The 'back-to-nature' movement is sweeping the health-care industry as many patients, and physicians, are realizing the benefits of all things natural , from nurse-midwives assisting at births to medicinal plants that may boost memory. Add to these alternative approaches natural progesterone, which, although not derived from a natural source, has a chemical structure identical to that of the hormone produced by a woman's body.
'Natural' micronized progesterone, manufactured in a laboratory from chemicals derived from wild yams and soy, has clear advantages over synthetic progesterone, which differs from any of the estrogens produced in humans. Natural progesterone generally is nontoxic, has few side effects and is less costly than synthetic forms. Importantly, it may be more effective as a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women who have gone through menopause.
Natural progesterone protects the uterus from endometrial cancer and is preferred as HRT for women with high blood pressure. Some studies have suggested that it could help prevent osteoporosis and breast cancer, and treat premenstrual syndrome, but more research is needed to be sure. Perhaps the only disadvantage of natural progesterone is that it has to be taken four times a day.
Last Updated: September 28, 2009