Hi Anonymous and thanks for bringing your concerns to the EmpowHER community.
Yes, using a progesterone cream can lead to weight gain, from both the drug itself and also from the side effects, which can include bloating and swelling. Progesterone side effects can also include depression, an increased appetite, fatigue and weakness, all of which can lead to overeating and make exercising difficult. An increased dosage could magnify the side effects you are already experiencing.
You will need to get a medical opinion, based on your entire health history, on whether an increased dosage would help or hurt you.
If you are experiencing fluid retention and swelling (edema) you may want to discuss the benefits of taking a diuretic with your doctor. Also known as water pills, they help increase urine output which then reduces the weight gain and swelling from retaining water.
You may also find it helpful to join a support group for women with PCOS as there may be other women there who have the same concerns you do. I've heard good things about the Soul Cysters site. Here's a link to an article on the site about PCOS and diet which you may find helpful and there are many other good features on the site.
A good friend's daughter has PCOS and she too has very frustrating experiences with her doctor appointments. I am sorry that you too are having a difficult time, and hope that this information is helpful to you. Please don't give up and continue to seek the help that you need.
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Hi Anonymous and thanks for bringing your concerns to the EmpowHER community.
Yes, using a progesterone cream can lead to weight gain, from both the drug itself and also from the side effects, which can include bloating and swelling. Progesterone side effects can also include depression, an increased appetite, fatigue and weakness, all of which can lead to overeating and make exercising difficult. An increased dosage could magnify the side effects you are already experiencing.
You will need to get a medical opinion, based on your entire health history, on whether an increased dosage would help or hurt you.
If you are experiencing fluid retention and swelling (edema) you may want to discuss the benefits of taking a diuretic with your doctor. Also known as water pills, they help increase urine output which then reduces the weight gain and swelling from retaining water.
You may also find it helpful to join a support group for women with PCOS as there may be other women there who have the same concerns you do. I've heard good things about the Soul Cysters site. Here's a link to an article on the site about PCOS and diet which you may find helpful and there are many other good features on the site.
http://soulcysters.com/the-role-that-diet-plays-in-pcos-2/
A good friend's daughter has PCOS and she too has very frustrating experiences with her doctor appointments. I am sorry that you too are having a difficult time, and hope that this information is helpful to you. Please don't give up and continue to seek the help that you need.
Best,
Pat
November 14, 2014 - 6:18pmThis Comment
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