Over the years, progesterone has gotten a bit of a bad reputation. This is due, in large, to the fact that the synthetic progesterone, Provera®, has been shown to cause a host of complications, including an increased risk for heart attack or stroke. This is because synthetic progesterone does not function the same way as natural progesterone. Natural progesterone has been shown to balance and compliment estrogen, improving heart health. Provera® does not.

Unfortunately, the negative image of progesterone replacement therapy that has been caused by the harmful effects of synthetic progesterone has spilled over onto bioidentical progesterone, which does work in exactly the same healthful and helpful way as the body’s own progesterone. It does so, because it is, in fact, exactly molecularly the same. To clear up the misunderstandings about progesterone (and to restore its good standing), let’s take a look at the difference between bioidentical progesterone and Provera®.

To begin with, Provera® is not actually progesterone at all, though it is molecularly similar. It is actually a chemical called medroxyprogesterone. The difference in its structure, though slight, is enough to radically alter its function in the body. So why the molecular difference? Sadly, it is a matter of monetary benefit for pharmaceutical companies, not a matter of benefit for patients receiving progesterone replacement therapy. Natural progesterone cannot be patented, but a slightly different molecule can be. Therefore, it is more profitable for pharmaceutical companies to develop and promote synthetic hormones, even though they function less effectively and can, in fact, be harmful.

Bioidentical progesterone, on the other hand, is exactly the same as the progesterone that is produced naturally within the body. This is why we refer to it as “bioidentical” or “natural” progesterone. It works the same as the body’s progesterone because it actually is the same.

Synthetic hormones, like Provera® increase the risk of stroke and heart disease, because they promote the buildup of plaque in the blood vessels. Of course, it is this plaque that presents the risk of heart disease and stroke. Bioidentical progesterone, on the other hand, helps to prevent the buildup of cholesterol plaque, protecting the heart and reducing the chances of a stroke, just as progesterone is supposed to.

It is important that every woman and physician understand the crucial difference between bioidentical hormones and synthetic ones. Any woman who is considering hormone replacement therapy or who is already undergoing treatment with synthetic hormones should discuss the benefits of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy with a specially trained doctor. Good health and long life should does not have to carry unnecessary risk.

Material provided is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent disease and has not been evaluated by the FDA.