Are you expecting a baby? Or has your doctor prescribed you a gel to use vaginally to help you? Most often, it's a gel that contains the hormone progesterone. The name may sound a little scary, but this is a very important medicine that helps many women have a healthy pregnancy. Today, we'll talk about this medicine, what it does, how to use it properly, and what to watch out for.
What is Progesterone? Why is this gel given?
Simply put, Progesterone is an essential hormone naturally produced in the female body. It is essential for the preparation of pregnancy and beyond. Specifically, it prepares your uterus to receive a baby and helps keep it healthy throughout pregnancy.
However, sometimes some women's bodies do not produce enough of this hormone. That's when the doctor decides to give this hormone externally. This vaginal gel is one way to give the hormone Progesterone (also called `(Progestin)`) to the body. Because it is inserted directly into the vagina, it is absorbed into the uterus very quickly and efficiently.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before using this medicine, it is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. Because using this medicine with certain medical conditions can be risky. If you have any of the conditions below, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
| Situation to be concerned about | What you need to inform |
|---|---|
| Blood vessel disease or blood clots | If you have previously had a blood clotting disorder, stroke, or related condition. |
| Cancer | If you have or have had breast, cervical, or vaginal cancer. |
| Other medical conditions | If you have heart disease, kidney disease, or liver disease. |
| Miscarriages and bleeding | If you have had a previous miscarriage, or if you have unexplained vaginal bleeding. |
| Allergies | If you have an allergy to progesterone, other hormones, other medications, foods, or preservatives. |
| Current status | If you are currently pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How exactly do you use this gel?
It is very important to know exactly how to use this.
This medicine is for vaginal use only. Do not take it by mouth for any reason.
This gel is inserted into the vagina and a special disposable device called an ``applicator`` is included with the medicine. The instructions for using it are clearly explained step by step in the leaflet that comes with the medicine. Use only the prescribed amount and the prescribed number of times as prescribed by the doctor. Do not use more than that.
What if the medicine is used too much?
If you suddenly feel that you have taken too much of this medicine, do not panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Things to be careful about when using this medicine
- Regular check-ups: It is essential to see your doctor at the scheduled times and have your condition checked.
- Other vaginal medications: If your doctor has prescribed you another vaginal medication, you should leave at least 6 hours between using this Progesterone Gel and that medication. Talk to your doctor about this and get specific advice.
- White discharge: When using this gel, you may notice a white, thick liquid (the remnants of the gel) coming out of your vagina. This is normal. However, if it bothers you, feels itchy, or has a bad odor, tell your doctor.
- Sharing medication: This medication is for you only. Do not give it to a friend, even if they have the same symptoms as you.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people. Some of them are not serious, but some symptoms are worth being very careful about.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Symptoms of a blood clot | Leg pain, swelling or warmth to the touch, difficulty breathing, chest pain. |
| Symptoms of a stroke | Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, difficulty speaking, difficulty walking, severe headache. |
| Other serious symptoms | Breast lumps, redness, or pain, signs of liver problems (pain on the right side of the abdomen, yellowing of the skin or eyes), sudden changes in vision, unusual vaginal discharge or itching, and worsening depression. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Minor side effects | Bloating, breast pain, drowsiness, mild headache, minor changes in menstrual cycle, mood swings, nausea, and mild vaginal irritation. |
How should I store the medicine?
This is very simple. Keep the medicine box in a safe place out of the reach of children . Store at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius) , away from excessive heat or cold. Never use or discard after the expiration date.
Take-Home Message
- Progesterone vaginal gel is an important hormonal treatment to help with pregnancy. Always use it as directed by your doctor, in the correct dosage.
- Before you start using the medicine, tell your doctor about your full medical history (especially blood clots and cancer).
- This gel is for vaginal use only. Do not take it by mouth.
- If you experience serious symptoms such as severe leg pain, swelling, difficulty breathing, or vision changes, go to your doctor or the nearest hospital emergency room (ETU) immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with others. Talk openly with your doctor about any questions or concerns you have.
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