Best Progesterone Supplements and Creams

Progesterone is a vital hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle, supporting pregnancy, and maintaining overall hormone balance in women. When progesterone levels are low, it can lead to a range of symptoms, such as irregular periods, PMS, fertility issues, and menopausal discomfort. While lifestyle changes like stress management, healthy eating, and regular exercise can help support natural progesterone production, sometimes additional support is needed. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best progesterone supplements and creams available, along with their potential benefits and risks.

1. Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus)

Chasteberry, also known as Vitex, is an herbal supplement that has been used for centuries to support women's reproductive health. It works by stimulating the pituitary gland to produce more luteinizing hormone (LH), which in turn triggers the ovaries to produce more progesterone. Chasteberry is available in capsule, tincture, and tea form, and is often used to alleviate PMS symptoms, regulate irregular cycles, and support fertility.

2. Natural Progesterone Cream

Natural progesterone cream is a topical supplement that contains bioidentical progesterone derived from plant sources, such as wild yam or soy. When applied to the skin, the progesterone is absorbed into the bloodstream, helping to balance hormone levels and alleviate symptoms of progesterone deficiency. Natural progesterone cream is often used to manage menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness, as well as to support fertility and alleviate PMS. It's important to choose a high-quality, third-party tested cream and follow the recommended dosage instructions carefully.

3. Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in hormone balance. It helps the body produce neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which can help regulate mood and alleviate PMS symptoms. Vitamin B6 also supports the liver's ability to metabolize and eliminate excess estrogen, helping to maintain a healthy balance between estrogen and progesterone. Good sources of vitamin B6 include poultry, fish, potatoes, and non-citrus fruits. It's also available in supplement form, either alone or as part of a B-complex vitamin.

4. Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that plays a crucial role in hormone production and balance. It helps the body produce progesterone and other sex hormones, as well as maintain a healthy balance between estrogen and progesterone. Zinc also supports immune function, wound repairing, and sensory perception. Good sources of zinc include oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, and nuts. Zinc supplements are also available, but it's important not to exceed the recommended daily allowance of 40mg per day, as excessive zinc intake can interfere with copper absorption and cause other health issues.

5. Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil is a rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory and hormone-balancing properties. GLA is converted in the body into prostaglandin E1, a compound that helps regulate hormone production and alleviate symptoms of hormone imbalance, such as PMS, menstrual cramps, and menopausal discomfort. Evening primrose oil is available in capsule form and is often used in combination with other hormone-balancing supplements like chasteberry or natural progesterone cream.

When choosing progesterone supplements or creams, it's important to work with a qualified holistic health practitioner who can help you identify the underlying causes of your hormone imbalance and recommend the most appropriate treatments for your individual needs. While supplements can be a useful tool for supporting hormone health, they should be used in combination with lifestyle changes like stress management, healthy eating, and regular exercise for optimal results.

If you're struggling with symptoms of low progesterone or hormone imbalance, I invite you to book a discovery call with me. As a Naturopathic Doctor, I specialize in helping women optimize their hormone health through personalized nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement protocols. During our call, we'll discuss your unique symptoms, health history, and goals, and I'll share some tailored strategies for supporting your progesterone levels and overall hormone balance.

You don't have to settle for feeling less than your best. Book your discovery call today and take the first step towards reclaiming your vitality and hormone health.