Have you ever wondered if you might be suffering from low progesterone? Women often wonder about this.

How can you be 100% for certain? This article will go through some of the tell-tale signs to help you better understand it and work towards feeling better about yourself.

There is a lot of discussion around this progesterone, its uses and effects. It is naturally secreted by the ovary in the last two weeks of the menstrual cycle. There are also synthetic versions available as well. For example, progesterone-like substances called progestogens (also referred to as progestins) can be ingested by women who use birth control pills as a form of contraception, menopausal hormone replacement therapy or treatment, or just sometimes to induce a menstrual period or regulate abnormal bleeding problems. Progesterone has been used also as therapy for PMS syndrome and for women with infertility or frequent pregnancy loss.

Common Causes Of Low Progesterone

Believe it or not, sometimes women can demonstrate all the early signs and signals. This is quite common in ladies who are under 40 years of age. But, if you ask any healthy 20 year old female if she is in her pre-menopause stage, most will deny it. The misconception out there is that only women in their 40s can be at risk. This simply is not true.

Anyone at any age can begin to show these symptoms. What can you expect? Often, mood swings are an early sign that something isn't right. However, the evidence here is inconclusive. In other words, it can be common for anyone to be on an emotional roller coaster ride. This is part of everyday life.

Do changes in your mood, low energy levels or lack of energy, indicate that you may have a hormonal imbalance or lower progesterone levels? Once again, this is not always the case. Quite often, a lack of sleep can cause related symptoms that are not directly caused or related to your progesterone levels.

Have you been getting enough sleep lately? gained an excessive amount of weight recently? This could mimic the triggers associated with premenopause. For example, some females who are overweight have infrequent menstrual symptoms and bleeding patterns that are irregular. Before jumping to conclusions, if you notice any of the conditions mentioned above, you should consult your health practitioner.

Is it better to take progesterone as a pill, a shot, a vaginal suppository or a cream?

Each of these is a viable solution to your needs. The best method of administration for you is best determined based on its availability, convenience and price. Some products are more expensive than others. Plus, the rate of absorption and the rate it will last can also vary depending on the form that it used:

Pills - the maximum absorption is reached within 1-4 hours. After 24 hours, the effects are gone. Absorption is enhanced when consuming food with your pills.

Shots - they are usually administered in the form of an oil. At about the 12 hours mark, dose peak and take about 28 hours to fully clear out of the system.

Vaginal Suppositories, Cream - these are very easy and convenient to use and are gully absorbed before 4 hours has passed. Fully cleared within 24 hours.

Skin Creams - creams generally are not absorbed through the skin that well, once a day application of alcohol-based gels can be very effective when used once per day. Another good choice is a 10% alcohol and propylene glycol base. This works quite well and will clear the system within 24 hours or less.

As you can see, there are various options available for those who show low progesterone levels. As always, it is recommended to consult your OBGYN or family doctor before using any of the solutions mentioned above.