Evidence supporting the use of: Progesterone
For the health condition: PMS (general)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Progesterone has been used to treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS) based on the hypothesis that PMS symptoms are related to luteal phase deficiencies or imbalances in sex hormones, particularly progesterone. Historically, some clinicians have used either oral or transdermal progesterone with the intent of alleviating PMS symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, and bloating.

However, the scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of progesterone for PMS is limited and inconsistent. A 2012 Cochrane review, which analyzed randomized controlled trials, concluded that there is little evidence to support the use of progesterone in the treatment of PMS. Most studies reviewed did not find significant differences between progesterone and placebo in relieving PMS symptoms. The review also noted issues with study quality and variations in how PMS was diagnosed and measured.

Guidelines from professional organizations, such as the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, do not recommend progesterone as a first-line treatment for PMS due to the lack of robust evidence supporting its efficacy. Current best practices emphasize lifestyle modifications and, in more severe cases, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and hormonal contraceptives rather than progesterone supplementation.

In summary, while progesterone is sometimes used in clinical practice for PMS, scientific validation for its effectiveness is weak, with current evidence not supporting routine use.

More about Progesterone
More about PMS (general)

Products containing Progesterone

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.