From the Guidelines
It is generally not recommended to take progesterone with a hormonal IUD, as the IUD already releases a form of progesterone (levonorgestrel) into the uterus 1. However, if your healthcare provider has advised you to take progesterone, it's likely for a specific medical reason, such as to manage heavy bleeding or to support pregnancy.
Key Considerations
- The hormonal IUD already contains a form of progesterone, which may make additional progesterone supplementation unnecessary 2.
- If you have an intact uterus and are 39 years old with a hormonal IUD, your healthcare provider may consider prescribing progesterone (such as micronized progesterone 100-200mg orally once daily) for a short duration (e.g., 10-14 days) to address a specific medical issue 3.
- Potential benefits and risks of taking progesterone with a hormonal IUD should be discussed with your healthcare provider, who can assess your individual situation and provide personalized guidance 4, 5.
Important Factors to Discuss with Your Healthcare Provider
- Your medical history and any underlying conditions that may affect your ability to take progesterone with a hormonal IUD.
- The specific type and dose of progesterone being considered, as well as the duration of treatment.
- Any potential interactions between progesterone and other medications you are taking.
From the FDA Drug Label
PATIENT INFORMATION Progesterone Capsules, 100 mg and 200 mg Rx only Protection of the Endometrium (Lining of the Uterus) Progesterone capsules are used in combination with estrogen-containing medications in a postmenopausal woman with a uterus (womb). Taking estrogen-alone increases the chance of developing a condition called endometrial hyperplasia that may lead to cancer of the lining of the uterus (womb) The addition of a progestin is generally recommended for a woman with a uterus to reduce the chance of getting cancer of the uterus (womb).
The FDA drug label does not answer the question about taking progesterone with a hormonal Intrauterine Device (IUD) for a 39-year-old woman with an intact uterus.
From the Research
Progesterone and Hormonal IUD Use
- A 39-year-old woman with an intact uterus can consider using a hormonal Intrauterine Device (IUD) as a form of contraception or to manage heavy menstrual bleeding 6, 7, 8.
- The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (LNG IUS) is a type of hormonal IUD that has been shown to be effective in reducing heavy menstrual bleeding and improving quality of life 8.
- The LNG IUS works by releasing a small amount of levonorgestrel, a progestin, into the uterus, which helps to thin the lining of the uterus and reduce bleeding 7, 8.
- Studies have compared the effectiveness of the LNG IUS to other forms of progesterone, such as oral or vaginal natural progesterone, and have found that the LNG IUS is a safe and effective option for women with an intact uterus 9, 10.
Safety and Efficacy
- The LNG IUS has been shown to be safe and effective for women with an intact uterus, with a low risk of adverse effects such as pelvic pain, breast tenderness, and ovarian cysts 7, 8.
- The LNG IUS has also been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of endometrial hyperplasia, a condition that can increase the risk of cancer 9.
- Studies have found that the LNG IUS is a cost-effective option for women with heavy menstrual bleeding, compared to other forms of treatment such as endometrial ablation or hysterectomy 8.
Considerations for Use
- Women with an intact uterus who are considering using a hormonal IUD should discuss their options with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for their individual needs 6, 7, 8.
- The LNG IUS is not suitable for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or who have certain medical conditions such as liver disease or breast cancer 7, 8.
- Women who are using a hormonal IUD should be aware of the potential risks and benefits of the device, and should follow up with their healthcare provider regularly to monitor their health and adjust their treatment as needed 9, 10.