Progesterone & HRT: What it does, benefits in HRT, & dosing tips | Felice Gersh, MD

[@joannsmith3589]

Thank you. The first doctor gave me this cyclic thing. and then i changed insurance went to see another doctor and she wanted to give me the progesterone every day (half the dose) and it did not seem right to me ... but obviously being doctors or nurses they did not want to hear it, when I drilled down.. so basically i take 2 progesterones (2x100) 12 days a month... ah... so glad I came across this video... !!! Thank you!... crazy that I pay so much money for healthcare and I have to DIY and I don't know anything ... Thank you for KZbin. Thank you for your video...

[@sbc8730]

What day do you start progesterone? And when do you stop? I need to start cycling ASAP. Thank you ❤

[@kimlarso]

@@sbc8730don’t you just love those who lost a question expecting a reply but don’t respect nor appreciate when their asked a question 🙃

[@astralartist4]

So are u nowctaking it the 12-14 days a month?

[@bjrgstre-mauger5398]

Can you explain your routine please? When you cycle how much Estrodial for how long? Then day 12 do you start with 200mg progesterone or lower dose? How long for?

[@johannaschubert6398]

We never even met and I feel like u r rooting for me. I love your brilliant brain! I feel like my mind is so sluggish compared to your energy, quick thinking and memory. Thank you!! ❤

[@velocitygirl8551]

Thank you for fighting for us through the Women’s Health Initiative!! 💖💖💖

[@opheliazen]

Wow, I think this situation with the thyroid is exactly what happened to me. My progesterone was way low but dr treated me for low T3 and then the thyroid meds put me way out of whack. Thank you for your brilliance, Dr. Gersh!

[@k8marlowe]

I am over the moon to have found your channel! I only wish I had discovered you years ago. I had my one and only child at 36. To the surprise of my doctor and myself, I was post-menopausal by my next annual OBGYN visit, a year later. I tried traditional HRT then, but the debilitating migraine it caused scared me away from trying again, to my utter regret, as I was unprepared for the rapid deterioration of my bones, youth, body and femininity. (Goodbye libido). ☹️ Your videos have given me answers to questions I didn’t even know to ask. Thank you so much!

[@jessicahitchens6926]

Yea I've heard of that before. The body isn't able to reset itself after pregnancy. It's usually mid 30s to mid 40s range. Shocking when it happens.

[@auaticamazon]

Thanks for the education. I’m post hysterectomy and after your talks insisted on getting progesterone from my resistant doctor . My blood pressure lowered and became more regulated , my electrolytes normalized , my kidney function improved , I sleep better and feel overall much better. I’m going to go to cycling after this specific talk. Thank you !!!

[@briana9833]

What kind of progesterone are you taking?. I have been prescribed prometrium and estrogen cream, but I am kind of afraid of side effects😢😢

[@auaticamazon]

@@briana9833 same as you micronised oral human identical progesterone

[@auaticamazon]

@@briana9833 I would be more afraid of effects of hormone deficiency which is linked to acceleration of chronic diseases

[@c.ymcbray3123]

Prometrium ​should be a micronized Progesterone (at least mine is in Canada), which is the body-identical good progesterone Dr. Gersh refers to. Just be sure to only take it Day 12-26 @@briana9833

[@kimlarso]

@@briana9833micronized progesterone is best

[@lightbulb888]

Forget about your skin that it's amazing. I'll do anything you do just to have your brains agility and memory, especially at your age omg!! ❤❤❤😊🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@user-xs9835]

I have to compliment you on the way you look today doctor! ❤ Thank you for your helpful information!

[@katrinabennett2759]

I noticed how great she looks today too! ❤

[@kimperry2199]

I was blessed to work with Dr. Gersh for several years and this method worked well for me. My brain and body felt great. When I switched to another clinic because I moved I stopped the cyclic method and developed too many side effects to continue my therapy. I'm going back to this approach and hope to be able to work with Dr. Gersh again!

[@CJRenee]

Hi, i have a question.... Dr . Gresh, mention to take the progesterone for 14 days, then stop. How many day s are you off before you start back? My doctor put me on 200 mg every night. Thanks for any help you can provide.

[@auaticamazon]

@@CJRenee. 2 weeks on 200 mg and 2 weeks on progesterone

[@heidixxx2454]

@@auaticamazon Do you mean 2 weeks on 200mg progesterone and then 2 weeks of zero progesterone?

[@calista1280]

​@@heidixxx2454yes

[@evan7852]

But estradiol continues

[@funtimefranky]

I had a hysterectomy and oophorectomy over a year ago and have been asking health professionals why progesterone wasn’t a part of my HRT if its benefits go beyond having babies. Not one had an answer. Thank you for this!

[@katc9405]

Thank you doc! 🙏🏼 I truly hope that everyone, especially women now realize just how Progesterone is as important as Estradiol. I find that it typically overlooked.

[@jessicahitchens6926]

People whom know their stuff always said Progesterone was vital.

[@angiesserendipity6189]

Another great video. Thank you, Dr. Gersh. Oh, and I i must say, you look terrific!

[@katherineb9]

i am so intrigued by the cycling of HRT. so little doctors talk about this. Thank you for this information !

[@janealsop8672]

I am about to turn 70 and I have been on the Wiley protocol since I was 55 cycling and getting my period do take progesterone but it’s not a static dose of 200 mg. It slowly increases after starting on the 14th day. I have always exercised and eaten well, I feel like 1 million bucks. I am so grateful for you because you are one of the few doctors that understand cycling and the importance of hormone replacement therapy. Have you heard of the Wiley protocol and what do you think about it? Would love to know I have an identical, twin sister who’s done this exact same thing and we would, never go off these warm even at age 70 I get a four-day bleed😊

[@Leamoyer]

Is the bleed heavy ?

[@bluejean-1968]

The WP gave me hair loss. Since stopping it, my hair has grown back. I also gained 20lbs with a suppressed thyroid function. I couldn't absorb 20% progesterone cream because the molecules were too large. 5% cream works. I wish it worked for me but it didn't.

[@essanjay8604]

Can you elaborate a little on how you increase your dose of progesterone?

[@janealsop8672]

@@essanjay8604 I could send you a picture of my progesterone packet, which shows specifically how much I’m taking each day if I could. Would that be OK?

[@janealsop8672]

@@Leamoyer well my bleed varies. But mostly it’s 4 to 5 days and I do have a couple of days that is moderate and then it dies off. Hope that helps.

[@barbaras.5545]

Dr. Gersh, I wish you could clone yourself a million times over; you are a gem!

[@bluebell1924]

Very important info, thank you! Louise Newson gives progesterone vaginal if oral is not tolerated. She said it is even possible to use the oral capsule off-label vaginally.

[@CTTully]

Love your informative videos! Please do address the possibility of sleep issues for the 14 days you are off 200mg oral Progesterone. I would like to try the cyclical routine so I can tell if I am actually on enough Estradiol by having a small period. 0ne of my biggest issues I had before going on HRT was sleep disturbances (waking and not being able to go back to sleep for 1.5-2 hours....ugh!) I'm 57 been on HRT about 2 years with a lot of adjusting (basically due to my own research to get things under control) and now I seem regulated on .05 patch estradiol, 2mg testosterone bioidentical cream and I have been taking micronized 100mg Progesterone vaginally each night (was having an issue with frequent spotting but may have been that my estradiol was too high even though I was taking 200mg orally nightly). All seems good except I'm still having sleep issues. Dr. Gersh, what are your thoughts on using Progesterone off-label vaginally? Does that route help with sleep? I'm thinking it does not. Thank you so much!

[@katc9405]

Please talk about the synthetic progestin in IUDs. We women have been misinformed about it being like progesterone.

[@kpthenut1]

A female GP insisted to me it was natural progesterone and i kept saying it’s a progestogen so she finally looked it up and then quietly said oh yes…they are so misinformed!

[@jessicahitchens6926]

I don't listen to them. I would never get a device in that region. It's insane. You have no control at all..

[@jeepgurl1379]

A million thank yous! I have been told by my functional doc that I make sufficient T4 but very little T3 but lots of RT3. Can you talk about why we make RT3?

[@AimeeWooster]

Gah. Thanks for the insomnia comments. I am on 300 mg Progesterone, and finally sleeping. Sometimes, I still wake up for a few hours, then go back to sleep for a couple of hours. I have severe insomnia after a job years ago, when menopause hit I stopped sleeping and my Trazodone no longer helped. My insomnia is that without Trazodone I would not sleep a wink. I am not post-menopause. After finally getting up to 300 mg progesterone I sleep again. I'm worried if I cycle I won't sleep. I'd love to hear feedback from anyone who is cycling and has insomnia.

[@ZsuzsaKarolySmith]

I would say do what you need to do to feel ok. Insomnia is terrible and has all sorts of negative effects on your health. I sleep much better now that I take 100mg progesterone continuously. I would never consider cycling the progesterone! For one thing, if you are still in perimenopause, your uterine lining can get too thick in those two weeks without progesterone, and you could end up with very heavy periods.

[@msmc2685]

I had that same kind of insomnia for years. It wasn’t until I got my estradiol levels up to a high level (300) that it got much better.

[@dechengyalmo09]

@@ZsuzsaKarolySmiththen maybe taking DHEA would be a solution (depending on ones hormon levels) from which estrogen, progesterone and testosterone can be synthesized in the body, thus there will be a base level of these hormones.Then cycling will be more easy. Supplenting Melationin, 5 HTP, precursors of GABA, Ashwaganda helps for sleeping better and lowering Cortisol (Stress)

[@jessicahitchens6926]

You mean peri or transition. Meno pause is cessation of menses.

[@dechengyalmo09]

@@jessicahitchens6926 i had only 2 1/2 months not my period, then it came every 2 weeks for 2 months, and now every 3 week, days increasing

[@susan97701]

Hello Dr. Gersh. I have two questions. Isn't there some progesterone in the body all month? And, how can the progestone work on the thyroid, bones, etc. if only dosing for two weeks out of the month? Thank you for your videos.

[@janicehenning4505]

I've noticed she doesn't answer questions on her videos.

[@ZsuzsaKarolySmith]

I agree with everything you say, other than trying to emulate a natural menstrual cycle. Surely, if you take progesterone continuously and in the right amounts to counteract the amount of oestrogen in the HRT, you could achieve better hormone balance than the ups and downs of our premenopausal years? And really who wants to have a menstrual cycle in their 60s, 70s, 80s and beyond?

[@tammysims8716]

Thank you! I'm like what is she talking about!

[@lifewithmargot]

I don’t want it back for sure

[@tammysims8716]

@@lifewithmargot Not having to have a menstrual cycle anymore was a day of deliverance and freedom. It was one of the only things good to come from menopause. I am so thankful I have a wonderful female gynecologist in NC who specializes in all things peri-menopause and menopause.

[@auaticamazon]

The goal is to emulate well being of younger years. It mimics what nature has done for eons.

[@IKDKYK]

It will increase risk of breast cancer , as number of cycles does and it was shown in research as well.

[@commitbeautywellness7712]

Sometimes I use a lower dose on the off weeks or cream if they have insomnia or anxiety on the off days Do you do this Dr. Gersh?

[@Andrea-64]

New sub. I finally got on hrt after 10 years. I now have severe osteoporosis at 60. I'm on estrogel 0.06 Pms progesterone 100mg and vagifem. Can I take 200mg of progesterone for 15 days on and 15 days off. I've only been on hrt for a month. I'll bring up testosterone next visit see how that goes 🤔 I find what you're saying makes absolute sense.

[@ccasiano101yt7]

How did it go? I just statted menopause. Its been 1 year with no period. I want to start HRT Im so scared. There is information overload. And I don’t know where to start. I am 49.

[@jessicahitchens6926]

What are you scared about? You do thorough research for I'd say 3-6 months. Use your intuition listen to your body. You get information from everywhere. Read papers if you have to. You are your own advocate. The fear is probably low Estradiol/Estriol too.

[@c.ymcbray3123]

@@ccasiano101yt7 Best to start with Estradiol transdermal gel so you can control how much you use. Start slow and see how you feel. Get micronized Progesterone, take it 12-13 days after starting Estradiol. Start with one capsule for 14 days. Journal how you're feeling each day. It takes a little while to start alleviating symptoms so give it time. If you still have meno symptoms, you can increase dose You have nothing to lose by giving it a try and so many health benefits to gain!

[@marynow123]

If progesterone makes the lining secretory, then how does it work to stop the lining from growing when you take it every day? How does the o keep it from thickening then?

[@XeniaAidonopoulou]

Thank you Felice, you're awesome.... ❤

[@doodieevanshenagan3330]

I’m 73 & love your videos……I am on Estradiol .1mg……testosterone & 200mg progesterone each night. Should I take my progesterone for 14 days then break???

[@astralartist4]

Thats what i did for 8 yrs. However now my dr put me on only .5 patch since I am restarting, and I notice the monthly bleed has not started after 13 days. Think the est dose is too low.

[@lacolora]

I love your videos!! After being in menopause for over 5 years..I just started BHRT as my Dr.'s and also I thought it would not be the best choice since I had family history of breast cancer both maternal grandma and aunt. I just started on estraiol patch 0.05 and 200mg progesterone and I already feel pretty good. My question is...should I buy cycling the Progesterone so soon? Thank you !!

[@anaf9314]

Your progesteron is orally or in Cream??

[@lacolora]

@@anaf9314 Oral 200mg every night

[@lacolora]

@@anaf9314 Orally I take 200mg every night

[@lacolora]

@@anaf9314 Progesterone is oral 200mg every night

[@elaine2158]

Yes you should by cycling it from the beginning. There's no reason to be on continuous.

[@Ginabritt7]

Hi! Wonderful episode! My OB/gyn prescribed progesterone for me at 100 mg to take every day and since I’ve done that I haven’t had a period at all. It’s been about a year now. I would like to start taking it cyclically but I’m not sure if I should just start and pick 14 random days in a row and then 14 days off? Just not sure. Since I’m not getting a period anymore, I’m not sure where I am in my cycle at any given time. I am also 47 years old so there’s a possibility I could be in full menopause.

[@vannelysrivera8358]

I take progesterone from day 1 to day 14 each month, I then stop from day 15 to day 30. Then I start progesterone again. Estradiol patch I use nonstop all month. Hope this helps.

[@Katepwe]

I no longer menstruate and use progesterone every night. After entering menopause I’m not sure there is any reason to use it cyclically.

[@vannelysrivera8358]

@@Katepwe There are many benefits of doing the Progesterone cycling. There is one episode from doctor Gersh talking about this topic. You should watch it and then decide what’s best for you.

[@russvet]

Take the moon cycle and adopt your hormone intake to it.

[@auaticamazon]

⁠​⁠@@Katepweshe explained why. Taking them together is like trying to drive with your foot on the accelerator and other on the brake.

[@lauramayer4746]

What are your thoughts on wild yam cream? How does one know when to start the progesterone if the cycles are irregular or nonexistent?

[@iloveutube20]

Love your videos, you are the best doctor❤❤❤

[@athenachloewoodrow6356]

I have endometriosis, so bleeding is not a good thing for me. Continuous progesterone is what was recommended

[@KaziSiraz-l5z]

Same as me ,I've also endometriosis can u plzz tell me do u take progesterone vaginally or tropical cream?

[@mariapolanco9652]

Thank you. Please provide more info on HRT after hysterectomy! I have been prescribed the ClimaraPro patch: Is that recommended for post menopaused women without a uterus?

[@auaticamazon]

I get climera patch and take progesterone tabs at night. I think climera pro is a progestin which is an endocrine diseuptor and NOT progesterone

[@nohemiwest-phelps534]

Just to confirm, you are saying that the progesterone would be taken for 14 days and stopped for 14 days, correct?

[@joannsmith3589]

that's correct

[@Lena-zo2tl]

Such great information, thank you!

[@Jane-bw5dx]

I would love to read this research, can you please link us to the studies or the authors? Thank you ❤

[@crystalnixon5267]

Agree! There is another KZbin OBGYN saying there is absolutely no scientific proof that cycling progesterone is helpful, but if there are studies, I would like to see them!

[@jean6460]

Could progesterone help my body clear tiny uterine polyps? I am premenopausal. 🙏🏼❤️

[@russvet]

Also insulin should be OK, resistance to insulin is a factor of growth.

[@Leamoyer]

What about if you want sleep consistency. It helps me sleep so well.

[@joannsmith3589]

yeah i was thinking the same... it's like you're only sleep ok half the month...

[@jessicahitchens6926]

Magnesium Glycinate at night. Melatonin.. Even try Indian Ginseng..

[@maressacox]

How come when progesterone rising before period causes insomnia? But when you take a progesterone pill it helps sleep?

[@jessicahitchens6926]

That's the Estradiol as well.. the two start to crash.. that's why you feel like crap.

[@nikoleaponte9100]

You are great!!!! Thank you!!!

[@joannafronczak9721]

Please could you make a video about Merina coil. I have progesteron intolerance and my doc has recommended Merina but I am very concerned about its side effects and if it's beneficial properties. Thank you so much.

[@jessicahitchens6926]

Don't get it. Its Progestin not Progesterone

[@jessicahitchens6926]

You have no control over it. It's also painful to insert and expensive.

[@c.ymcbray3123]

Micronized Progesterone is also available in a vaginal capsule. Not sure what country you're in but it does exist

[@AS-yh6xu]

I am about to start HRT , 2 years in with menopause. Trying to learn as much as possible myself. My GP prescribed oral Prempro before doing hormone blood tests(I suggested) so I decided to educate myself first then start the process. Looks like I would start with Estriol patch or cream(?) plus Progesterone oral, 2 weeks a month(?). Bleeding or spotting is worth it if it will help my overall health!

[@c.ymcbray3123]

@@AS-yh6xu I found it best to get the Estradiol gel (instead of the patch) because you have more control over your dosing. I use a bit less Day 1-5 & more on day 6-21 & less again 22-28 (like a reg. cycle) depending also on how I feel of course. I take oral Progesterone (micronized) Day 12-26 I printed a graph of the rise & fall of Estradiol & Progesterone in a natural cycle (thank you Google) & this helped to figure it out & keep track. Whatever day you end up getting a bleed, make this your new Day 1 & stop the Progesterone until Day 12 It took me about 2-3 mos. to get a regular bleed after being on continuous HRT dosing. I definitely feel much better overall with the cyclic method!

[@erummunir3494]

Thank you so much for all the info. But please let us know the dosage of progesterone for post menopausal women. Age 53. Just started 0.025 estrodiol patch. Got hysterectomy at age 42 with only one ovary intact. Please advise how progesterone and is it supposed to be for few days in the month or every day.

[@LustigeMedizin]

Thank you very much ❤! You have saved my life!!!!❤❤❤

[@nlsellers2]

I was hoping you would talk some more about hysterectomies I had a complete hysterectomy and have struggled to find any information that helps nobody ever talks about it.

[@jessicahitchens6926]

You still need Progesterone don't listen to docs saying just Estradiol and Testosterone.

[@Catherine-f8i]

I started cyclic progesterone 4 months ago. I just had my labs done and my TSH is almost too low- I talk with my doctor soon, but I suspect she may be lowering my dose of thyroid medication in the coming months. I do take micronized progesterone pills, but I take them vaginally, which is an off label use, I know. I would love to know if the Doctor has any thoughts on this way of taking progesterone.

[@DeniseTG13]

I've read when using vaginally the dosage is less as well as frequency to three times a week, but that's NOT when cycling micronized progesterone. Great question.

[@oxanarolph9874]

Progesterone is a miracle for the thyroid. Progesterone speeds up the conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), the active form of thyroid hormone. Adequate progesterone levels are essential for optimal thyroid function and can help counterbalance the potential negative impact of estrogen on thyroid hormone levels.

[@joniramirez8684]

I read in a sleep disturbances article, that included perimenopausal women, that only if taken orally at night does it significantly help improve VMS and sleep.

[@janeyjensen]

What is a good brand in progesterone cream?

[@MarcyCavalier-xc4ez]

According not Dr Mary Claire Haver there is not a progesterone cream that is effective. It must be taken in pill for to work. She said don’t waste your money on creams.

[@tammypaige87]

What mg of progesterone should we take during menopause for those two weeks while on estrdia patch high mg 75

[@SandraKnoellOrtiz]

Dear Doctor Gersh thank you for all the information. I had a partial hysterectomy very young at 45, and they also removed the fallopian tubes. I have been taking estradiol and progesterone every day. Could you clarify the recommended cycle for progesterone please 🙏 You recommended fourteen days and then stop to allowing bleeding, but when should I start taking the progesterone again ? After few days? Thank you 🙏

[@peacepocket]

Is it safe to take 100mg continuously and have no period?

[@maureenedwards8307]

Great info and thank you Dr Gersh. I am taking 100mg vaginally for 14 days and get a bleed for about 3 days. When I take 100mg orally for 14 days, I don't bleed....is 100mg vaginally with a bleed protective for my bones and other organ systems?? or should I take 200mg vaginally for 14 days?

[@serizer9]

This is very interesting

[@agquaproductions9361]

The oral route creates dangerous metabolites. Intravaginally goes directly to blood stream.

[@kimlarso]

Great question!!!?!!!

[@c.ymcbray3123]

@@maureenedwards8307 Good question & I had the same dilemma. I printed a graph of the rise & fall of Progesterone in a natural cycle so I decided to follow that: 100mg Day12-17 200mg Day 18-24 then back to 100mg I take it vaginally as well which for sure is helping with absorption

[@shannasemel4805]

Do you have any input on why some of us can't tolerate progesterone? I have attempted to use prometrium and it gives me anxiety and shortness of breathe. I am very sensitive to medications so I even squeezed out some of the medication and attempted it vaginally and then attempted rubbing one drop transdermally with the same result. Doesn't make sense especially if it's supposed to be body identical. I am 43 and in perimenopause with hypothyroidism for some background. Can't start estrogen without the progesterone because I have a uterus and this problem as holding me back from ever getting relief with estrogen

[@umitismailova554]

The same thing.

[@DeniseTG13]

Are you allergic to the excipient of peanut oil that Prometrium has? I am and needed my micronized progesterone compounded with olive oil.

[@shannasemel4805]

@@DeniseTG13 nope! Eat peanut butter alot

[@umitismailova554]

I’m not allergic to peanut either but the side effects of the oral progesterone micronised 100 mg ( promethium) makes me ill.

[@VikkiSalari]

@@shannasemel4805 did you know if promethium brand is the same as progesterone4 she’s talking about?

[@samanthareilly6968]

How do you know what your optimal amounts are? I've been battling with the NHS for over 2 years for help. They just give me different HRT without ever doing a blood test. I feel like and experiment. I'm so tired of this journey. Its all just really confusing. I'm sorry, i know all of this info is great education into our bodies, but unless the health professionals will change and do things as you speak, millions of women are just being offered trial and error and not being given tests.

[@catb4918]

I'm really sorry this is happening to you. Blood &/or saliva analysis is essential. What do they say when you ask for bloodwork? If whoever you are going to is utterly refusing to help you, it's way past time for another Dr. The problem with women's health & hormones is 'regular' Drs & HMO hacks cannot help you. Need a functional medical practitioner. The other issue is you may need to pay out of pocket for some things because depending on insurance they may not cover some appts, labs or therapies. Dr. Gersh is my Dr. she is amazing. Good Luck...

[@franweintraub9306]

@@samanthareilly6968 yes yes, just keep trying to find the a doctor. New science and new information for women is showing up via the internet. Dr. Gersh, Dr. Anna Cabecca, Dr. Sara Gottfried, all can lead you to someone with knowledge in women’s health.

[@empresslove2120]

I didn’t want to start having a monthly bleed again after being two years post menopause when I started HRT in January however it makes so much sense to take progesterone cyclically which is what I decided to do and I definitely feel better since trying this method! Iv got a consultation with my doctor tomorrow with regards to adding testosterone to my hormone therapy because I feel it will help with my energy levels and getting things done that’s what I miss the most Iv become so lazy and procrastinate so much more than I used to I just can’t deal with tasks that require that umph!! Thank you Dr 🙏😊

[@doodieevanshenagan3330]

I love Dr Gersh’s videos…..wish she could be my dr. However my dr has me on compounded testosterone & progesterone……& a progesterone pill 200 mg at bedtime. Do I continue using both progesterones or use just one…..I take pill at night & cream in morning. Now I’m out of the cream, & on Estradiol patch & take progesterone pill, I began bleeding a little when I wipe, but in a video by Dr.Gersh she said to celebrate cuz that means I have a proliferation of uterine lining which means my hormones are working as protection. Any advise I need to know?

[@chanteltennyson2192]

@@doodieevanshenagan3330progesterone stops the bleeding. I do cream and pill twice a day. You also may not be optimal on your estradiol.

[@we4utube2]

Enjoyed your video.

[@26evajdiaz]

Thank you dr, but I get the worst symptoms during the period stage I’m hoping to try this and would work to minimize these symptoms during cyclic system?

[@MC-vr3yh]

Thank you so much for sharing this invaluable information. Would it be possible to explain Fibroids and HRT. Even though I have terrible perimenopause symptoms using Oestrogen gel triggers my fibroids ( pressure in my bladder and discomfort) . I think I might be deficient in Progesterone and high in Estrogem. I wonder if I can use progesterone pills alone to balance this imbalance in my hormones. My doctor has no clue about this. Thank you.

[@annasaprykina5020]

It would help greatly to hear your view on progesterone for women on Tamoxifen, please. Thank you.

[@jannlittle4745]

I love that. Optimal balance of cyclical hormones. Actually I was optimal at the beginning of my bhrt 47 to 55 she dropped Estrogen then later she dropped progesterone. Then at 60 she cut my estradiol in half. Immediately my hair started falling out as became wirey. I've had problems ever since. I knew that since im 68 and she is legally to keep my estradiol to be be as low and my progesterone has been doubled. I've now started looking pregnant . I want to be like I was before. I am having hypothyroid issues which has just started to be normal again . My progesterone has Testosterone with it but my estradiol is separated. Does too much progesterone as to the level of estradiol cause belly fat like impregnate and does progesterone cause weight gain. Doesn't progesterone cause fluid retention..

[@mspok3307]

I have an estradiol 0.075 weekly patch and take the 200 mg micronized progesterone capsule. I have been on a continuous regimen but can clearly see what you've explained about the benefits of a cyclical regimen. So, I would take the combination for two weeks, then continue with the patch only, for the rest of the month, correct? Then, begin with the estradiol and progesterone capsule on the first of every month? Thank you!

[@katrinabennett2759]

Great question, I need the answer to this too!

[@user-xs9835]

I would like to try cyclical but I am afraid that without progesteron my sleep will be totally disrupted.

[@suesmith2360]

I feel the same ​@@user-xs9835

[@ednaarroyo5088]

Following the question. Also, I’m confused, since some doctors recommend day one of your period and others they 14 after the period? Which one is the correct?

[@Miss-Liberty_1717]

@@user-xs9835 me to , love the sleep.. I take melatonin to help me. I’m going to try cycling too

[@kathief3953]

Hi Doctor, can you refer me to the name of the video that talks about the IUD? I cannot find it.

[@lynnb4400]

Dr. Gersh, please talk about HRT with fibroids, what are options to minimize heavy bleeding? I have tried IUD with 200 mg of Prometrium , .05 climara patch and I am still bleeding. I don’t want to give up my HRT , it has help me a lot with my menopausal symptoms especially my brain fog. Please discuss fibroids I think most women gave up bc of the heavy bleeding and missed on the benefits of the treatment. Thank you

[@elaine2158]

Can you not just get the fibroids removed? There are very non-invasive ways to do that now I think.

[@lynnb4400]

@@elaine2158 I did hysteroscopy, unfortunately the fibroids are imbedded under the muscles and nothing much they could to remove it.

[@carla-oq8lz]

Thank you for this information. I which 14 days in the menstrual cycle ? I hope you see me question, thank you.

[@CatherineJonesTX]

Can I still take DHEA and pregnenolone everyday?

[@lifewithmargot]

So we get our period again in menopause with the cyclical progesterone?

[@essanjay8604]

You get a withdrawal bleed - for me it's nothing like my natural period - lighter and painfree - usually over with in a couple of days.

[@lifewithmargot]

@@essanjay8604 ah okay thanks

[@PLT722]

That brings a bunch of questions, eg why would nature throw us off the cliff half way through life? 😵‍💫 We are not designed to live short lives, in fact in more nature-bonded cultures ( eg Hunza, Siberian Russia…) people live long, & women bear children way into their 60s and beyond - wait a minute- why no one talks about ii? So, there must be something to do with our lifestyle perhaps ? Disconnect from mama earth? Or, a collective belief that burried its way into our DNA? Or, perhaps, were we not depleted, our bodies would naturally make enough hormones even if we no longer ovulate?

[@JanineHyslop]

so when would you start progesterone if you still get a cycle would you take oestrogen for first 14 days on the first day of the bleed, then progesterone for 14 days

[@jessicahitchens6926]

The Estradiol is all month. The Progesterone is 1-12 days or thereabouts.

[@kimvanveen4640]

I had a full hysterotomy 10 years ago and now I am finally getting HRT which was not offered back when I had my procedure. Now I am 61 and I am suffering from having no hormones in my system and my Dr finally put me on estrogen and progesterone. I to feel so much better but then I had a break out of acene. Is this normal? I don't want to stop my HRT but my face really hurts

[@tonischoeley7286]

I'm very glad, I found your chanel. Unfortunately taking progesteron oral or dermal hasn't worked for me. I had very bad sleep even with the very little amount of 1g of a 1% creme for a few days. Do you think, that its possible to take pregnenolone instead? That was recomended in a You-tube interview with professor Huber from Austria. My doctor will end the HRT I'm afraid. She hadn't been found a solution for years now. You are my last hope. Thank you for answering in advance.

[@elaine2158]

How much estradiol are you on? What form? What are your estradiol levels? Insufficient estradiol causes progesterone intolerance/ineffectiveness because you need adequate estrogen to upregulate enough progesterone receptors. Dr Gersh can't possibly advise you on here, she'd be struck off as a doctor if she started doing that.

[@tonischoeley7286]

@@elaine2158 Of course.You are right. But I had hoped, that Dr. Gersh could speak about the pregnenolone- thing in one of her videos. I take just Estriol 0,03mg (not estradiol) two times a week. That alredy caused an increase of the uterus lining. Though it took as much as a year. I have learned in the meantime, that progesteron is like a chameleon. It can convert in other hormones such as estrogen, testosteron or cortisol. I think that might also be the case with my body. The question ist, how to manage that without stopping HRT entirely.

[@anonanonymous1970]

Does progesterone make you continue to have periods when you would otherwise have stopped?

[@kerryvosswinkel3570]

It does not if it is taken daily. I have been taking it daily for about six months and have never had bleeding. The doctor appears to be saying that it does if it is taken cyclically as she recommends.

[@audreyfischer8662]

Hi, I had a total hysterectomy on my 19th birthday. (Melonsize teratoma ovarian cancer. Celebrating 51years cancer-free.) At 70 years old, can I take physiological dose, progesterone & estradiol, too? I have under active thyroid, chronic inflammation, osteopenia, and very dense breasts. Energy levels high and mentally strong & upbeat.

[@cowdreyk]

Thank you for the information! Question when talking about dosing. I'm taking 200 mg but not in pill form. I'm taking it as a compounded cream. Is the pill form also from a compounding pharmacy? Or from a normal pharmacy so insurance covers its?

[@zohrasiddiqi4729]

Compounded is bioidentical and better because it helps bind to receptors

[@auaticamazon]

The absorption of the large molecule progesterone through skin is low. Oral dosing is optimal for micronised progesterone

[@muminab9701]

☹️info on HRT after hysterectomy please!

[@kimdavis1091]

Yes please thank you for asking this question

[@auaticamazon]

She said she doses as if you have uterus. Keep a calendar. 2 weeks on progesterone then 2 weeks off and continue

[@joannsmith3589]

she mentioned it at the end...she says she treats the same

[@minatohid7855]

Exact questions I had ❤❤❤

[@peacepocket]

Doctors can’t seem to agree on if progesterone should be continuous or cycle.

[@user-xs9835]

Is progesteron harsh on liver?

[@VeritasElysium931]

What about progesterone in perimenopause? Should it be administered differently?

[@jessicahitchens6926]

No... why would it be administered differently when you still have hormones? And cycles. It works with your cycle or mimics it if you no longer have it naturally.

[@alsci2489]

Cyclically even post menopause or 100mg continuous?

[@auaticamazon]

She said no where is nature is the progesterone static with estradiol. . She explained post menopausal cycling advantages

[@sara54501]

Im in perimenopause and still cycling regularly. My nurse practioner prescribed time released progesterone all month long. Does that sound right or should i only do the last 2 weeks of my cycle

[@jeanies8495]

what about with fibroids? menopause 3 yrs, I have been on estradiol patch and and prometrium a few months now I am bleeding and worried about hemorrhaging

[@magdaurbanowicz-bq5jh]

Is the estrogen + progesterone (Norethisterone) combo patch a good choice? Norethisterone is unfortunatelly not a bio-identical hormone.

[@meliteletemp9137]

In my country its only accesible HRT that include transdermal estradiol. Estradiol patch +progesteron in pills or cream is not accesible. I am sorry this kind of progesteron is not bio identical so it has higher chance of causing cancer.

[@vishubartwal8252]

Hello mam ❤ actually, The doctor told me to take Femostone 1/10, I am taking it but I accidentally followed the wrong cycle, I took gray pill instead of white in first 14 days, doctor told me to take white pill first 14 days, and then 14 days gray pill Take it Can I adopt the right method after completing this cycle? That I will have to wait for a few more days and then start the cycle?, please can you suggest me what should i do ?

[@lissettebriceno9701]

Please Dr. Gersh, information about the mirena coil Asap. I have been in a cyclical HRT 1rst oral micronized and then the same but vaginal pessaries due to increase on migraines. Dr. Recomended for the second time changing to the coil. I just don't think it is right for me

[@jannlittle4745]

I love that. Optimal balance of cyclical hormones. Actually I was optimal at the beginning of my bhrt 47 to 55 she dropped Estrogen then later she dropped progesterone. Then at 60 she cut my estradiol in half. Immediately my hair started falling out as became wirey. I've had problems ever since. I knew that since im 68 and she is legally to keep my estradiol to be be as low and my progesterone has been doubled. I've now started looking pregnant . I want to be like I was before. I am having hypothyroid issues which has just started to be normal again . My progesterone has Testosterone with it but my estradiol is separated. Does too much progesterone as to the level of estradiol cause belly fat like impregnate and does progesterone cause weight gain.,?

[@jessicahitchens6926]

Go to someone else. You need Oestrogens... Even try a bio identicals cream with Estriol and Estradiol. Do lymphatic drainage on your abdomen. Try Organic Maca Powder daily. Take Magnesium Glycinate at night too. Unfortunately we all will change and be elderly.

[@jessicahitchens6926]

Cut the Progesterone in half. Up thr Estradiol/Estriol. That's Estrone the belly. And the thyroid could be acting up again or its just water retention. So cut it back.

[@Yellow-oc4sl]

Thank you , for this video, i just started nirthindone birth control small dose i read 15mg at the most its 35mg , im also perimenapause periods and system r eractric , i had no idea progestin is well needed especially going through this , thank u so much for these videos, its almost been aweek i keep track of how im doing with this bc , i have been low low on progesterone too it does make sense though i hope no periods just spotting is better , also low iron,

[@elaine2158]

Progestin is not the same thing as progesterone. She's not talking about birth control pills or the synthetic type of progestin that you're taking. Those are not good 99.99% of the time. Why are you on progestogen-only birth control instead of HRT if you're in perimenopause? Why aren't you at least on proper, normal HRT?

[@Katepwe]

This is very confusing……I appreciate all the information but perhaps it could be explained simpler or over a few videos. I’ve had a total hysterectomy, no ovaries or uterus and take 100mg progesterone nightly. I was without it for several years and sleep was horrible. I sleep much, much better now and will continue taking it nightly.

[@zohrasiddiqi4729]

She has a book out

[@AS333uno]

Do what is working for you 🫶🏼, our body does not continue to go through a reproduction cycle once we go through peri menopause and menopause, and that is why most women then go onto a continuous dose , to mimic what the hormones would be doing at this stage . It’s still the same amount of progesterone over the month , it’s just spread out over the month , as apposed to just two weeks out of the month . Every Dr has their own preferences, and she states it’s her own personal preference. From all the evidence based research I have read , We would have no reason to try mimic what our bodies would have been doing in our 20’s , hormonally . We are mimicking the stage at what we are currently at , from what the evidence based research suggests . Lifestyle on the other hand is where we can choose all the optimal things to keep are bodies healthy , fitter , stronger , younger for our so called chronological years , without trying to alter the rhythms of our hormones . Hrt is so beneficial in many ways , I personally have taken it for 4 years , but it was only the missing piece of a jigsaw. Healthy lifestyle choices make up 99% of this jigsaw and hrt can only be beneficial when lifestyle changes for the better are made 🙌🏼

[@elaine2158]

Do you not take estradiol as well?

[@Katepwe]

@@elaine2158 yes

[@elaine2158]

@@Katepwe how much and what type? What are your blood levels? Poor sleep is often caused by inadequate estradiol.

[@Teddyhall11]

Hello Dr. Gersh, first of all thank you so much for what you doing! I'll right jump in. I was put on Depo Vera injection 2019 as a form of birth control at age 44. My period got completely out of control! I was bleeding heavily between injections. Was sent to ultra sound a couple times, never checked my hormonal level,tge doctors keep saying it's no need. Did a private test,turned out I have next to nothing testosterone. Very anaemic! Recently been an MRI scan,they saying I have a breast tissue changes. Wanting to further investigate with mammogram. They refusing to provide a female consultant. Been raped,coming from a very abusive marriage. There is no way I'll let a male doctors touching me. I have no lumps,redness my breast is not sore. Perfectly fine. My period is still not fully settled, my doctor denying birth control, hormonal treatment of any form. I'm age 50 I'm in peri menopause. Very,very desperate to find answers. Looking forward to hearing from you. Thanks

[@elaine2158]

She can't give you personal medical advice over the internet. Don't ask doctors to do that. Make an appointment with her if you can afford it etc. Otherwise you simply need to find a doctor who will prescribe HRT for you. Keep searching until you find a competent one. There are online telemedicine doctors who might be able to help you to at least get on some kind of basic regime.

[@kimlarso]

Are u on estrogen?

[@marycarver7092]

Can I ask a question? I been on hrt for 2 years.. i started at 40. Ill be 42 next month. Not sure its just aging. But my vision is crazy right now. I heard if u up progesterone and estrogen it can mess with your vision. Help please

[@janealsop8672]

I would like to know what kind of vision issues you are having . The studies show on pub med that HRT protect the eyes and is Nero protective . I have developed glaucoma after cycling for many years. My identical twins eyes are fine and she has been cycling as well for the same amount of time..

[@jessicahitchens6926]

Glaucoma is from not enough Estradiol. The ducts become weak the tear fall out of the eyes. They don't hold up like they used to. I can't remember the scientific wording. UV light needs to get into the eyes as well.

[@jessicahitchens6926]

If you have had no previous issues with your eyes it's not aging. Your early 40s. Not mid 50s. It's the fluctuations of your sex hormones. Nothing to do with BHRT /HRT. It happened to me and I was on nothing. It can happen from 36 onwards especially if in the family.

[@janealsop8672]

@@jessicahitchens6926 how do you know this?

[@dechengyalmo09]

What amount of progesterone do you give women in perimenopause orally and transdermal. How do you balance it optimal with estradiol? How would a balanced ratio look like in serum and saliva?

[@jessicahitchens6926]

100-200 mg vaginally at night for 10-12 days. Others do 1-12 days. You need to apply Estradiol in the morning and if you need to up the Estradiol do it. You also need to be on good supplements daily. It supports your system. If you can't do the micronised do the cream if possible.

[@jessicahitchens6926]

You have low levels of Progesterone by your late 30s early 40s. It decreases after 30 and nowadays it declines eve quicker due to pollutants and toxic meds etc.

[@jessicahitchens6926]

Dutch test and some bloods. Bloods won't be that accurate.

[@jessicahitchens6926]

1-14 days* typo

[@dechengyalmo09]

@@jessicahitchens6926 thank you 🙏

[@katrinabennett2759]

Dr. Gersh, I'm 53, post-menopausal. Progesterone (micronized oral) helps me with sleep. If I only take P 1st 14 days of the month this disrupts my sleep. Also, how does this affect uterus protection in the absence of P? Will I stop bleeding upon taking P again on the 1st of the month? I have imbalanced Cortisol and Hpothyroidism too 🤪 I will be adding Testosterone cream and LDN soon. What are your thoughts?

[@anaf9314]

Hopefully She answers your question.

[@marlarangeloff5163]

She didn't answer. I will. I take 100 mg of progesterone nightly. And 2 mg oral estradiol in the morning. I take it continuously. That's why I only take 100 mg of progesterone. Then it's routine. My thoughts on testosterone is, you are still making it in menopause. Not a ton. But there are many bad side effects of testosterone. Having the best amount of estradiol is mostly important

[@melaniedubose290]

​@@marlarangeloff5163 I'm post menopausal, 58. Partial hysterectomy, removal of uterus 14 yrs ago. Does taking 2mg of estradiol affect your weight? And have you ever called the Progesterone?

[@klvhall]

@@marlarangeloff5163I use a DHEA cream to increase testosterone.

[@elaine2158]

@@marlarangeloff5163 You shouldn't be on oral estradiol unless you really can't get or absorb some transdermal form.

[@franweintraub9306]

I am 76 years old and I’ve been in menopause for 20 years. I Dr gave me progesterone pills. I don’t understand taking the pills for 14 days then I would have a period is that correct?

[@ZsuzsaKarolySmith]

Yep, and who would want to do that? I certainly wouldn’t! If you take a sufficient amount of progesterone continuously to counterbalance the oestrogen your uterine lining won’t have a chance to thicken, so there’s no need for shedding. A much better solution in my opinion, though I’m not a doctor, obviously. The key is to take enough progesterone to keep the uterine lining thin at all times.

[@franweintraub9306]

Thanks for replying. My prescription is for 100ml gram pill progesterone. Should I take it continuous? I tried it once and it so helped with sleep that I am very curious. Thanks,

[@ZsuzsaKarolySmith]

@@franweintraub9306 I’m on 100 mg body-identical micronised progesterone capsule (brand name utrogestan in the UK) and I take it continuously. It does help with sleep!

[@franweintraub9306]

Ok thanks to all for responding. I will experiment with taking progesterone for 14 days and stop for 14 days. The information shared is wonderful. Thanks

[@jessicahitchens6926]

You would have a small bleed. Not a period

[@glassgoddess8646]

So after the 14 days of progesterone use you stop for 14 days? If you've had vaginal ablation (18 years ago) do you still get a period?

[@seablue140]

My understanding is if the ablation was a success, you will know by whether you bleed or not. Meaning the estradiol that you were taking without the progesterone will cause proliferation *if* there is any tissue left behind that could activate from the progesterone. So if you take the progesterone after you did just estradiol and you don't bleed, then your ablation was a success. That is my understanding. I hope that makes sense. So that brings up another question in my mind is it necessary to take so much progesterone if what we're doing is just trying to rid the lining that proliferated ? That would be a good question to ask maybe you only need like 50 mg or something.

[@glassgoddess8646]

@@seablue140 after my ablation they didn't give me estrogen. I just recently started on estrogen, progesterone, & testosterone. If you had ablation did they start you on replacement?

[@tanaatkinson7833]

Dr. Just suggested 200mg of prometrium, my cortisol is very very low, go to sleep well but wake up at 3:00 am. Cortisol is low in morning higher at night. Is this a good way to or a good source of progesterone?

[@KKKKAAAARRRRYYYYNN]

19:10 thyroid T4 is modulated by progesterone

[@stef3565]

Can I stay on my HRT with an upcoming knee replacement?

[@JanineBonadio]

At 60 ~ I think we are ready to forgo our periods! The combination of micronized progesterone and estradiol taken on a continuous regime ~ keeping hormones levels balanced through the month is not better for physical and emotional health? Please advise. Thank You

[@ZsuzsaKarolySmith]

I think it is better to take it continuously post menopause - I don’t see the point in trying to emulate a menstrual cycle when you obviously don’t ovulate any more. Progesterone is needed for all sorts of other functions, like thyroid hormone production, so it’s better to take a low dose continuously rather than a larger dose in a cycle - then again I’m not a doctor, just using common sense. I choose to take it continuously and you’re right, it’s better for hormone balance unless women enjoy PMS symptoms from their pre-menopausal years! No thanks! 😂

[@susan6336]

I too am confused about why the heck I'd want to have a period as a postmeno woman.

[@New-York-Attitude]

What I get from watching Dr. Gersh’s videos is that having a period is the only way to know that your body has optimal estrogen levels. And I believe in other videos she says that progesterone can inhibit some of the benefits of estrogen if taken continuously. And it also inhibits benefits of testosterone so having a menstrual cycle is one of the inconvenient side effects of knowing your hormones are working together and not opposing one another.

[@jessicahitchens6926]

You don't have natural pre menopausal periods. You have a short bleed. You have no eggs left they're absorbed into the body most likely.

[@jessicahitchens6926]

You understand what she is talking about. Most don't listen or do proper research. Watch an odd video and think periods from their fertile years 🤣

[@Lori050]

So I take my progesterone for 2 wks & I bleed for 7 days then go back on progesterone for another 2 weeks & keep doing this?? Am I right ?

[@jessicahitchens6926]

You bleed or spot for a few days it shouldn't be 7 days or longer. It's not an actual period.

[@rebekah3998]

Hello, I am 4 weeks late to this video so I am hoping someone can answer.... To clarify "cycling progesterone", are you saying that should still be done in menopause? Because I really dont want to have more periods. Hopefully someone can clarify that. Thanks!

[@jessicahitchens6926]

You don't get natural periods because you are barren/infertile now. You would get a small bleed for 3 days or so. Akin to spotting..

[@dawnr8811]

Will my sleep suffer when not taking the progesterone? Been 2 months on estradiol patch and 100mg progesterone and feeling good and sleeping again after 5 years of insomnia 🫣 I’m post menopausal

[@seablue140]

I just started cyclical a week ago without progesterone at night. It isn't too bad because I definitely have the same fears. I am sleeping, but I'm not dead to the world like I was on the progesterone lol. It's a little bit of an adjustment, but from what I hear as estradiol helps with sleep cycles as well but in a different way. One of the ways that helps me start to fall asleep is I use a magnesium lotion on my shoulders at night because I get tight shoulders, but also it helps systemically with relaxation and sleep cycles. Hope that helps. In addition, I plan on asking if I can go back to my perimenopausal progesterone cream to give myself a little bit of progesterone when I'm not taking it in that 14 days.

[@loveheals2828]

@@seablue140 My pharmicist said you can take a small amount of progesterone days 1-14 and still be on cyclic hormones and get a bleed. He told me to use a small amount of the cream or take a 50 mg progesterone pill.He said some women need it.He is a big proponent of Cycling and getting a bleed so I was happy to hear this.

[@odilemeister8133]

I tried cycling for 1 month and it was really hard to get through 2 weeks without Progesterone because my sleep was very broken. Then, after the long break I couldn't tolerate 200 mg. I felt so fatigued for half the following day. 100 mg seems to work best for me. I'm wondering whether stopping the Progesterone for let's say 4 days would be enough of a pause in order to activate the estradiol, testosterone, and progesterone receptors?

[@dawnr8811]

@@odilemeister8133 was wondering too if I could shorten the length of time off the progesterone 🤔 Otherwise I think I will just continue every day for now. So happy to sleep again but also want all the benefits from the estradiol. My Dr never said anything about cycling, been post menopausal 5 years

[@dawnr8811]

@@odilemeister8133 100mg seems perfect for me, no fatigue at all. Also wondering about cycling less days 🤔

[@maryfranco3120]

Im in menopause I had a hysterectomy and everything thing is out and my doctor gave me premarin cream three times a day I'm 54 can I put that on my face to for wrinkles to

[@jessicahitchens6926]

Go to a different doctor and get a BHRT not pregnant mares urine. That's what Premarin is. You also need Progesterone not Progestin.

[@reneewhittinghill3440]

@@maryfranco3120 yes definitely get topical and bioidentical hormones. You could add a little more estriol (works on beta receptors) in addition to estradiol (works on all receptors) to your face since skin has more beta receptors.

[@christinaconrad9649]

Every time I use my progesterone cream, it causes me to start my period early. I understand what’s taking place and why, but if I keep using progesterone I’ll have a period every two weeks. What do I do?

[@agquaproductions9361]

People keep talking up progesterone it is there to cut off estradiol receptors' function.

[@Yellow-oc4sl]

Creams are no good , bc pills or shot is better