more abruptly.

This hormonal imbalance—low progesterone with normal or high estrogen—underpins the majority of peri-menopausal symptoms. It is the ratio between these two hormones, not their absolute levels, that most strongly predicts the severity of symptoms.

Cycle Irregularity and Symptom Patterns:

As ovarian function declines, cycles become increasingly erratic. Bleeding may be lighter or heavier, intervals between periods may shorten to two weeks or extend to three months, and symptoms can be highly variable. Laboratory testing (preferably saliva-based for greater accuracy during irregular cycles) can help clarify hormone levels, but interpreting results requires attention to timing within the cycle, as the luteal phase always lasts the final 14 days before bleeding.

Common Symptoms of Peri-menopause:

•Hot flushes and night sweats

•Irregular menstruation and heavy or light flow

•Anxiety, irritability, or mood swings

•Depression

•Sleep disturbances and insomnia

•Breast tenderness and cysts

•Weight gain and water retention

•Joint and muscle pain

•Headaches and migraines

•Loss of libido

•Memory changes and brain fog

•Skin problems (dryness, early ageing)

And many more—see our comprehensive symptom list on our peri-menopause page.

Managing Symptoms:

Restoring a healthy progesterone-to-estrogen ratio is central to alleviating peri-menopausal symptoms if you are suffering with them. Supplementing with natural progesterone can help restore this balance.

If supplementing with Natpro Progesterone Cream the basic recommend daily dose is between 100mg and 200mg, which corresponds to 3–6ml of cream per day, splitting the dose between morning and evening. Some individuals may require higher doses, always tailored to symptom response. Visit our How to use Progesterone page for more detailed instructions, and consult with your health care provider.

It is important to note that while progesterone can help manage symptoms, it does not fully regulate irregular cycles once peri-menopause has started as this is the natural physiological process the female body must go through as it ends it's fertile phase. However, many report significant improvements in sleep quality, mood stability, and reduction in vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes, night sweats) with consistent use of bio-identical progesterone to support them through this natural life changing transition.

Key Actions You Can Take:

•Track symptoms and cycle patterns—consider keeping a detailed log.

•Request saliva-based hormone testing for more accurate assessment during irregular cycles (learn more about testing).

•Review the full symptom list on our dedicated Peri-menopause page.

•Explore natural progesterone support with Natpro Progesterone Cream.

•Consider taking our Progesterone Deficiency Questionnaire for personalised insights.

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May 19, 2026

Beyond PCOS: How PMOS Better Explains The Condition

For years this condition has been called PCOS, yet the name never truly reflected what was happening in the body. The ovaries are only one part of the picture. Many women with so-called “cysts” have none at all, while others suffer from profound hormonal and metabolic disturbances that affect the entire endocrine system. The newer term PMOS, Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome, is more accurate and long overdue.

PMOS is driven by a complex interaction between insulin, excess androgens, inflammation, stress hormones and disrupted ovulation. Symptoms can include irregular cycles, weight gain, acne, hair growth, infertility, anxiety and fatigue. It is not simply an ovarian disorder, but a whole-body condition affecting metabolism, hormones and reproductive health together.

We have always maintained that progesterone deficiency lies at the heart of many of these symptoms. When ovulation is disrupted, progesterone drops, oestrogen dominance rises, and the cascade of symptoms begins. Restoring balance naturally remains one of the most important steps in supporting women with PMOS.

Read more on our dedicated pages: PCOS and PMOS.

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May 15, 2026

PMOS

Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)

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May 09, 2026

Contraceptives

Contraceptives are now ubiquitous, reaching even the most remote rural communities. But their widespread use raises an important question—at what cost to a woman’s health?

All drug-based contraceptives, whether combined oestrogen/progestin or progestin-only, work by overriding the body’s natural hormonal rhythm. In doing so, they can bring a wide range of adverse effects. These include depression, an increased risk of postnatal depression, insulin resistance, lowered progesterone levels, and disruption to normal ovarian function. More serious concerns have also been noted, such as an increased risk of breast and invasive cervical cancer, elevated inflammation markers, raised cholesterol, high blood pressure, and a greater tendency for blood clot formation.

Although often presented as distinct therapies, contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are fundamentally similar. Both rely on synthetic or modified versions of oestrogen and progesterone. Many progestins used in contraceptives are derived from testosterone, giving them androgenic effects such as acne, weight gain, hair loss, and mood changes. Some have also demonstrated oestrogenic activity, potentially stimulating the proliferation of breast cancer cells.

By suppressing ovulation, contraceptives halt the natural production of progesterone. When use is discontinued, the body does not always return immediately to balance. Instead, there can be a surge in luteinising hormone, androgens, and oestrogen, often resulting in anovulation, irregular cycles, and symptoms such as acne, weight gain, and emotional instability. Without ovulation, progesterone remains low, further compounding the imbalance.

In addition, these drugs are associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to long-term health risks. All contraceptives have the ability to cause insulin resistance, leading to tiredness, weight gain, a foggy brain and more.

The potential for temporary infertility after stopping is also a concern, as normal ovulatory cycles may take time to re-establish.Non-hormonal alternatives do exist. Copper-based intrauterine devices, such as the Copper T or GyneFIX, along with barrier methods like condoms or cervical caps, prevent pregnancy without introducing systemic hormones.

In addition, these drugs are associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to long-term health risks. All contraceptives have the ability to cause insulin resistance, leading to tiredness, weight gain, a foggy brain and more.

The potential for temporary infertility after stopping is also a concern, as normal ovulatory cycles may take time to re-establish.Non-hormonal alternatives do exist. Copper-based intrauterine devices, such as the Copper T or GyneFIX, along with barrier methods like condoms or cervical caps, prevent pregnancy without introducing systemic hormones.

For more information, visit our dedicated page on contraceptives.

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Apr 19, 2026

Honouring Value: Upcoming Natpro Price Changes

We deeply value your trust and loyalty as part of the Natpro community. Over the past 30 years, we have worked hard to keep Natpro’s pricing stable, ensuring the highest quality natural progesterone cream on the market, for an affordable price. Today, we want to share an important update—and the heart behind our decision.

Why Are Prices Changing?

If you’ve followed our journey, you know that our commitment has always been to quality, transparency, and supporting your hormone health with the best possible ingredients. Over the years, the costs of sourcing, manufacturing, and delivering a truly natural product have steadily risen. We’ve absorbed these increases as long as we could, our current price remaining unchanged for 15 years, but to continue providing the value and integrity you expect from Natpro, a price adjustment is now necessary.

New pricing structure:

Natpro 100g dispensers: $46.60

Natpro 100g dispensers 3 or more: $42.90

Natpro 60g tubes: $27.90

Natpro 60g tubes 3 or more: $25.90

This price change will take effect from 1st May 2026.

We understand that price changes can be challenging. Our promise remains the same: every tube and dispenser of Natpro Progesterone Cream is crafted with care, using only bio-identical progesterone and the highest-quality ingredients with a progesterone concentration of 3.33% (3333mg per 100g). We believe this adjustment is essential to continue providing a great quality product you can trust for your hormone balance.

Thank you for your understanding, and for being part of our community!

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Apr 08, 2026

Hot Flushes, why they happen and how to get relief

Hot flushes are the body’s attempt to regulate temperature, a natural response when it senses an imbalance. The skin, being the body’s main defence against overheating, responds with flushing and sweating. Yet the precise mechanism remains incompletely understood, which is why so many approaches fail to bring lasting relief.

They are often blamed on a deficiency of oestrogen, but this does not fully explain the phenomenon. Young girls, women with very low oestrogen, and even some postmenopausal women do not experience hot flushes at all. Conversely, symptoms frequently begin during peri-menopause, when oestrogen levels can still be relatively high. This suggests the cause lies not in oestrogen alone, but in a far more complex neuroendocrine interaction.

The hypothalamus, the body’s temperature regulator, plays a central role. It responds to a host of signals—stress hormones, neurotransmitters, and metabolic cues—all of which influence heat production and dissipation. Substances such as noradrenaline, serotonin, prolactin and CGRP are all involved, many of them inflammatory in nature. When these rise, the delicate balance controlling temperature can be disrupted, resulting in the sudden surge of heat known as a hot flush.

Stress is a key driver. Through the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), the body increases cortisol and adrenaline, heightening both anxiety and internal heat. Blood glucose fluctuations can trigger a similar response, provoking the same sudden overcorrection by the body.

But one factor is often overlooked—the decline in progesterone. As levels fall, its calming and regulatory influence diminishes. Progesterone normally stimulates nitric oxide, a potent vasodilator, and suppresses noradrenaline and inflammatory signals. Without it, vascular tone becomes unstable, stress responses intensify, and temperature control is easily disrupted.

It is the ratio that appears critical. When oestrogen is high relative to progesterone, the system becomes overstimulated. The body may perceive a drop in temperature and respond too aggressively, overshooting into a hot flush. This helps explain why symptoms often occur when hormones fluctuate, rather than when they are consistently low.

A rational approach therefore is to restore balance. Supporting progesterone levels, reducing stress, and stabilising blood glucose can all help bring the system back into equilibrium. In doing so, the body regains its ability to regulate temperature naturally, and the intensity and frequency of hot flushes can diminish.

For more in depth information visit our page cure for hot flashes, and read the hot flashes reference papers.

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Mar 10, 2026

Understanding Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a perplexing and often distressing condition affecting an estimated one in five women during their reproductive years. It occurs when tissue similar to the endometrium — the lining of the uterus — grows in places it should not, such as the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, bladder, bowel, or other areas of the pelvic cavity. In rare cases it has even been found in distant organs including the lungs and skin. As oestrogen rises during the first half of the menstrual cycle, this misplaced tissue responds in the same way as the uterine lining, swelling and bleeding. The result can be pain ranging from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating agony.

Symptoms vary widely between women but commonly include pelvic pain, lower back pain, painful intercourse, painful bowel movements or urination, fatigue, spotting between periods and infertility. For some the symptoms worsen around menstruation, while for others pain can persist throughout the month. Because the disease behaves differently in each woman, diagnosis and treatment can often be frustrating and prolonged.

Although the precise cause remains uncertain, several hormonal patterns are frequently observed. Research indicates that many women with endometriosis produce insufficient progesterone, often with a shortened luteal phase. In some cases the endometrial tissue itself appears resistant to progesterone, meaning the body’s normal levels are not enough to counterbalance the stimulating effects of oestrogen. The condition is therefore considered strongly oestrogen-dependent, with oestrogen promoting the growth and activity of endometrial cells, while progesterone normally acts to inhibit this proliferation.

Progesterone suppresses enzymes known as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are involved in tissue invasion and lesion formation. When progesterone levels are inadequate, or when tissues become resistant to its action, these enzymes may remain active, allowing displaced endometrial cells to invade surrounding tissue. Environmental toxins such as dioxins have also been shown to interfere with progesterone’s ability to regulate these processes.

Increasing evidence also suggests oxidative stress plays a major role in the development and progression of endometriosis. For this reason antioxidants and nutrients involved in glutathione production — such as N-acetyl cysteine, glycine and glutamine — together with adequate vitamin D levels, are often considered important supportive factors.

Conventional treatment commonly includes anti-inflammatory drugs, hormonal contraceptives, aromatase inhibitors or surgery, all aimed at reducing oestrogen stimulation or removing lesions. Yet because endometriosis is complex and frequently progressive, responses to treatment vary widely. Addressing hormonal balance — particularly the relationship between oestrogen and progesterone — remains a key consideration in understanding and managing this challenging condition.

For more information and research papers visit our pages Endometriosis FAQ and Endometriosis Symptoms.

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Mar 10, 2026

Update To My Story From Years Ago

Hello, I've been here off and on for a number of years. In 2019, during a transvaginal ultrasound, I was told I had an ovarian cyst and that we would

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Feb 21, 2026

Endocrine Disruptors

Environmental toxins have increased dramatically since the Second World War, and with them, the rise in hormone-related and degenerative diseases. Although all vertebrates are affected, these conditions are most prevalent in Western cultures, where industrialisation has spread synthetic chemicals into every corner of daily life. Many of these substances mimic the hormone oestrogen and are now known as endocrine disruptors. Pesticides, dioxins and PCBs are among the most concerning, with over a hundred hormone-disrupting chemicals identified — many persisting in the environment for decades or even centuries.

As exposure to oestrogenic toxins has increased, so too has the incidence of hormone-driven diseases. Breast cancer, prostate disorders, infertility and reproductive abnormalities have all risen sharply over the past half century. Sperm counts have declined significantly, and reproductive abnormalities in both men and animals are increasingly linked to prenatal exposure to hormone-mimicking chemicals. Evidence also suggests links between environmental toxins and conditions such as endometriosis, miscarriage and immune dysfunction.

A key concern is the imbalance between oestrogen and progesterone. Oestrogen is an excitatory, inflammatory hormone, while progesterone acts as its natural counterbalance. When environmental toxins increase the oestrogenic burden, particularly in the absence of adequate progesterone, tissues become more vulnerable to disease. Research has associated unopposed oestrogen with cancers of hormone-sensitive tissues and reproductive disorders, while progesterone appears protective through its anti-inflammatory and regulatory actions.

Modern lifestyles have also extended lifetime oestrogen exposure. Earlier puberty, fewer pregnancies and longer lifespans mean women now experience far more menstrual cycles than in the past, further compounding the toxic load. At the same time, persistent environmental chemicals remain widespread in air, soil, water, food, household and personal care products and fabrics, ensuring ongoing exposure across generations.

Ultimately, progesterone plays a fundamental role in protecting the body against environmental stressors. Far from being merely a reproductive hormone, it is essential for both men and women, acting as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuroprotective agent. Understanding the relationship between environmental toxins and hormonal balance is therefore central to protecting long-term health in the modern world.

To find out more please visit our dedicated page on Environmental Toxins, and read the research papers presented there.

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Feb 20, 2026

Progestrone for PPD

Hi, I would like to get some guidance and help from any fellow friends who have used progesterone in postpartum to prevent PPD and help balance hormones.

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Feb 14, 2026

Breast Cysts

Breast cysts — often called fibrocystic breasts, mammary dysplasia or chronic cystic mastitis — are extremely common, affecting the majority of women at some point in their lives. They typically present as tender, movable lumps in the breast tissue, often accompanied by swelling, pain or nipple discharge. Although benign, they can cause significant discomfort and anxiety. They tend to occur most often between the ages of 30 and 50, and are rare after menopause unless HRT is being used. 

One feature of fibrocystic breasts is their link with the menstrual cycle. Many women notice symptoms worsening just before menstruation, when progesterone levels naturally fall. Normally these cysts resolve once bleeding begins. When they persist, it is often a sign that progesterone levels remain too low throughout the cycle. From the mid-thirties onward, anovulatory cycles become more common, leading to declining progesterone production — a key factor in the development of breast cysts.

Three hormones play central roles: oestrogen, prolactin and progesterone. Oestrogen and prolactin are inflammatory and stimulate proliferation in breast tissue, whereas progesterone acts as a natural anti-inflammatory. It inhibits oestrogen-driven cell growth, promotes cellular differentiation and suppresses prolactin. When progesterone is insufficient, this balance is lost, allowing swelling, tenderness and cyst formation to develop.

Elevated prolactin can further suppress ovulation, creating a cycle of worsening progesterone deficiency. Stress contributes to this by lowering dopamine, the neurotransmitter that normally restrains prolactin production. Nutritional factors also matter: inadequate protein intake may impair dopamine synthesis, while iodine deficiency can contribute to breast tenderness and cystic changes.

From a natural perspective, restoring hormonal balance is key. Progesterone supplementation — often applied as a cream directly to the breasts — is frequently beneficial, with dosage adjusted according to symptoms. Supporting dopamine levels through adequate protein or tyrosine intake may help regulate prolactin, while nutrients such as iodine, DIM and calcium-D-glucarate may assist oestrogen metabolism.

Conventional management typically focuses on clinical exams, mammograms or ultrasound imaging to confirm cysts, with aspiration or surgery reserved for persistent or large lesions. A less invasive method that may be employed is Thermography.

While these approaches address symptoms, correcting the underlying hormonal imbalance offers a more fundamental path to lasting relief.

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Feb 10, 2026

Causes of Memory Loss

Memory is the brain’s ability to store and recall information. When this system fails, we experience memory loss, which ranges from mild forgetfulness to severe cognitive impairment such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Dementia is defined as a decline in memory and thinking that interferes with daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common form, accounting for roughly 60–80 % of cases in elderly populations. True memory disorders are not normal aging; they arise when specific biological or environmental factors damage brain structure or function.

A wide array of causes have been implicated in memory impairment. Central to many is oxidative stress, a condition where reactive free radicals overwhelm the brain’s limited antioxidant defenses, damaging neurons and synaptic communication. Chronic stress also plays a role by increasing inflammatory cytokines that disrupt brain function. Epigenetic changes — alterations in gene expression triggered by early-life stress, toxin exposure, or nutrient deficiencies — can predispose individuals to cognitive decline later in life.

Several metabolic and lifestyle factors contribute: persistent high blood sugar and diabetes accelerate the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that foster inflammation and neuronal damage. Poor blood flow, vascular injury, and multiple small strokes (multi-infarct dementia) directly injure the brain. Nutrient deficiencies—especially vitamin B12 and folate—are linked to more rapid cognitive decline, while excessive alcohol, lack of exercise, and thyroid dysfunction further undermine memory performance. Drug side effects, particularly from anticholinergic medications that block acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter essential to memory), also impair cognition. Statins have been associated with increased risk of memory problems as well.

Hormonal balance emerges as a critical factor. Excess catabolic hormones like cortisol, oestrogen, and thyroid hormones relative to anabolic hormones including progesterone, testosterone, DHEAS, and IGF-1 may promote oxidative stress and reduce neuroprotection. Progesterone, in particular, is noted for its neuroprotective actions: it reduces excitotoxicity (cell death from excess glutamate and calcium), increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), supports myelin integrity, and attenuates tau pathology common in Alzheimer’s.

Environmental toxins — aluminum being highlighted — may trigger pathological protein changes seen in Alzheimer’s. Immune conditions like lupus and fibromyalgia can manifest as “brain fog,” and depression—often linked to lower BDNF—is commonly found alongside cognitive impairment.

Finally, while several modern drugs (e.g., cholinesterase inhibitors) modestly slow symptom progression by preserving acetylcholine, they do not halt the underlying damage. A holistic understanding of memory loss therefore integrates oxidative stress, metabolic health, hormones, lifestyle, nutrients, and environmental exposures.

For more information read our page Causes of memory loss

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Feb 03, 2026

Migraines & Hormone Balance

Migraines aren’t just intense headaches — they’re a systemic neurological crisis that disrupts your senses, drains your energy, and derails your life. What most people don’t realize is that women are affected three to four times more often than men, and understanding why reveals far deeper insights into migraine biology and prevention.

At the heart of this disparity are hormonal dynamics. Before puberty, boys and girls experience migraines at nearly the same rate, but once estrogen surges begin in adolescence, the gender gap quickly widens. Estrogen both primes the brain’s pain pathways and triggers attacks: high levels make the nervous system hypersensitive, while sudden drops — such as those that occur before menstruation or after childbirth — spark electrical instability in the brain that initiates migraine pain. Natural progesterone, in contrast, has a calming effect, helping counteract estrogen’s tendency to heighten inflammation and nerve excitability.

These hormonal swings explain why migraines cluster around key female life stages — puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause — and why many women see their migraine patterns shift as hormone levels change. For example, some women experience relief if hormone levels stabilize during pregnancy or after menopause.

Underlying these surface triggers, however, is a deeper issue: mitochondrial dysfunction. Migraines are energy-driven events. The brain demands vast amounts of ATP (cellular energy), and when mitochondria — the “powerhouses” of cells — are compromised, the brain becomes much more susceptible to stressors, hormonal fluctuation, and inflammation. One of the biggest disruptors of mitochondrial health is excess linoleic acid (LA) from seed oils and highly processed foods. Oxidized LA damages mitochondrial membranes and proteins, reducing ATP production and increasing oxidative stress — a perfect storm for migraine susceptibility.

This biological vulnerability is compounded by genetic, structural, and stress-related factors. Women are more likely to experience longer, more intense attacks, and to report greater disability from migraines than men. Social and environmental stressors — such as shift work, poor sleep, and workplace triggers like bright lights or chemical odors — further elevate risk.

The good news is that migraines aren’t inevitable. By stabilizing hormones, protecting mitochondria, and reducing inflammation, you can significantly cut frequency and intensity. Practical steps include lowering linoleic acid intake, supporting melatonin through proper light exposure and sleep hygiene, and ensuring adequate nutrients like magnesium, CoQ10, and B vitamins for brain energy. Tracking personal triggers and supporting natural progesterone balance can also help women align their biology with lasting migraine relief.

Read this excellent article by Dr. Mercola, Why Is Migraine More Common in Women Than Men?, and visit our pages on Inflammation and Migraine Treatment.

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Jan 30, 2026

Progesterone: A Central Hormone in Calming Psoriasis Inflammation

Psoriasis is commonly seen as a skin problem — red, scaly patches that itch and flare without warning — but research shows the real driver may be hormonal imbalance deep inside the body, especially low progesterone. Progesterone isn’t just a reproductive hormone; it plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system and calming inflammation, two key factors in psoriasis development.

The Hormonal Signature of Psoriasis:

Large clinical data show that women with psoriasis consistently have lower progesterone levels than those without the condition. In one major study, progesterone in women with psoriasis averaged about 7.59 ng/mL, significantly lower than 9.4 ng/mL in women without psoriasis. This difference may seem modest in lab terms, but biologically it reflects a meaningful loss of progesterone’s anti-inflammatory influence.

Progesterone acts like a natural brake on immune activation, dampening inflammatory white blood cells and preventing overreaction to everyday stressors. When progesterone drops, this brake weakens, allowing immune signals that drive psoriasis — such as rapid skin cell turnover, redness and itch — to become stronger and more persistent.

Progesterone vs. Estrogen: Balance Matters More Than Levels:

Inflammation in psoriasis isn’t just about low progesterone — it’s about the ratio of progesterone to estrogen. Even when estrogen levels look normal in blood tests, tissues can still “feel” estrogen more strongly if progesterone is low. This shift creates what researchers and clinicians call estrogen dominance, where estrogen’s pro-inflammatory effect goes unchecked because progesterone is no longer there to balance it.

This imbalance helps explain why many women notice psoriasis flares at specific times: in the luteal phase before menstruation, after childbirth, and during menopause — all periods when progesterone naturally falls relative to estrogen. The key takeaway is that healthy progesterone levels act like an internal buffer against this inflammatory shift.

Progesterone and Immune-Driven Symptoms:

Low progesterone also links to systemic immune activity, not just visible skin symptoms. Without enough progesterone, the immune system becomes more reactive to stress, lifestyle triggers and environmental exposures, increasing the likelihood and severity of psoriasis flare-ups. Supporting progesterone isn’t just about hormone numbers — it’s about strengthening immune tolerance so that everyday stresses don’t erupt as skin inflammation.

For more information see our pages on Progesterone and psoriasis and, Inflammatory diseases

And read this article by Dr Mercola Low Progesterone and DHEA Drive Psoriasis

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Jan 29, 2026

Miss

Hi everyone. I just needed some thoughts or ideas so I decided to post here. First of all this website has so much information and I am grateful for

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Jan 26, 2026

Low libido

Low libido—whether described as poor sexual desire, low arousal, or hypoactive sexual desire disorder—is a common and complex issue affecting both men and women, shaped by physical, endocrinologic, neurological and psychogenic factors. Libido is not simply wanting sex; it is the subjective energy of the sexual drive, and its disruption is widespread across ages and circumstances.

Sexual dysfunction is influenced by mood, relationships, medications, and systemic health. Physical contributors include low dopamine, low progesterone, low vitamin D, low testosterone, low zinc, atherosclerosis, hypothyroidism, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and many commonly prescribed drugs. Psychological causes range from depression and anxiety to past trauma and stress.

Contrary to common belief, testosterone alone does not reliably dictate libido. While often prescribed, testosterone therapy—especially in women—carries many side effects, and evidence shows plasma testosterone levels correlate poorly with sexual desire. Progesterone, historically underestimated, appears to play a much greater role in sexual behavior and response than typically acknowledged.

Scientific findings challenge the simplistic view that only androgens drive desire. Progesterone is produced not just by the ovaries or testes but also by the brain and adrenal glands, and animal research shows progesterone surges are linked with sexual activity, facilitate behaviour even in the absence of other steroids, and support erection mechanisms. Progesterone receptors also mediate dopamine’s action—a key neurotransmitter for motivation, arousal and ejaculation.

Normal sexual response also depends on nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen sulfide and other vasodilators that enable blood flow to sexual tissues. Progesterone and vitamin D enhance vasodilation and NO production, while adequate dopamine keeps prolactin in check (since high prolactin suppresses libido). Nutrients such as tyrosine, arginine, NAC, magnesium and vitamin K all support these pathways.

Life stages like post-partum and peri-menopause often coincide with low libido, paralleling drops in progesterone even when estrogen and testosterone remain unchanged.

Natural treatment emphasizes restoring progesterone alongside critical nutrients: vitamin D to support dopamine synthesis and testosterone levels; tyrosine to prevent prolactin elevations; arginine and NAC for vascular function; and cofactors like magnesium and vitamin K to maintain arterial health. Consider also herbs with aphrodisiac properties and hormone testing, especially for progesterone, vitamin D and prolactin.

For more information visit our webpage on Low Libido

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Jan 24, 2026

Natpro tube - SA

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Jan 21, 2026

Miscarriage: Understanding Early Pregnancy Loss

Have you experienced the heartbreak of early pregnancy loss, or wondered why conception isn’t as simple as you hoped? If so, you are not alone. Miscarriage is far more common than many realize—affecting up to 1 in 4 recognized pregnancies. Yet, the silence and confusion around this topic can leave you feeling isolated and searching for answers.

Why Does Miscarriage Happen?

Early miscarriage—especially in the first trimester—often feels like a mystery. While chromosomal issues are a frequent cause, another key factor is often overlooked: hormone balance. In particular, progesterone plays a vital role in preparing and maintaining the uterine lining so that a fertilized egg can implant and thrive.

When progesterone levels are too low, the body may not sustain the pregnancy, leading to what’s sometimes called "luteal phase defect". A deficiency in Vitamin D is also a major contributing factor, a lack of vitamin D3 reduces the benefits of progesterone.

A few symptoms that may suggest a progesterone deficiency may include:

•Spotting or light bleeding before your period

•Water retention

•Unexplained fatigue or mood swings and mild depression

•Difficulty conceiving despite regular cycles

Progesterone’s Protective Role in Conception & Pregnancy:

After ovulation, your body produces more progesterone to thicken the uterine lining and create a nourishing environment for a developing embryo. If levels fall too soon, the lining may shed—resulting in a period or an early loss, even before you realize you’re pregnant.

For those who have experienced more than one miscarriage, or have symptoms of progesterone deficiency, supplementing with a bio-identical progesterone cream may offer support. Many women in our community have found hope and success by addressing this often-missed factor.

What Can You Do? Steps Toward Hormonal Harmony:

•Track your cycle: Note the length, ovulation, and any spotting. Irregularities can signal hormone imbalances.

•Take our free Progesterone Deficiency Questionnaire: This simple tool helps you identify symptoms and risk factors.

•Read our dedicated pages on miscarriage, FAQ conception, infertility and hormone balance to find answers to questions about fertility, implantation, and hormone support.

Consider natural progesterone support, using a cream like Natpro Progesterone Cream may help restore balance and support your pregnancy. (You are encouraged to consult with a health care practitioner and, in reference to any information shared here or on our websites, preferably one with specific knowledge of progesterone therapy.)

Connect with others: Our community forums are a supportive space to share your story or seek advice from those who truly understand.

You Are Not Alone

Experiencing miscarriage or fertility struggles can be deeply isolating, but there is hope. Many women have found answers and renewed optimism by understanding the role of hormones—especially progesterone—in early pregnancy. If you or someone you know is searching for clarity, know that compassionate support and actionable solutions are available.

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Jan 03, 2026

Cortisol

I'm not clear on what progesterone does to cortisol levels. Not sure if it's helping mine. I have continuous high cortisol at night and mornings. Yet

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Dec 30, 2025

🌱 Fertility, Infertility & Progesterone

If you are feeling confused or overwhelmed by fertility challenges, or wondering if hormone balance might be affecting your ability to conceive you are not alone—many women and couples face uncertainty, frustration, and a lack of clear answers when it comes to fertility and infertility.

Understanding Fertility & the Hidden Role of Progesterone:

Fertility is a complex dance of hormones, timing, and health. While most people focus on ovulation and sperm health, one of the most overlooked factors is progesterone—a hormone essential for preparing the uterus for implantation and supporting early pregnancy. Without enough progesterone, even a healthy egg and sperm may not result in a successful pregnancy.

Some of the signs of infertility linked to hormone imbalance include:

•Irregular or absent periods•Short luteal phase (the time between ovulation and your next period)•Spotting before your period starts•Recurrent miscarriages•Unexplained fatigue, anxiety, or mood swings•Symptoms of estrogen dominance (bloating, breast tenderness, PMS)

Many women are told that infertility is “unexplained” or simply due to age, but the truth is that progesterone deficiency is a common—and often correctable—cause.

Progesterone Deficiency: Why It Matters for Conception:

Progesterone is produced after ovulation and is vital for thickening the uterine lining and maintaining it so an embryo can implant and grow. If levels are too low, implantation may not occur, or early miscarriage can result. This is sometimes called “luteal phase defect.”

Factors that can lower progesterone include:•chronic stress•excessive exercise•poor diet•age•underlying health conditions like PCOS or thyroid issues.•Environmental toxins and xenoestrogens (chemicals that mimic estrogen).

Common questions about conception include:

"Can I get pregnant if I have irregular cycles?"

"Does spotting before my period mean something is wrong?"

"What can I do if I’ve experienced multiple miscarriages?"

"How do I know if low progesterone is my problem?"

For answers to these and more, visit our page on Conception FAQ, it’s a helpful resource for anyone trying to understand their fertility journey.

Natural Solutions & Next Steps: Restoring Hormonal Harmony

The good news is that many cases of hormone-related infertility can be improved with natural approaches. Here are some actionable steps you can take:

Track your cycle: Use a calendar or app to monitor ovulation, luteal phase length, and symptoms. This helps identify patterns and possible hormone deficiencies.

Take our free Progesterone Deficiency Questionnaire, It’s a quick way to assess your symptoms and get personalized guidance.

Consider bio-identical progesterone cream: Using a natural cream, such as Natpro Progesterone Cream, can help restore balance and support fertility. Always read about estrogen dominance before starting.

Support overall hormone health: Prioritize a nutrient-rich diet, manage stress, and get adequate sleep. Avoid exposure to xenoestrogens found in plastics and some cosmetics.

If you’ve experienced challenges with fertility or found success using natural progesterone, your story can inspire others. Share your experience or join our community forums for support and encouragement.

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Dec 30, 2025

New to Progesterone Cream

Hello First of all THANK YOU so much for this website - I am blown away by how much information and support is provided. I am new to bioidentical progesterone

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Dec 28, 2025

FDA removes HRT risk warning labels

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