Micronized Progesterone: Why It Matters in Hormone Therapy
Micronized Progesterone: Does It Matter?
When we talk about hormone replacement therapy (HRT), most of the attention goes to estrogen — but progesterone is just as important for many women. If you still have your uterus and are taking estrogen, progesterone helps protect the uterine lining from overgrowth. But that’s not the only reason it’s worth talking about.
At Kultivate Women’s Health, we use micronized progesterone — a bioidentical form your body recognizes — instead of synthetic progestins. Here’s why that choice matters.
What Is Micronized Progesterone?
Bioidentical: Chemically identical to the progesterone your ovaries produce.
Micronized: Ground into very small particles so your body can absorb it better when taken by mouth.
FDA-Approved: Available as Prometrium® (peanut oil base) and in compounded versions if you need a peanut-free option.
Benefits of Micronized Progesterone
1. Supports Sleep
Taken at night, micronized progesterone can have a calming effect, improving sleep quality in many women.
2. Helps Stabilize Mood
Particularly in perimenopause, micronized progesterone can help reduce irritability, ease anxiety, and support emotional balance.
3. Uterine Protection
Prevents overgrowth of the endometrial lining (endometrial hyperplasia), which can occur when estrogen is used alone.
4. Neutral (or Positive) on Heart and Metabolic Health
Unlike some synthetic progestins, micronized progesterone does not appear to negate the cardiovascular benefits of estrogen started near menopause.
5. Better Tolerability
Research shows micronized progesterone has fewer side effects — like mood changes and bloating — compared to synthetic progestins.
How It’s Different from Synthetic Progestins
Synthetic progestins (like medroxyprogesterone acetate in Prempro®) are chemically altered to act like progesterone, but they interact with other hormone receptors in the body, leading to more side effects and, in some studies, higher risks for certain health issues.
Micronized progesterone works exactly like your own hormone, making it the preferred choice in modern HRT protocols.
How to Take Micronized Progesterone
Oral capsule — most commonly taken at bedtime.
Typical dose: 100–300 mg nightly, depending on your needs.
Who Shouldn’t Use Micronized Progesterone?
Women with progesterone hormone-sensitive cancers may need alternatives
If you have a peanut allergy, we can prescribe a peanut-free compounded version.
The Bottom Line
Micronized progesterone is an essential part of safe, effective HRT — and it offers benefits beyond uterine protection, including better sleep, better mood and fewer side effects. At Kultivate Women’s Health, we choose bioidentical hormones because they’re backed by science, well-tolerated, and can help you feel your best.
Considering hormone therapy?
Schedule your consultation today: www.kultivatewomenshealth.com/visit
Reference
Stute, P., Wildt, L., & Neulen, J. (2018). The impact of micronized progesterone on the endometrium: A systematic review. Climacteric, 21(4), 305–314. https://doi.org/10.1080/13697137.2018.1472569