Everything you need to know about Utrogestan

If you have a womb, progesterone is an essential part of your HRT treatment. When oestrogen levels increase with HRT, the lining of the womb can thicken. Over time, this can slightly increase the chance of endometrial cancer.

Taking progesterone alongside oestrogen protects the womb lining from thickening. It balances the effects of oestrogen and removes this increased risk.

Utrogestan is a body-identical progesterone treatment that provides the progesterone needed as part of HRT. It works to keep the lining of the womb thin and healthy.

If you have a womb, it is important that progesterone is included in your HRT treatment plan.

Yes, Utrogestan is a body-identical hormone. It is derived from plants and is biochemically identical to the progesterone naturally produced by your body. Some progesterone medications you can take as part of HRT are not body identical - these are often called synthetic progestogens.

Body-identical progesterone is often better tolerated and has fewer risks and side effects compared to older forms of progestogens. This makes it a preferred option for many patients using HRT.

Utrogestan is a safe form of progesterone when used correctly as part of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). It is body-identical progesterone – Utrogestan contains micronised progesterone, which is biochemically identical to the progesterone naturally produced by the body.

Progesterone is difficult for the body to absorb through the skin and digestive system. By micronising it (breaking it down into ultra-fine particles) and suspending it in oil, its absorption improves significantly when taken in capsule form.

✔ Lower risk of side effects – Compared to synthetic progestogens, Utrogestan is less likely to cause bloating, mood changes, or breast tenderness.

✔ Supports womb health – When taken alongside oestrogen, it helps protect the lining of the womb (endometrium) and reduces the risk of endometrial cancer.

✔ Fewer cardiovascular risks – Unlike some synthetic progestogens, Utrogestan does not increase the risk of blood clots or stroke.

Menopause is a time of change, and many women will experience weight gain as part of the transition. Weight gain during the menopause can have many different factors.

When it comes to taking Utrogestan, there is no evidence that this causes weight gain. However, every woman is different and side effects are deeply personal. If you are taking Utrogestan and worried about weight gain, it’s worth tracking your symptoms and keeping a food diary to try and isolate what might be causing fluctuations in weight.

The timing of bleeding on Utrogestan depends on how you take the medication and your menopausal status.

Perimenopausal Women (Still Having Periods)

If you are perimenopausal, Utrogestan is usually prescribed cyclically. This means it is taken for the second half of the month, rather than daily.

• When Utrogestan is taken cyclically, bleeding typically occurs after stopping the medication. This is called a withdrawal bleed and happens because the progesterone levels drop, triggering the shedding of the womb lining.

Postmenopausal Women (No Periods for Over a Year)

If you are postmenopausal, Utrogestan is usually taken daily as part of a continuous HRT regimen.

• In this case, monthly bleeding should not occur. The continuous balance of oestrogen and progesterone helps keep the womb lining thin and stable.

Irregular Bleeding on HRT

It is common to experience some changes in bleeding patterns when starting HRT. This can feel unsettling, but in most cases, bleeding settles within three to six months.

If you experience unexpected or prolonged bleeding, it is important to discuss this with your doctor to ensure your treatment is working as it should. Your doctor may send you for investigations or scans to look into the cause of bleeding.

Women who take Utrogestan cyclically (for 12-14 days of the month) will experience a withdrawal bleed after stopping the medication. This is a normal response to the drop in progesterone levels.

While this bleed may feel like a period, it is not technically the same. Ovulation may not have occurred, but the womb lining is still shed in a regular monthly pattern.

If you experience unexpected bleeding or have concerns about your bleeding pattern, speak with your doctor.

Yes, all our expert clinicians can prescribe Utrogestan. If you book into a consultation your doctor will review your symptoms and medical history, and talk through your options.

Whilst many women do start Utrogestan through our service with a form of oestrogen hormone replacement therapy, the final prescription decision will be with the prescribing clinician. We can not guarantee any prescriptions.

It is recommended to take Utrogestan at least two hours after eating. This is because food can increase the absorption of progesterone, which may lead to stronger effects or side effects such as drowsiness.

However, if you take Utrogestan with food or your bedtime is not two hours after eating, do not worry. It is a safe medication to take at any time. If possible, taking it just before going to sleep is recommended as it may help with your sleep.