Question:
Pre-op and wondering about the effectiveness of progesterone cream?

I have had irregular periods most of my life, often going months without one. I had an endometrial biopsy (to rule out anything) in October 2000 and had several good, heavy periods after that. Now I haven't had anything except very scant spotting one time, for the last 6 months! OB/GYN attributes lack of periods and infertility to obesity, of course. I want to hear from people who have used progesterone cream. Does it work? What brand do you use? I see that it is rather expensive, so I would like more feedback before investing. I could handle the lack of periods...but for the past week or so now my breasts are soooooo sore!!! Help! Thanks, Anna    — Anna L. (posted on April 27, 2002)

April 27, 2002
I'm not sure how you would use the progesterone cream, but I do have another suggestion. Find another OB/GYN. Yes your symptoms can be caused by your weight. But, that does not mean they can't be treated. It just makes me angry when doctors attribute all of our problems to how much we weigh and don't even look at treatments that could be helpful. OK, off my soapbox now.
   — garw

April 27, 2002
HI Anna, I have used the progesterone cream from GNC called "FemQuest" for about 2 mos because my breasts were painfully sore. I am 49 so it is totally confusing with the hormone issue. I saw on Oprah Dr. Northup, a popular gynecologist and she recommended it. I am premenopausal but WLS surgery has possibly contributed to the issue because of all the estrogen being released with weight loss. Anyway, the cream should be rubbed on anywhere for 21 days and then stop for a week. I hadn't had a period for 3 mos and today I started. What instant relief from the soreness. I really like the cream regardless if it helps or not because it makes my skin so soft. I like to use it on my face and neck. I also got some premeasured one-dose packettes from GNC called Progesta. Both are recommended in "What Your Doctor May NOT Tell You About Menopause" by John R. Lee, MD. He recommends natural progesterone and that is what I use. I don't guess it will hurt us since overweight and weight loss as well causes over abundant estrogen. I don't know how old you are but I know it helps me. Good luck and relief from the soreness. My breasts were so sore I actually groan and feel pain when I take off my bra. So much better when the period starts. Whoever called menstruation a "curse" is wrong! I am very happy when I have it. My breasts were sore for three weeks prior to starting my period. WHEW!
   — Marilyn C.

April 27, 2002
Gar - while I appreciate your feedback and understand where you're coming from, my doctor and I have discussed things and I am happy with him and trust him completely. I haven't talked to him about the breast soreness yet but will do so at my yearly checkup next month. Marilyn - Thank you for providing me some information. I plan to check out my local GNC tomorrow. - Anna
   — Anna L.