Progesterone Cream (OTC) — Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is OTC progesterone cream the same as prescription progesterone?
Is OTC progesterone cream the same as prescription progesterone?
Both contain USP-grade bioidentical progesterone that is structurally identical to the progesterone your body produces. The key differences are dosage control, regulation, and delivery method. Prescription forms (oral Prometrium, vaginal inserts) have more rigorous clinical evidence and predictable blood levels. OTC creams deliver progesterone transdermally with more variable absorption. OTC creams are not FDA-regulated as drugs and thus have less standardized quality control.
Where should I apply progesterone cream?
Where should I apply progesterone cream?
Apply to areas with thin skin and good blood flow: inner wrists, inner arms, chest, neck, or inner thighs. Rotate application sites to prevent skin saturation, which can reduce absorption over time. Avoid applying to fatty areas like the abdomen, as progesterone can accumulate in subcutaneous fat rather than entering the bloodstream efficiently.
Will wild yam cream provide the same benefits as progesterone cream?
Will wild yam cream provide the same benefits as progesterone cream?
No. Wild yam contains diosgenin, which is a precursor used in the laboratory synthesis of progesterone, but the human body cannot convert diosgenin into progesterone. Wild yam creams without added USP progesterone will not raise progesterone levels. Always check labels for "USP progesterone" or "progesterone USP" as an ingredient — this indicates actual bioidentical progesterone is included.
References
- Leonetti HB, Longo S, Anasti JN (1999). Transdermal progesterone cream for vasomotor symptoms and postmenopausal bone loss. Obstetrics & Gynecology. DOI PubMed
- Wren BG, McFarland K, Edwards L, O'Shea P, Sufi S, Gross B, Eden JA (2000). Effect of sequential transdermal progesterone cream on endometrium, bleeding pattern, and plasma progesterone and salivary progesterone levels in postmenopausal women. Climacteric. DOI PubMed