Progesterone Gel
Susten 8% (1.35g Tube)
What is Progesterone Gel used for?
Pregesterone Gel (Susten 8%) helps prepare the lining of the uterus for the arrival and implantation of the embryo. After implantation, progesterone gel helps maintain the pregnancy until the placenta is able to provide its own hormonal support.
Progesterone is a hormone that is produced by the ovaries during the
second half of the menstrual cycle. It is an essential hormone for preparing the uterus (womb) for pregnancy and on-going support of pregnancy.
The lack of normal progesterone production by the ovaries in the second half of the menstrual cycle is called luteal phase defect. Women who have this defect may have difficulties in becoming pregnant and may have a higher risk of miscarriage.
Progesterone Gel is used to supplement progesterone in women who have luteal phase defect. Progesterone Gel is also used to supplement or replace your own natural progesterone in Assisted Reproductive Technology (eg IVF) program.
Progesterone Gel Precautions
Do not use Progesterone Gel if:
- you have ever had an allergic reaction to progesterone. Some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction may include: rash (itching or hives) on the skin, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other parts of the body, shortness of breath, wheezing or troubled breathing or a tight feeling in your chest.
cancer of the breast and genital organs
You have abnormal vaginal bleeding that has not been diagnosed, or is due to a recent or current missed abortion or miscarriage
you have or have ever had blood clots
you have liver disease or abnormal laboratory results
You must tell your doctor if:
- You have allergies to any other medicines or any other substances, such as foods, preservatives or dyes
you are breast feeding
you are or have been very depressed
you are using other vaginal medications
you suffer from migraines or epilepsy or asthma
you suffer from heart or kidney or liver disease
See your doctor for a check-up before you start to use progesterone gel. The check-up should include a Pap smear, pelvic examination and breast examination.
Progesterone gel should not be used at the same time as other vaginal preparations.
When taking Progesterone Gel
Be sure to keep all your doctor's appointments so your progress can be checked. Tell any other doctors or pharmacists you visit that you are using progesterone gel. If you are about to start taking any new medicines, tell the doctor or pharmacist that you are using progesterone gel.
Possible side effects of Progesterone Gel
Tell your doctor if you notice any of the other following side effects when using progesterone gel.
Very common side effects:
- cramps, abdominal pain, perineal pain (around the genital & the back passage)
- headache
- breast enlargement or breast pain
- feelings of severe sadness and unworthiness, decreased sexual drive, sleepiness, feeling emotional
- constipation, nausea
- passing urine at night
Common side effects:
- bloating, pain
- dizziness
- vaginal discharge, itiching of the vaginal area, vaginal thrush
- diarrhoea, vomiting
- painful sexual intercourse
- painful joints
How to take Progesterone Gel
Progesterone Gel is applied directly from the applicator deep into the vagina. The applicator is designed to deliver a pre-measured dose of progesterone gel. A small amount of gel will be left in the applicator after usage. Do not be concerned because you will still be receiving the required dose.
The amount of Progesterone Gel used depends on the condition being treated.
Your doctor may prescribe one applicator of Progesterone Gel either daily or twice daily and will advise you when to start treatment. If pregnancy occurs treatment may continue for up to 12 weeks or as directed by your doctor.
Progesterone Gel should be used at the same time each day. If used twice a day, one applicator of Progesterone Gel should be used in the morning and the other at night.