I’ve been using 100 mg of vaginal progesterone for a year now, together with transdermal estradiol. I’ve never taken it orally. I’ve already had two checkups with my gynecologist, and everything looks perfect. My bloodwork is better than ever at 53 - not only my sex hormones, but also my entire hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis and lipid profile. I couldn’t be happier!
Me too. I use Micronized Progesterone vaginally, and only do it 14 evenings a month. I also use estradiol and testosterone, and feel better than I have in a long time, my lab work is improved, and my osteoporosis is declining.
Okay...so progesterone makes us crave carbs. We don't have to act on those cravings, do we? I've been taking oral progesterone for almost two years now. No weight gain. Eating a healthy Mediterranean diet. Not eating junk food. Fruits and veggies instead of cakes cookies and candy. No highly processed foods and alcohol only on special occasions. I sleep like a baby and my moods are regulated, thanks to progesterone. It is my savior.
Maybe you aren’t as sensitive to it. I never ate sugar and very little carbs before starting progesterone. While on it the cravings for sugar and carbs are out of control! Also, my willpower to not eat these items is gone. It has been shocking & depressing.
You must not be sensitive to it then. MOST women I have seen in my FB BHRT group CANNOT take P orally due to the weight gain, reflux, and groggy feeling the next day.
I’ve been taking 100mg of oral progesterone along with my estrogen transdermal gel. I’ve actually lost a few lbs. I weight train and try to get in 10000 steps per day. I stick to a good diet that is high in protein
Maybe try only taking the progesterone for 2 weeks per month to see if that influences weight loss. Many doctors prescribe it this way (cyclicly) to mimic the reproductive cycle.
Everyone’s chemistry is so different. I’ve given BHRT 2 tries in 1 year. At 50 I lost my period, I felt like a million bucks 6 years out of menopause. Started BHRT at 56. Ever since it’s been one issue after another!!! Yes I’m osteoporotic but barely had hot flashes and my mood improved after I lost my period! Im off everything again. I think I’ll keep with the the high protein, heavy weights and taking care of myself the best way I know like I diss 6 years after menopause prior to BHRT. My experience kinda sucked! 😢
I have been doing all kind of crazy research about my excruciating hunger around 5am every day! I am 64 years old and have been on BI HT for 14 years. 200mg progesterone every night. I have gained 7 pounds this past 2 years. I eat clean, workout and lift. Waking up dying of hunger is driving me crazy. Anyone else ?
Sounds like switching to using vaginal or rectal progesterone could help. A big switch in hunger occurred for me when I gave up wheat and other gluten grains. It was making me sooooo hungry all the time and I had no idea, til I stopped it for 3 days, an my hunger normalized for the first time in my life. I can still overeat but just find it easier to control myself toward healthier choices. It was causing immune/sensitivity reactions, and it was interesting to find out this was one! Focus on eating protein, eggs and healthy fat like butter and coconut oil and avoid sweet tastes. Stay under 20 gm of carbs. Watch Dr Boz. I like using the “Lose it” app and keeping my meals easy/simple and often the same.
So this is why I’m so bloated and putting weight on. However on 200mg of continuous oral progesterone I’m calm and I sleep so well. So I’m either overweight and mentally better or slim and anxious 😢. I don’t think taken vaginally I would get the calm effect? Maybe I need to look at a low carb diet to help lose my weight. Menopause sure is a challenge!
Hello, Dr. Gersh. I just this month STOPPED my ORAL progesterone for just this reason. I'm 61--menopause at 58. Big difference in my mood, like huge! I'm naturally thin, however, the stress causes more fat than I was comfortable with. Already looking and feeling better. I also eat only from 8 am to 3 pm. More huge changes. Thank you for this great info. Hope it helps many ❤❤❤❤
So , is this the reason I gained almost 15lbs since I started HRT😢. I’m desperate , I was thin even in menopause, but the moment I started estrogen and progesterone I gained all this weight . Plus I got my period all over again
@o@onewomansjourney760at’s what I thought until I saw this . I’m so confused all along I thought it was the estrogen , now it turns out it could be the progesterone as well
Hi Dr. Gersh! I haven't experienced weight gain using 100-200 mg of oral Prometrium (3 weeks per month), nor have I experienced any sugar/carb cravings. However, I DO want to use the best delivery method and not overdose on allopregnanolone. My question is whether using progesterone vaginally or rectally will work as well as oral to induce sleep. The week I take off from oral progesterone, I can't sleep more than a few fitful hours.
I don’t get it. If oral progesterone makes us gain weight, then without HRT we’d have no progesterone or allopregnanolone at all and should stay slim. But most women don’t take HRT during menopause and still gain weight. So this can’t be only about taking progesterone orally.
A lot of that weight is in the belly, in the form of visceral fat. Estrogen taken during menopause helps keep this visceral fat away. What Dr. Gersh is talking about is subcutaneous fat, such as in the hips and thighs.
You dont need to convince me, its my prescribing doctor that needs convinced 🙄 Im pretty close to stopping hrt altogether and that wasn't what I wanted after almost a year. For every positive benefit Ive had, I've had double the negative effects.
There are many benefits to HRT that you can't see and that you forgot about. You have a REDuced risk of alsheimers & dementia, you have a reduced risk of osteoporosis ( you can't feel your bones loosing density) and you have a reduced risk of cardiovascular events. Stay on the hrt and just improve your diet. Start with baby steps.
Progesterone immediately caused severe dysphagia in me! I mean, I ate without stopping unless I was asleep. (I had other intolerable progesterone side effects, too, but this video wasn't about that. I called that Prometrium 100mg capsule the medicine from hell.)
I appreciate the effort these dooctors and researchers are putting ou t. I wish i had even 1/2 the info 10 years ago. Yes, there are many different bits of info out here here but everyone is still learning, the doctors included. Give some grace and appreciation that we are getting information after far too long without it.
After my hysterectomy September 2025, my Gyno increased my oral micro progesterone from 100 to 200mg nightly. I have been fasting 12-18 hours several days a week, walking 30 minutes 4-5x week and going to the gym to lift (not heavy) ---- *unfortunately not too consistent with the gym*, maybe 5 x month. I have not been able to lose a pound. This podcast makes me wonder if I should have my gyno reduce my micro progesterone to 100mg or if I should start inserting it vaginally (or anally 🫤). I do use Vagifem estrogen tablets vaginally 2x week. I also topically apply compounded estrogen cream with 3 mg Testosterone daily. Do I understand that if the progesterone PILL you would take orally can be inserted vaginally and therefore, less ( or no) allopregnanolone would be produced???
That happened with my twins. At week 36 I was driven to eat a lot more, and it kept up until I had them at 39.5 weeks. I remember getting up from the table, and then it was like a force drove me to sit back down and eat more. I remember telling people about it!!! Didn't happen with my other two "single" babies.
Such a valuable clarification. Understanding these nuances helps women make informed HRT choices instead of blaming themselves for changes they can’t explain.
I live in England, I’m 60 and have used HRT since I was 48. I use micronised progesterone rectally. It’s better absorbed rectally than vaginally. It’s quite common here and in Europe to use progesterone vaginally or rectally in HRT regimens.
Great, I used to use the oral one vaginally but switched back, I may try rectally - with you are you taking nightly or cycling it over 14 days ? Thanks
@JessiTelacI’m postmenopausal so I can choose either cyclical or continuous. I use 100 mg micronised progesterone rectally every night. I don’t want the pain of having periods again, and I get negative mood changes with fluctuations of progesterone.
I'm in United States & I've used the ORAL Micronized Progesterone capsule vaginally only to avoid the awful side affects & negative impacts on the liver. It works!! Yes, it does absorb systemically as well! Lab values prove that along with improvements in symptoms.
Are you using "generic" oral micronized progesterone vaginally? Because I've been told in other HRT groups, that we shouldn't use the generic vaginally.... I'm so confused!! Also, are you using 100mg or 200mg?
I gained 15% of my body weight over a 3 year period from when I began taking HRT (estradiol patch + 100mg oral progesterone). I’ve always been at or below my ideal weight until HRT. AND I eat healthier than ever before! It’s very frustrating!!
this explains ALOT! always had weight gain and cravings around periods. Gained a lot of weight on HRT- as well. and prog not protecting uterus like it should….beginning to rethink the whole thing- everything seems to go back to the liver
I was on progesterone only pill birth control for a year, and gained 20 pounds. I never had weight problems in my life. I was a little underweight most of my life.
I started using vaginal because I think we might have fewer problems with titanium dioxide, which is a carcinogenic whitening agent present in progesterone tablets. Would anyone know more about this?
Thank you for this video! It took me a long time to find out that I could avoid the severe depression and appetite disregulation, as well as aches and pains from taking oral progesterone. My doctor would not listen to me when I asked her if I could do this vaginally. I was gaslit. I knew something was wrong. I tried taking the micronized progesterone vaginally and I think it is better absorbed in the vagina, but unfortunately, about 6 days in, the depressive effects started to set in. I was taking 100 mg, which I'm sure is too high for me, as I am in perimenopause. What did work was getting a compounded troche of 50 mg and inserting that vaginally. I could take it for 10 days before my period and had none of the awful side effects.
You are brilliant!! I thank God for you cause you’re changing the landscape for postmeal women. I’m on the Wiley protocol. I cycle and get my period every month. Sometimes five days in to the luteal phase day 21 or 22 I get bleeding, very slight, but that’s when I start putting the progesterone up my vagina and everything stops and I go to day 28 and have it normal. Thank you so much for your work.!!❤️ PS I’m 71
I must be very sensitive to progesterone, gained a ton of weight when pregnant, I felt like no matter what I ate I couldn’t control it. Then in menopause put on 30 pounds on my small frame. Ate low carb because nothing else worked. Maintained a healthy weight for almost 10 years and now having issues again.
Just so women know there are lots of women who are using their oral progesterone pills vaginally and rectally but you won't get the benefits of great sleep when used that way. If you take it orally you will get the benefit of good sleep.
I actually do get sleep benefits from taking it rectally because the side effects of taking it orally kept me awake. Depending on how bad the progesterone intolerance is it can cause central nervous system problems which kept me from sleeping.
In my case, having always taken it vaginally (for the past year), I've always slept very well and soundly. And in lab tests, my progesterone levels are always very good.
Hi Felice, or someone else reading, who knows the answer: does the progesterone made for oral consumption absorb vaginally or rectally. Does the lining of the pill desinged to go through the stomach not inhibit absorption? Question number 2, ist the oral dosing of 200 mg ok to take vaginally or rectally?
Thank you Dr. Gershwin, I knew this was the reason when I started HRT I gained weight to the tune of about 10-15 lbs. I just started a glp1 to combat the weight gain because I have tried everything they say to do. I lift heavy , no carbs, high protein, intermittent fasting, 3 day fasts, jog, hike or walk at least 10k a day. No sugar, no wheat , supplements, super active, bla bla bla. It has become so depressing to be so dedicated and consistent and nothing moves the needle. Yes I am way stronger and can squat more than half my current weight now but I have seen no body recomposition after 2 yrs! I am only 5’ tall so a 10-15lb weight gain is huge. I have never been over weight and was always able to lose the weight after having each of my 4 kids due to my healthy lifestyle. If the GLP doesn’t work I am going to quit HRT even though I need it for hot flashes, mood and osteoporosis so I can get back to my normal weight. This weight gain is way worse the hot flashes I had! I’m going to ask my Naturepath to see if I can get progesterone vaginally. Dr Gersh please do a video on cycling progesterone. .
I have the same identical situation as you but don’t do all the jogging, etc. at 76. I was doing fine weight wise until my wellness doc, also an internist, started fiddling with my hrt to fix bone loss and one very scary, out of the blue period. Now I’m gaining weight just as you indicated.
Same here. 5’2 and 15 pound weight gain. I have never had a problem losing weight 3:42 before. I gained it before I Started HRT. I was hoping HRT would help me lose it. This is discouraging
Same here! I put on 35 pounds since I went on HRT back in 2012. I’m 68 and am weening myself off of my estradiol patch. I have no ovaries. My obgyn wasn’t keen on me taking the patch because of blood clots.
Dr. Gersh has already done a video or 2 on cycling progesterone. Go to her you tube channel and explore titles under "videos". Look for "cycling" and/or "progesterone" in the titles. There's one from 4 months ago and an older one from 1 year ago.
Thank you so much for this information! I just talked with my doctor this morning about my hormone medications. This was not even mentioned though I have gained 30 pounds since starting HRT. Yes, I take oral progesterone. What was offered to me for other issues was an IUD. I now have more to discuss with my doctor after watching this video, but I definitely want an alternative to oral progesterone. I hope my daughter is able to get all the facts when it is her turn and not be so confused about her options, or not even knowing the options. I had never heard of vaginal progesterone until this video.
This was so informative. Thank you! 8 months ago, I went from 100mg to 200mg progesterone. I put on weight, and it has been VERY stubborn to get off, but I didn't connect the dots until now. I have been so frustrated! I will try vaginal application. Thank you for your research and for sharing this information!
Hopefully there will be an easily dissolvable pessary and suppository option for progesterone soon. Easy for women to use and reliable dosing. If there was a dependable topical option, I'd personally go for that. Thank you Dr Gersh, as always 💛
If men went through menopause, we’d already have progesterone pumps, creams patches, all covered by insurance over the counter. Gonna have to go get my Healthcare in Mexico since it’s unaffordable here
I hope so! I do the vaginal route (it really improved my mood) but I don’t like the ingredients being in my vagina: peanut oil, titanium dioxide, etc. They need to offer a safe delivery for vaginal use.
The problem with the Progesterone weight gain is that the dosages being prescribed are not PHYSIOLOGIC doses but are PHARMACOLOGIC doses. Meaning that they are above and beyond what the body would naturally produce during the luteal phase of only about 20mg NOT 100-200mg ! High doses mimic the body getting ready for pregnancy, hence the weight gain. Read Dr. John R. Lee’s books: “What your Doctor may not tell you about Perimenopause” and “What your Doctor may not tell you about Menopause”. He is deceased but was a pioneer in women’s hormone health because he was sincerely concerned about his female patients.
I was 110 lbs my whole life until I hit menopause. I went up to 138lbs. I went on HRT because of hot flashes. I am at about 130 lbs. In my mind that is 20 lbs too much. I am a triathlete, and I have to carry this extra weight on the race course.
I've been taking micronized oral progesterone X 10 years - 100 mg day 7-14 and 200 mg day 14-24 and got rid of a bloated belly and have a hard time keeping on weight so this has not been my experience.
This video has thrown me into deep dark depression. I am about to start HRT at the age of 64. I already battle with post menopausal belly fat and can't get read of the 20 lbs.
I have been on oral progesterone since 2024 and have not noticed weight gain. It's different for everybody. My gynecologist is on 300 mg progesterone every night and is not gaining weight either.
Young surgical menopause here. No intact uterus, ovaries, tubes or cervix. I’m finally doing pretty good on estradiol patches & compound testosterone cream. I’ve tried adding progesterone orally several times from 200mg down to 25mg, fda & compounded. It never goes good. My sleep is the only thing that it helps me with. But I literally feel like I’ve been drugged 30mins after taking it & feel groggy all the time. If I had to get up to do something during the night I couldn’t even function. But after taking it a few nights I begin to get serve GI issues & stomach pain, headaches, night sweats. And my hunger/appetite is off the charts. I have never been able to tolerate the oral progesterone & never been able to stay on it very long. 😢
Dr. much thanks!! When I started the Estradiol patch only, my hip and lower back stopped hurting. After 3 months and watching your videos I asked my doctor about progesterone. Apparently she thought I had it removed. So she put me on the combipatch (expensive). After 2 weeks I had a light period, probably the shed from being on Estradiol only for 2 1/2 months. But now my hip and back are hurting again. I'm thinking it's because of the down regulation progesterone has on the estrogen growth factors. I have 2 prescriptions of patches and I will be cycling Estradiol only for 2 weeks and Combipatch 2 weeks to see if that helps my pain. I'll ask about the oral progesterone next office visit and the methods of alternative delivery you discussed, hoping she will agree. I just want my pain to stop, to feel better and drop the extra weight I've gained in the last 4 months.
Yes, I'm hoping there is more research done, after all women birthed the population of the world! I believe doctors should get a baseline on a woman's hormone levels before menopause, I don't know what the best age is for that. But I do know waiting until menopause to check hormone levels is like putting the cart before the horse.
When I went oh bHRT, estradiol, progesterone, dhea, all as topical creams, I immediately gained 12 lbs. I have always been slim with no weight issues even after having twins, and later during menopause. I assumed the weight gain was from the estrogen but, now I'm thinking it was the progesterone.
I take 200mg of micronized progesterone orally during my luteal phase. Is it more potent if I use that same 200mg vaginally or rectally since 90% of the progesterone won't be converted into metabolites by the liver? If so, should the dose be decreased when switching from an oral route to a vaginal or rectal route?
I'm peri and 200mg orally did nothing for me. I had to increase to 400. I take 200 rectally at about 7 pm and take 200 orally just before bed. I sleep fine now. Hope this helps because I was losing my mind.
@CourtesyFilmandTVMay I ask if you use the same oral progesterone rectally as well? I am taking 200mg as I am cycling it but I am sensitive to this dose so was thinking to split it that way too after reading that some women are using their oral progesterone either via the rectum or vagina.
@Sarah-GeeYes, one can insert their oral micronized progesterone capsule into the vagina or rectum. I am a patient of Dr Gersh’s and I’m currently on 300 mg of vaginal micronized progesterone (1 200mg capsule and 1 100mg capsule). She also has me do this only 14 evenings a month.
@jt8142thank you so much for your response and very reassuring that you are a direct patient of amazing Dr Gersch. By the time I am halfway through my 14 day cycle at 200mg a night, I feel absolutely in a daze and sedated. I can’t function like this anymore so finding out an alternative administration is a godsend. 🙏
I take both oral estrogen and progesterone and gained 20lbs in a few months so it came out to be about 18-20% my weight. I haven’t stopped because it helps with sleep, fatigue, hot flashes. I do wonder if I can decease my progesterone. I don’t see myself doing vaginal because that honestly sounds like a lot of effort. I am a healthcare practitioner and an important piece is also insulin resistance. I don’t crave carbs anymore with a low carb diet. @FeliceGershMD I think it would be hard for you to tease out the carb craving unless you are studying low carb individuals, is it the insulin resistant people (the typical American carb loving diet) or is it the progesterone causing these sugar and carb cravings? I lean towards the carbs being the major culprit.
❤love that this popped on my feed today. 48 years old on estrogen patch, 100mg progesterone pill and vaginal progesterone suppository and this week have been absolutely ravenous eating everything and anything and exhausted. I am at my wits end and dunno what to do.
Taking progesterone orally is like taking other sleep medications. It may seem like you get quality sleep but not really, you’re just artificially knocking yourself out. Have you tried optimizing your sleep hygiene habits? For example: 1) raise your estradiol dose (with guidance/monitoring by your MD); 2) don’t drink alcohol, especially within 6-8 hours of bedtime; 3) turn off your electronic devices at least 1 hour before going to bed; 4) don’t look at a clock if you wake up in the middle of the night; 5) keep your bedroom cool, dark & quiet; or wear earplugs and a sleep mask; 6) stop eating 3 hours before bed; and 7) don’t stay up too late. Getting optimal sleep should be one of your most important priorities in life and practicing better sleep hygiene/lifestyle factors everyday until they become second nature is well worth the effort. Good luck! 👏 😊
What about the Modena coil. The first time I place it at the age of 52 it was a life saver for me but I gained weight and my body has never been the same. I have recently started the estradiol patch.
I don't care about the FDA. I do what I have to.. think outside the box. I find Progesterone is the stabilizer. Estradiol alone for two weeks unless on Testosterone can be quite destabilising some months. I've always cycled it.
I’m on 200 progesterone now because it helps with my sleep. Initially I started on 100 mg and after 6 months I started gaining weight. However I can truly say that I had no increased appetite or cravings. I am having a heck of a time losing it. Sadly, I do not believe eating more has contributed to it. What’s more, I track my macros regularly and therefore have proof that increased calories were not the culprit. I started my HRT late at age 64 so I can’t say it’s just menopausal weight gain. Hmmm
So is it the allopregnanolone that would cause weight gain directly? Or is that it increases appetite/intake of more carbs and sugar that causes the weight gain?
No hormones will make you gain weight directly, they don’t produce energy that could be stored. So if anything it’s the appetite that causes eating in energy surplus. I feel totally fine taking progesterone and it doesn’t affect my appetite at all. So this is not true for everyone!
@HH-gv8mxMicronized Progesterone is a prescription medication. The last place you should consider obtaining it is from Amazon. Anything there will most likely be unregulated and/or counterfeit. 👎
I started taking 100 mg micronized progesterone orally about 6 weeks ago. I feel like I have no energy during the day, and have to take naps. If I stop taking it orally, and take it another way, would the sleepiness go away? I understand it helps women sleep at night, but I didn't have that problem to begin with. And then I started the estradiol patch a few weeks ago. I really don't like this lack of energy!
I've just watched this very informative video and when you say that the progesterone pill can be taken vaginally "when used cyclically" ... what exactly would that cycle look like. Thank you so much! I am 72 and have just been on estradiol patches 0.025 and progesterone 100mg capsules since early November 2026. I have been doing well on this HRT regime, until the last couple of weeks, now with tender breasts and now realizing that I have been craving carbs and sweets and gaining a bit of weight for maybe a month, maybe six weeks. I love your videos!!
Thank you for your content and sharing your knowledge and wisdom! I’ve experienced weight gain since I started hrt. Is rectal and vaginal progesterone readily available?
Dr. Gersh, what if you are very disciplined and even if the progesterone makes you feel hungry, you go to bed rather than eat and maintain your calories target calories and just simply don't over eat? When I start to feel hungry I know it's time to get into bed! No weight gain and I sleep amazing.
That's because it down regs the estrogen activity and estrogen activity slows mitochondrial ATP through a few pathways including NO production... Progesterone is likely speeding up the metabolism via freeing up the mitochondria and elevating T3 conversion and us thus stimulating the hypothalamus to send more nutri nuts are needed due to people being depleted of minerals and quality marcros
Thankyou for the great information. I’ve been on HRT for 2 months and feel much more informed and confident from your podcasts . I was diagnosed with adhd about 3 years ago and strangely you mention 12 kg . That is what I have lost over these 3 years on stimulant medication and I feel to skinny . Even 2 months on the oestrogen gel and progesterone I feel more softer and rounder . So I am happy for this side affect .
I think this was a God thing you popped up in my feed today. Since late October, I’ve been taking a progesterone capsule and have estradiol cream, but I only do the estradiol every 3 days, if that. I’ve gained 6 pounds. This has me thinking I need to up how often I use the estradiol cream.
In Switzerland and Germany women are naturally given Progesterone caps vaginally, although orally is also an option. Unfortunately, there are women like me who are very sensitive, so instead of getting calm and sleepy, like they say it should work, we get agitated, can't fall asleep, can't sleep through, wake up early, and we also have very agitated dreams, and very short phrases of deep dreaming. I tried the vaginal method for some time until it became really tiresome, even if taken in the morning. I now take it orally and hope for the best I can handle my cravings....
same here. But the caps contain titandioxide which can cause cancer so I switched back to using it vaginally but I'm not happy with the results. But maybe do some research on the titandioxide
Thank you, I have been at my wits end wondering why I couldn't lose the weight despite following a weight loss plan.
I’ve been using 100 mg of vaginal progesterone for a year now, together with transdermal estradiol. I’ve never taken it orally. I’ve already had two checkups with my gynecologist, and everything looks perfect. My bloodwork is better than ever at 53 - not only my sex hormones, but also my entire hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis and lipid profile. I couldn’t be happier!
Thanks for your comment, what is your estradiol patch level?
That’s awesome. Do you have a Dr supporting you and do you do a cyclic regimen?
Me too. I use Micronized Progesterone vaginally, and only do it 14 evenings a month. I also use estradiol and testosterone, and feel better than I have in a long time, my lab work is improved, and my osteoporosis is declining.
Would you mind telling which tests you do to check your hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis?
@jt8142 Please share how much progesterone, as well as what form and amount of testosterone, and what form and how much estrogen. Thanks!
Okay...so progesterone makes us crave carbs. We don't have to act on those cravings, do we? I've been taking oral progesterone for almost two years now. No weight gain. Eating a healthy Mediterranean diet. Not eating junk food. Fruits and veggies instead of cakes cookies and candy. No highly processed foods and alcohol only on special occasions. I sleep like a baby and my moods are regulated, thanks to progesterone. It is my savior.
Maybe you aren’t as sensitive to it. I never ate sugar and very little carbs before starting progesterone. While on it the cravings for sugar and carbs are out of control! Also, my willpower to not eat these items is gone. It has been shocking & depressing.
You must not be sensitive to it then. MOST women I have seen in my FB BHRT group CANNOT take P orally due to the weight gain, reflux, and groggy feeling the next day.
I eat a similar diet. I gave up sugar for a year. No weight loss of the 20 lbs I gained with menopause. I am a triathlete so I work out most days.
I'm losing weight slowly and getting a better shape back from hrt. I also take Berberine with meals, which has helped my appetite.
I’ve been taking 100mg of oral progesterone along with my estrogen transdermal gel. I’ve actually lost a few lbs. I weight train and try to get in 10000 steps per day. I stick to a good diet that is high in protein
2026, and HRT is still the wild, wild west. 😒
This video is earth shattering for me.
I’m now wondering if progesterone has caused my 22 lb wt gain.
I thought it was estradiol 😮
Are you on it cyclically or continuous?
Me too!
Me three 😢
Maybe try only taking the progesterone for 2 weeks per month to see if that influences weight loss. Many doctors prescribe it this way (cyclicly) to mimic the reproductive cycle.
@SydneyCollinI am doing it cyclical cannot lose thr 30 extra pounds
What should our labs look like if we have adequate progesterone?
How do we know if we’re getting enough?
You are amazing! Thank you for all the valuable information. Especially, since doctors are not educated like you are. You are a rare gem💗
i take 200mg progesterone nightly to help sleep and no weight gain
In perimenopause. I lost my appetite, struggled with sleep, was nauseaous. And started hormones. And finally i slept and ate again.
Everyone’s chemistry is so different. I’ve given BHRT 2 tries in 1 year. At 50 I lost my period, I felt like a million bucks 6 years out of menopause. Started BHRT at 56. Ever since it’s been one issue after another!!! Yes I’m osteoporotic but barely had hot flashes and my mood improved after I lost my period! Im off everything again. I think I’ll keep with the the high protein, heavy weights and taking care of myself the best way I know like I diss 6 years after menopause prior to BHRT. My experience kinda sucked! 😢
I have been doing all kind of crazy research about my excruciating hunger around 5am every day! I am 64 years old and have been on BI HT for 14 years. 200mg progesterone every night.
I have gained 7 pounds this past 2 years. I eat clean, workout and lift. Waking up dying of hunger is driving me crazy. Anyone else ?
Sounds like switching to using vaginal or rectal progesterone could help. A big switch in hunger occurred for me when I gave up wheat and other gluten grains. It was making me sooooo hungry all the time and I had no idea, til I stopped it for 3 days, an my hunger normalized for the first time in my life. I can still overeat but just find it easier to control myself toward healthier choices. It was causing immune/sensitivity reactions, and it was interesting to find out this was one! Focus on eating protein, eggs and healthy fat like butter and coconut oil and avoid sweet tastes. Stay under 20 gm of carbs. Watch Dr Boz. I like using the “Lose it” app and keeping my meals easy/simple and often the same.
Try using Berberine before each meal. I don't eat breakfast, but I have coffee with cream so I'm not hungry before noon or sometimes after.
So,one should stop the Progesterone,but continue the Estrogen while still having a full Uterus due to weight gain?
In your 60's age?
So this is why I’m so bloated and putting weight on. However on 200mg of continuous oral progesterone I’m calm and I sleep so well. So I’m either overweight and mentally better or slim and anxious 😢. I don’t think taken vaginally I would get the calm effect? Maybe I need to look at a low carb diet to help lose my weight. Menopause sure is a challenge!
Topical progesterone is helpful because it's not converted to other stuff as much.
I am the same. I love the sleep it gives me. So calming. Think I would prefer the sleep over the fat.
Hello, Dr. Gersh. I just this month STOPPED my ORAL progesterone for just this reason. I'm 61--menopause at 58. Big difference in my mood, like huge!
I'm naturally thin, however, the stress causes more fat than I was comfortable with. Already looking and feeling better. I also eat only from 8 am to 3 pm. More huge changes. Thank you for this great info. Hope it helps many ❤❤❤❤
Hi! Question: you stopped progesterone therapy completely or switched to rectal or vaginal? Thank you!
@lolafalulaSwitched to anal suppositories only! Better than vaginal (messy!) 😊 ❤
So , is this the reason I gained almost 15lbs since I started HRT😢. I’m desperate , I was thin even in menopause, but the moment I started estrogen and progesterone I gained all this weight . Plus I got my period all over again
Could be the Estrogen though. Micronized Progesterone usually acts as a diaretic.
@o@onewomansjourney760at’s what I thought until I saw this . I’m so confused all along I thought it was the estrogen , now it turns out it could be the progesterone as well
Hi Dr. Gersh! I haven't experienced weight gain using 100-200 mg of oral Prometrium (3 weeks per month), nor have I experienced any sugar/carb cravings. However, I DO want to use the best delivery method and not overdose on allopregnanolone. My question is whether using progesterone vaginally or rectally will work as well as oral to induce sleep. The week I take off from oral progesterone, I can't sleep more than a few fitful hours.
I don’t get it. If oral progesterone makes us gain weight, then without HRT we’d have no progesterone or allopregnanolone at all and should stay slim. But most women don’t take HRT during menopause and still gain weight. So this can’t be only about taking progesterone orally.
A lot of that weight is in the belly, in the form of visceral fat. Estrogen taken during menopause helps keep this visceral fat away. What Dr. Gersh is talking about is subcutaneous fat, such as in the hips and thighs.
Ive put on fat....but don't have cravings and am not hungry!
You dont need to convince me, its my prescribing doctor that needs convinced 🙄 Im pretty close to stopping hrt altogether and that wasn't what I wanted after almost a year. For every positive benefit Ive had, I've had double the negative effects.
I hope you can persuade your doctor! ❤ 🙏🏻
There are many benefits to HRT that you can't see and that you forgot about. You have a REDuced risk of alsheimers & dementia, you have a reduced risk of osteoporosis ( you can't feel your bones loosing density) and you have a reduced risk of cardiovascular events. Stay on the hrt and just improve your diet. Start with baby steps.
Progesterone immediately caused severe dysphagia in me! I mean, I ate without stopping unless I was asleep. (I had other intolerable progesterone side effects, too, but this video wasn't about that. I called that Prometrium 100mg capsule the medicine from hell.)
I was ravenous also then anxiety suicidal
I appreciate the effort these dooctors and researchers are putting ou
t. I wish i had even 1/2 the info 10 years ago. Yes, there are many different bits of info out here here but everyone is still learning, the doctors included. Give some grace and appreciation that we are getting information after far too long without it.
This is one of the most important videos on progesterone with HRT that I have seen. Thank you, Dr. Gersh!
This explains a lot. 200-300 mg oral progesterone for sleep. I’ve gained a lot of weight
I'm using 300mg daily and my weight is the same
After my hysterectomy September 2025, my Gyno increased my oral micro progesterone from 100 to 200mg nightly.
I have been fasting 12-18 hours several days a week, walking 30 minutes 4-5x week and going to the gym to lift (not heavy) ---- *unfortunately not too consistent with the gym*, maybe 5 x month. I have not been able to lose a pound.
This podcast makes me wonder if I should have my gyno reduce my micro progesterone to 100mg or if I should start inserting it vaginally (or anally 🫤). I do use Vagifem estrogen tablets vaginally 2x week. I also topically apply compounded estrogen cream with 3 mg Testosterone daily.
Do I understand that if the progesterone PILL you would take orally can be inserted vaginally and therefore, less ( or no) allopregnanolone would be produced???
@dianem7815following
Another great video. Thank you Dr Felice. You make a huge impact. Blessed to have found your channel.
That happened with my twins. At week 36 I was driven to eat a lot more, and it kept up until I had them at 39.5 weeks. I remember getting up from the table, and then it was like a force drove me to sit back down and eat more. I remember telling people about it!!! Didn't happen with my other two "single" babies.
So now I understand that my weight gain is caused by the 200 mg of progesterone I take each night! Thank you Dr. Gersh!
That seems like a very high-dose.Most people take one hundred twelve to fourteen days a month. .
I cycle 200 mg for 20 days on 10 off. I haven't gained weight from it. It helps with bloating.
I’m so glad you discussed this.
Dr Gersh to the rescue! OMG this is incredibly valuable to hear... I'm going to investigate the non-oral options THANK YOU.
What good news . I have always been underweight
Good for you,most of us are not.
Such a valuable clarification. Understanding these nuances helps women make informed HRT choices instead of blaming themselves for changes they can’t explain.
I much prefer Combi Patch to oral
progesterone. Too much bloating and drowsiness with Prometrium.
I'm 58. 4 months ago I started taking progesterone orally and my weight just ballooned. Now I stopped and my weight is back to normal.
How were you able to stop- I have insomnia when I try to reduce?
I live in England, I’m 60 and have used HRT since I was 48. I use micronised progesterone rectally. It’s better absorbed rectally than vaginally. It’s quite common here and in Europe to use progesterone vaginally or rectally in HRT regimens.
Hello, do you need to use progesterone every night when administered vaginally or rectally?
@JessiTelac Yes if you are no longer menstruating as it protects your uterus from becoming too thick.
Great, I used to use the oral one vaginally but switched back, I may try rectally - with you are you taking nightly or cycling it over 14 days ? Thanks
@JessiTelacI’m postmenopausal so I can choose either cyclical or continuous. I use 100 mg micronised progesterone rectally every night. I don’t want the pain of having periods again, and I get negative mood changes with fluctuations of progesterone.
Is the progesterone you use rectally the same as the one taken orally? Or is it specific for rectal intake?
I'm in United States & I've used the ORAL Micronized Progesterone capsule vaginally only to avoid the awful side affects & negative impacts on the liver. It works!! Yes, it does absorb systemically as well! Lab values prove that along with improvements in symptoms.
Are you using "generic" oral micronized progesterone vaginally? Because I've been told in other HRT groups, that we shouldn't use the generic vaginally.... I'm so confused!! Also, are you using 100mg or 200mg?
@CarmQwould love to know this too
Do you take the same dosage vaginally? Since it won’t go through First Pass Effect in the liver shouldn’t the dose be lower for vaginal placement.
I gained 15% of my body weight over a 3 year period from when I began taking HRT (estradiol patch + 100mg oral progesterone). I’ve always been at or below my ideal weight until HRT. AND I eat healthier than ever before! It’s very frustrating!!
Good vid, thanks for the time to make
Thank you so much for this!
this explains ALOT! always had weight gain and cravings around periods. Gained a lot of weight on HRT- as well. and prog not protecting uterus like it should….beginning to rethink the whole thing- everything seems to go back to the liver
I was on progesterone only pill birth control for a year, and gained 20 pounds. I never had weight problems in my life. I was a little underweight most of my life.
I started using vaginal because I think we might have fewer problems with titanium dioxide, which is a carcinogenic whitening agent present in progesterone tablets. Would anyone know more about this?
Thank you for this video! It took me a long time to find out that I could avoid the severe depression and appetite disregulation, as well as aches and pains from taking oral progesterone. My doctor would not listen to me when I asked her if I could do this vaginally. I was gaslit. I knew something was wrong.
I tried taking the micronized progesterone vaginally and I think it is better absorbed in the vagina, but unfortunately, about 6 days in, the depressive effects started to set in. I was taking 100 mg, which I'm sure is too high for me, as I am in perimenopause. What did work was getting a compounded troche of 50 mg and inserting that vaginally. I could take it for 10 days before my period and had none of the awful side effects.
This is priceless information! Thank you!
Why not submucousally (dissolved in cheek) as a compounded troche?
You are brilliant!! I thank God for you cause you’re changing the landscape for postmeal women. I’m on the Wiley protocol. I cycle and get my period every month. Sometimes five days in to the luteal phase day 21 or 22 I get bleeding, very slight, but that’s when I start putting the progesterone up my vagina and everything stops and I go to day 28 and have it normal. Thank you so much for your work.!!❤️ PS I’m 71
I must be very sensitive to progesterone, gained a ton of weight when pregnant, I felt like no matter what I ate I couldn’t control it. Then in menopause put on 30 pounds on my small frame. Ate low carb because nothing else worked. Maintained a healthy weight for almost 10 years and now having issues again.
WOW...VERY interesting. thank you!!
Just so women know there are lots of women who are using their oral progesterone pills vaginally and rectally but you won't get the benefits of great sleep when used that way. If you take it orally you will get the benefit of good sleep.
Thank you this is very helpful information!
I actually do get sleep benefits from taking it rectally because the side effects of taking it orally kept me awake. Depending on how bad the progesterone intolerance is it can cause central nervous system problems which kept me from sleeping.
@llbears1Me too. I sleep much better when I take micronized progesterone vaginally instead of orally. 👏 😊
In my case, having always taken it vaginally (for the past year), I've always slept very well and soundly. And in lab tests, my progesterone levels are always very good.
I switched to vaginal and fortunately I still get the sleepy effect that I did on oral. It’s not nearly as strong though.
Hi Felice, or someone else reading, who knows the answer: does the progesterone made for oral consumption absorb vaginally or rectally. Does the lining of the pill desinged to go through the stomach not inhibit absorption? Question number 2, ist the oral dosing of 200 mg ok to take vaginally or rectally?
Thank you Dr. Gershwin, I knew this was the reason when I started HRT I gained weight to the tune of about 10-15 lbs. I just started a glp1 to combat the weight gain because I have tried everything they say to do. I lift heavy , no carbs, high protein, intermittent fasting, 3 day fasts, jog, hike or walk at least 10k a day. No sugar, no wheat , supplements, super active, bla bla bla. It has become so depressing to be so dedicated and consistent and nothing moves the needle. Yes I am way stronger and can squat more than half my current weight now but I have seen no body recomposition after 2 yrs! I am only 5’ tall so a 10-15lb weight gain is huge. I have never been over weight and was always able to lose the weight after having each of my 4 kids due to my healthy lifestyle. If the GLP doesn’t work I am going to quit HRT even though I need it for hot flashes, mood and osteoporosis so I can get back to my normal weight. This weight gain is way worse the hot flashes I had! I’m going to ask my Naturepath to see if I can get progesterone vaginally.
Dr Gersh please do a video on cycling progesterone.
.
I have the same identical situation as you but don’t do all the jogging, etc. at 76. I was doing fine weight wise until my wellness doc, also an internist, started fiddling with my hrt to fix bone loss and one very scary, out of the blue period. Now I’m gaining weight just as you indicated.
Same with me! 😢
Same here. 5’2 and 15 pound weight gain. I have never had a problem losing weight 3:42 before. I gained it before I Started HRT. I was hoping HRT would help me lose it. This is discouraging
Same here! I put on 35 pounds since I went on HRT back in 2012. I’m 68 and am weening myself off of my estradiol patch. I have no ovaries. My obgyn wasn’t keen on me taking the patch because of blood clots.
Dr. Gersh has already done a video or 2 on cycling progesterone. Go to her you tube channel and explore titles under "videos". Look for "cycling" and/or "progesterone" in the titles. There's one from 4 months ago and an older one from 1 year ago.
Thank you so much for this information! I just talked with my doctor this morning about my hormone medications. This was not even mentioned though I have gained 30 pounds since starting HRT. Yes, I take oral progesterone. What was offered to me for other issues was an IUD. I now have more to discuss with my doctor after watching this video, but I definitely want an alternative to oral progesterone. I hope my daughter is able to get all the facts when it is her turn and not be so confused about her options, or not even knowing the options. I had never heard of vaginal progesterone until this video.
This was so informative. Thank you! 8 months ago, I went from 100mg to 200mg progesterone. I put on weight, and it has been VERY stubborn to get off, but I didn't connect the dots until now. I have been so frustrated! I will try vaginal application. Thank you for your research and for sharing this information!
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge 🙏 🎉
Thank you for this video doc
def. more hungry and harder to reach satiety!
Hopefully there will be an easily dissolvable pessary and suppository option for progesterone soon. Easy for women to use and reliable dosing. If there was a dependable topical option, I'd personally go for that. Thank you Dr Gersh, as always 💛
Yes. Thankful for this video
If men went through menopause, we’d already have progesterone pumps, creams patches, all covered by insurance over the counter. Gonna have to go get my Healthcare in Mexico since it’s unaffordable here
I hope so! I do the vaginal route (it really improved my mood) but I don’t like the ingredients being in my vagina: peanut oil, titanium dioxide, etc. They need to offer a safe delivery for vaginal use.
@deuxjournalistes2993that shouldn’t be if you’re getting compounded P
I dont understand it firSt you mqke video and recomend it oraly now you dont im confused
Thank you!
Thank you very much 🙏
The problem with the Progesterone weight gain is that the dosages being prescribed are not PHYSIOLOGIC doses but are PHARMACOLOGIC doses. Meaning that they are above and beyond what the body would naturally produce during the luteal phase of only about 20mg NOT 100-200mg ! High doses mimic the body getting ready for pregnancy, hence the weight gain. Read Dr. John R. Lee’s books: “What your Doctor may not tell you about Perimenopause” and “What your Doctor may not tell you about Menopause”. He is deceased but was a pioneer in women’s hormone health because he was sincerely concerned about his female patients.
Makes sense! I went down myself from 200mg Arefam 12days/month orally to 100mg Utrogestan 15 days/month, vaginally. I feel much better now.
@dianajo03me too 🎉
I was 110 lbs my whole life until I hit menopause. I went up to 138lbs. I went on HRT because of hot flashes. I am at about 130 lbs. In my mind that is 20 lbs too much. I am a triathlete, and I have to carry this extra weight on the race course.
Regarding carb cravings could the cortisol steal be occuring thus the body wants sweet things to shut of cortisol.
I've been taking micronized oral progesterone X 10 years - 100 mg day 7-14 and 200 mg day 14-24 and got rid of a bloated belly and have a hard time keeping on weight so this has not been my experience.
With what dose of estradiol patch?
Take vaginal progesterone
I’m taking the tablet orally
This video has thrown me into deep dark depression. I am about to start HRT at the age of 64. I already battle with post menopausal belly fat and can't get read of the 20 lbs.
I have been on oral progesterone since 2024 and have not noticed weight gain. It's different for everybody. My gynecologist is on 300 mg progesterone every night and is not gaining weight either.
Would the mirena coil be an option for you (instead of oral progesterone)?
Young surgical menopause here. No intact uterus, ovaries, tubes or cervix. I’m finally doing pretty good on estradiol patches & compound testosterone cream. I’ve tried adding progesterone orally several times from 200mg down to 25mg, fda & compounded. It never goes good. My sleep is the only thing that it helps me with. But I literally feel like I’ve been drugged 30mins after taking it & feel groggy all the time. If I had to get up to do something during the night I couldn’t even function. But after taking it a few nights I begin to get serve GI issues & stomach pain, headaches, night sweats. And my hunger/appetite is off the charts. I have never been able to tolerate the oral progesterone & never been able to stay on it very long. 😢
I don't tolerate orally only vaginal
Dr. much thanks!!
When I started the Estradiol patch only, my hip and lower back stopped hurting. After 3 months and watching your videos I asked my doctor about progesterone. Apparently she thought I had it removed. So she put me on the combipatch (expensive). After 2 weeks I had a light period, probably the shed from being on Estradiol only for 2 1/2 months. But now my hip and back are hurting again. I'm thinking it's because of the down regulation progesterone has on the estrogen growth factors. I have 2 prescriptions of patches and I will be cycling Estradiol only for 2 weeks and Combipatch 2 weeks to see if that helps my pain. I'll ask about the oral progesterone next office visit and the methods of alternative delivery you discussed, hoping she will agree. I just want my pain to stop, to feel better and drop the extra weight I've gained in the last 4 months.
Yes, I'm hoping there is more research done, after all women birthed the population of the world! I believe doctors should get a baseline on a woman's hormone levels before menopause, I don't know what the best age is for that. But I do know waiting until menopause to check hormone levels is like putting the cart before the horse.
So true!!!
When I went oh bHRT, estradiol, progesterone, dhea, all as topical creams, I immediately gained 12 lbs. I have always been slim with no weight issues even after having twins, and later during menopause. I assumed the weight gain was from the estrogen but, now I'm thinking it was the progesterone.
I take 200mg of micronized progesterone orally during my luteal phase. Is it more potent if I use that same 200mg vaginally or rectally since 90% of the progesterone won't be converted into metabolites by the liver? If so, should the dose be decreased when switching from an oral route to a vaginal or rectal route?
I'm peri and 200mg orally did nothing for me. I had to increase to 400. I take 200 rectally at about 7 pm and take 200 orally just before bed. I sleep fine now. Hope this helps because I was losing my mind.
@CourtesyFilmandTVMay I ask if you use the same oral progesterone rectally as well? I am taking 200mg as I am cycling it but I am sensitive to this dose so was thinking to split it that way too after reading that some women are using their oral progesterone either via the rectum or vagina.
@Sarah-GeeYes, one can insert their oral micronized progesterone capsule into the vagina or rectum. I am a patient of Dr Gersh’s and I’m currently on 300 mg of vaginal micronized progesterone (1 200mg capsule and 1 100mg capsule). She also has me do this only 14 evenings a month.
@jt8142thank you so much for your response and very reassuring that you are a direct patient of amazing Dr Gersch. By the time I am halfway through my 14 day cycle at 200mg a night, I feel absolutely in a daze and sedated. I can’t function like this anymore so finding out an alternative administration is a godsend. 🙏
@jt8142 Have you had A problem with gaining weight?
I take both oral estrogen and progesterone and gained 20lbs in a few months so it came out to be about 18-20% my weight. I haven’t stopped because it helps with sleep, fatigue, hot flashes. I do wonder if I can decease my progesterone. I don’t see myself doing vaginal because that honestly sounds like a lot of effort. I am a healthcare practitioner and an important piece is also insulin resistance. I don’t crave carbs anymore with a low carb diet. @FeliceGershMD I think it would be hard for you to tease out the carb craving unless you are studying low carb individuals, is it the insulin resistant people (the typical American carb loving diet) or is it the progesterone causing these sugar and carb cravings? I lean towards the carbs being the major culprit.
DOB 1970’s. 100ug e-patch q AM, 100mg progesterone a PM. 5’ 8” / 145lbs; 173cm/65kg.
❤love that this popped on my feed today. 48 years old on estrogen patch, 100mg progesterone pill and vaginal progesterone suppository and this week have been absolutely ravenous eating everything and anything and exhausted. I am at my wits end and dunno what to do.
I need oral progesterone to sleep. It hasn’t changed my appetite or weight at all after a year.
Taking progesterone orally is like taking other sleep medications. It may seem like you get quality sleep but not really, you’re just artificially knocking yourself out.
Have you tried optimizing your sleep hygiene habits? For example: 1) raise your estradiol dose (with guidance/monitoring by your MD); 2) don’t drink alcohol, especially within 6-8 hours of bedtime; 3) turn off your electronic devices at least 1 hour before going to bed; 4) don’t look at a clock if you wake up in the middle of the night; 5) keep your bedroom cool, dark & quiet; or wear earplugs and a sleep mask; 6) stop eating 3 hours before bed; and 7) don’t stay up too late. Getting optimal sleep should be one of your most important priorities in life and practicing better sleep hygiene/lifestyle factors everyday until they become second nature is well worth the effort. Good luck! 👏 😊
@jt8142🤬😡Who r u to put down her claim of her oral progesterone helping her sleep??!! It's not just another sleeping pill genius!!
That’s what I use for cannot be without
I optimize my sleep habits and I'm on hrt and still NEVER sleep through the night. ☹️
What about using a Mirena IUD with hormone replacement therapy in menopause
🙏👍🤍⭐️💫✨🤍⭐️💫✨🤍⭐️💫✨🤍⭐️💫✨🤍👍🙏
What about the Modena coil. The first time I place it at the age of 52 it was a life saver for me but I gained weight and my body has never been the same. I have recently started the estradiol patch.
I take progesterone orally to finally sleep, my life is so much better !
I don't care about the FDA. I do what I have to.. think outside the box. I find Progesterone is the stabilizer. Estradiol alone for two weeks unless on Testosterone can be quite destabilising some months. I've always cycled it.
We should steal our husbands testosterone
May I ask what dosage of progesterone are you cycling, and what dosage of estradiol are you on?
I’m on 200 progesterone now because it helps with my sleep. Initially I started on 100 mg and after 6 months I started gaining weight. However I can truly say that I had no increased appetite or cravings. I am having a heck of a time losing it. Sadly, I do not believe eating more has contributed to it. What’s more, I track my macros regularly and therefore have proof that increased calories were not the culprit. I started my HRT late at age 64 so I can’t say it’s just menopausal weight gain. Hmmm
Just what I needed! Thanks for this. I couldn’t tolerate the oral progesterone it made me tierd and wobbly
So is it the allopregnanolone that would cause weight gain directly? Or is that it increases appetite/intake of more carbs and sugar that causes the weight gain?
No hormones will make you gain weight directly, they don’t produce energy that could be stored. So if anything it’s the appetite that causes eating in energy surplus. I feel totally fine taking progesterone and it doesn’t affect my appetite at all. So this is not true for everyone!
If Progesteron is taken vaginally, do we have to take less or more???
Can you get it on Amazon?
@HH-gv8mxMicronized Progesterone is a prescription medication. The last place you should consider obtaining it is from Amazon. Anything there will most likely be unregulated and/or counterfeit. 👎
Same amount, according to my gynecologist. If you sleep well without it, vaginally is even better as it doesnt go through the liver.
@Dharmagoose who mentioned anything rectal? It goes through the liver if you take it orally.
Would be good if o know what good numbers should be for progesterone and estrogen
Also other like testosterone and dhea ?
I started taking 100 mg micronized progesterone orally about 6 weeks ago. I feel like I have no energy during the day, and have to take naps. If I stop taking it orally, and take it another way, would the sleepiness go away? I understand it helps women sleep at night, but I didn't have that problem to begin with. And then I started the estradiol patch a few weeks ago. I really don't like this lack of energy!
How do you get started on bhrt?
Are you in the US? They recommend using it vaginally to avoid side effects here in the US
I've just watched this very informative video and when you say that the progesterone pill can be taken vaginally "when used cyclically" ... what exactly would that cycle look like. Thank you so much! I am 72 and have just been on estradiol patches 0.025 and progesterone 100mg capsules since early November 2026. I have been doing well on this HRT regime, until the last couple of weeks, now with tender breasts and now realizing that I have been craving carbs and sweets and gaining a bit of weight for maybe a month, maybe six weeks. I love your videos!!
Please address if you feel transdermal progesterone is ok if you have zero intact lady parts? How do you know how to dose transdermal progesterone?
Rats and mice should never get sick at this point
But having constipation
I’m trying to get enough water
Fiber
Exercise etc
But still 😢
Sublingual Troche rocks! Most of it is absorbed into bloodstream directly!
Do these actually exist?
I didn't know y'all were taking this stuff up the ass 😫 I'm not there yet, but I'm researching. Wish me luck!
You are funny 😂
😂😂😂
Im on that regimen w patch 0.75 mg twice a week w the progesterone
Thank you for your content and sharing your knowledge and wisdom! I’ve experienced weight gain since I started hrt. Is rectal and vaginal progesterone readily available?
Dr. Gersh, what if you are very disciplined and even if the progesterone makes you feel hungry, you go to bed rather than eat and maintain your calories target calories and just simply don't over eat? When I start to feel hungry I know it's time to get into bed! No weight gain and I sleep amazing.
That's because it down regs the estrogen activity and estrogen activity slows mitochondrial ATP through a few pathways including NO production... Progesterone is likely speeding up the metabolism via freeing up the mitochondria and elevating T3 conversion and us thus stimulating the hypothalamus to send more nutri nuts are needed due to people being depleted of minerals and quality marcros
Thankyou for the great information. I’ve been on HRT for 2 months and feel much more informed and confident from your podcasts . I was diagnosed with adhd about 3 years ago and strangely you mention 12 kg . That is what I have lost over these 3 years on stimulant medication and I feel to skinny . Even 2 months on the oestrogen gel and progesterone I feel more softer and rounder . So I am happy for this side affect .
Vyvance 40 mg . I like the effect of progesterone orally and gave the best sleep I’ve had in years . Just turned 50
Are bone benefits reduced when progesterone is not taken orally?
Bone benefits come from estradiol
I think this was a God thing you popped up in my feed today. Since late October, I’ve been taking a progesterone capsule and have estradiol cream, but I only do the estradiol every 3 days, if that. I’ve gained 6 pounds. This has me thinking I need to up how often I use the estradiol cream.
For those taking only progesterone…if it is stopped, does the weight come back off?
In Switzerland and Germany women are naturally given Progesterone caps vaginally, although orally is also an option. Unfortunately, there are women like me who are very sensitive, so instead of getting calm and sleepy, like they say it should work, we get agitated, can't fall asleep, can't sleep through, wake up early, and we also have very agitated dreams, and very short phrases of deep dreaming. I tried the vaginal method for some time until it became really tiresome, even if taken in the morning. I now take it orally and hope for the best I can handle my cravings....
same here. But the caps contain titandioxide which can cause cancer so I switched back to using it vaginally but I'm not happy with the results. But maybe do some research on the titandioxide