Can I take progesterone during my menstrual period?

Progesterone is typically available in tablet form. Generally, during menstruation, if there are no discomfort symptoms, taking progesterone is not usually recommended; if there are related symptoms, it may be necessary to take progesterone under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanation is as follows:

During the menstrual cycle, progesterone levels are at their lowest when menstruation begins, and the endometrium is shedding. Additional progesterone supplementation at this time might interfere with this natural physiological process. Taking progesterone during menstruation could lead to menstrual cycle disorders, including increased menstrual flow, prolonged or shortened menstrual cycles, or irregular periods. This is because progesterone tablets can affect the shedding and proliferation of the endometrium, thereby disrupting the normal menstrual cycle.

Progesterone use may also cause discomfort such as breast pain, dizziness, and headaches. Long-term usage could lead to hormonal imbalances within the body, affecting the normal shedding of the endometrium. Progesterone tablets are primarily used to treat conditions associated with progesterone deficiency, such as menstrual disorders and luteal phase deficiency. However, medication for these conditions is generally administered under a doctor's supervision, appropriately scheduled according to specific medical conditions and different phases of the menstrual cycle, rather than being taken arbitrarily during menstruation.

In a few cases, women with irregular menstrual cycles or luteal phase deficiency may be advised by doctors to supplement progesterone at specific stages of their menstrual cycle to regulate the cycle, promote follicular development, and stabilize the endometrium.