Has your doctor prescribed you to insert the hormone progesterone vaginally? Maybe you are expecting a baby. Or maybe you are in the early stages of pregnancy. It is very normal to feel a little scared, curious, and confused when you hear about this medicine. Questions like "How do I insert this?", "What will happen with this?", "Are there any side effects?" probably come to mind. So don't worry, today we will talk about what this medicine is, what it does, and what you need to be careful about when using it.
Simply put, what is Progesterone?
Progesterone is a very important hormone that is naturally produced in our bodies, especially in women. The services this hormone performs before and throughout pregnancy are endless. Simply put, it keeps your uterus healthy and creates the best environment for your baby to grow safely.
Sometimes, the level of this Progesterone hormone in the body of some women may decrease. That is when the doctor gives this hormone externally. This vaginal insert that you have been given is a medicine that increases the level of Progesterone. These belong to the group of hormones called `(Progestin)`.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
It is important for your own safety to be open and honest about your health history with your doctor. It is especially important to tell your doctor if you have or have had any of the following conditions:
- If you have blood vessel disease, blood clotting problems , or have had a stroke before.
- If you have or have had breast, cervical, or vaginal cancer .
- If you have heart disease, kidney disease, or liver disease .
- If you have had a previous miscarriage .
- If you have vaginal bleeding for no known reason.
- If you have an allergic reaction to progesterone or other hormones, medications, foods, or food coloring.
- If you are already pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding .
How exactly do you use this medicine?
This is a very simple thing, but it's important to do it right.
Remember! This is a vaginal medication, not something you take by mouth.
1. First, wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
2. Follow the instructions on the prescription label. Use the medicine exactly as your doctor tells you, and at the times prescribed.
3. You can get good results by using it at the right time, around the same time every day.
4. Wash your hands thoroughly again after injecting the medicine.
5. Never stop using this medicine without medical advice.
What if the medicine is used too much?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not panic. Go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of your nearest hospital immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
This medicine has been prescribed for you by your doctor. Never share it with anyone else. It can be dangerous.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
This may happen, but don't worry. 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.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
Some medications can interact with progesterone, for example, drugs like `(Carbamazepine)` and `(Rifampin)`.
Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, herbs, and supplements you are taking. Also, let them know if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Most importantly: Do not use any other vaginal cream, gel, or medication without first consulting your doctor.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. But not everyone gets them. Let's break them down into two categories.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Blood clot | Leg pain, swelling, warmth, difficulty breathing, chest pain. |
| Stroke | Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, difficulty speaking, confusion, difficulty walking, severe headache. |
| Liver injury | Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stools, dark yellow or brown urine, and yellowing of the eyes or skin. |
| Changes in the breasts | New lumps, redness, pain, or discharge from the nipple. |
| Vision changes | Sudden eye pain, blurred vision, seeing rings around lights, loss of vision. |
| Mental changes | Worsening of existing depression, or severe mood changes. |
| Side effects that are usually nothing to worry about, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Filling the stomach | This is a common occurrence. |
| Breast pain/tenderness | It can be caused by hormonal changes. |
| Dizziness (vertigo) / drowsiness | It can occur early in the course of using the drug. |
| Headache, nausea | This is also common. |
| Irregular menstrual cycle | Slight spotting may occur. |
| Swelling of hands and feet | It may be due to fluid retention in the body. |
| Vaginal discomfort | There may be slight swelling or discomfort at the injection site. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual, talk to your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Progesterone is an important hormone that supports pregnancy and keeps the uterus healthy. This medicine is given to increase the level of this hormone in the body.
- This medicine is only for vaginal insertion . It is not for oral use.
- Use the medicine exactly as your doctor tells you, at the right time and in the right amount.
- Tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have and all other medications you are taking.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any severe side effects such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, leg swelling, or severe headache.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with others.
- If you have any questions, concerns, or concerns about this medication, don't keep it to yourself, but ask your doctor.
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