Side Effects

Dr. Lee believes that progesterone cream is very safe and produces little or no side effects. He notes that progesterone levels are very high during the third trimester of pregnancy, indicating that there is little chance of overdosing on the cream. However, recommended usage should be followed to avoid hormone imbalances. Dr. Joseph Mercola, an osteopathic physician and leading natural health care practitioner, believes that care must be taken when using progesterone cream to avoid the accumulation of progesterone in fat tissue. An excess of progesterone can cause imbalances in hormones produced by the adrenal glands, including testosterone, cortisol, and DHEA. Imbalances in these critical hormones can lead to various side effects.

Testosterone Imbalances

Testosterone, the male sex hormone, supports sexual functioning in both men and women. Testosterone deficiencies can cause low sex drives. Too much testosterone in women can lead to acne, excess body hair, deepening of the voice, and effects on blood cholesterol.

Cortisol Imbalances

Cortisol is a stress hormone that affects the metabolism of glucose, protein and fats. Cortisol imbalances can cause weight gain, immune system deficiencies and premature aging, and have also been associated with anxiety, depression and heart disease.

DHEA Imbalances

DHEA is a hormone that improves memory, boosts energy, and enhances the immune system. If DHEA and cortisol levels are imbalanced, it can lead to immune system deficiencies and leave an individual less able to cope with stress. DHEA imbalances have also been associated with depression, cancer, obesity, Alzheimer's and cardiovascular disease.

Keeping Adrenal Hormones Balanced

Normalizing the adrenal hormones will help prevent imbalances and, Dr. Mercola believes, can in some cases reduce or eliminate the need for progesterone cream. This hormone normalization is possible with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, and can be achieved in as little as three to six months. Getting enough rest, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and finding healthy ways to deal with emotional stress are also crucial in keeping hormone levels balanced. To avoid elevated levels of progesterone, changes in concentration should be used to mimic the body's natural cyclical hormone production.