A new study shows that natural progesterone1 given to women considered at high risk for preterm delivery significantly reduced the number of women with preterm labor and delivery, especially preventing preterm delivery before 34 weeks.
The study used 100 mg of natural micronized progesterone in a daily vaginal suppository from week 24 to week 36. This study supports another recent study that explained how progesterone is able to support healthy pregnancy: by directly helping the fetal membrane tolerate inflammation and maintain its structural integrity.
Many women run low on progesterone due to stress, as the progesterone is shunted into making stress hormones. This is very problematic during pregnancy, as the lack of progesterone can cause miscarriage or early delivery. However, it is also problematic to menstruating women as it creates a relative surplus of estrogen leading to menstrual heavy bleeding, headaches, or other symptoms of PMS.
Another recent study indicates that progesterone can help protect your brain, even from serious inflammation (in both men and women). And of course, progesterone is a bone building hormone2 that is important for any woman concerned about bone health.
I was one of the pioneers in the use of micronized natural progesterone to help women with their female health. I have seen it work splendidly in many difficult pregnancy situations, helping to stop spotting, cramping, and premature labor. It is nice to see studies that help support the obvious need of this important hormone.
Progesterone Helps Prevent Preterm Birth
Byron J. Richards, Board Certified Clinical Nutritionist
