What it means
A hormone made mainly by the ovaries after ovulationov-yuh-LAY-shunThe release of a mature egg from an ovary, usually once in each menstrual cycle.Full entry , and by the placenta in pregnancy. It thickens and holds the lining of the uterus; when its level falls, menstruationmen-stroo-AY-shunThe monthly shedding of the lining of the uterus, which leaves the body as blood through the vagina.Full entry begins. As a drug it is used in fertility treatment, to support early pregnancy, to protect the uterus lining in women taking estrogenES-truh-jenA female sex hormone, made mainly by the ovaries, and the group of drugs that act like it.Full entry after menopause, and for missed periods.
For the nurse
The oral capsules carry a boxed warning, shared with estrogen-plus-progestin therapy, about heart disease, stroke, blood clots, breast cancer and dementia. Prometrium capsules contain peanut oil, so ask about peanut allergy. Teach the client to report leg pain or swelling, chest pain, sudden vision changes and unusual bleeding. The oral form can cause drowsiness and is often taken at bedtime.
At a glance
| Drug class | progestin (female hormone) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Prometrium (oral capsules); Crinone (vaginal gel); Endometrin (vaginal insert) |
| Spanish | progesterona |
| Also written | Prometrium, Crinone, Endometrin |
Related terms
menopause
The time in a woman's life when menstrual periods stop for good, counted once there has been no period for 12 months in a row.
estrogen
A female sex hormone, made mainly by the ovaries, and the group of drugs that act like it.
menstruation
The monthly shedding of the lining of the uterus, which leaves the body as blood through the vagina.
infertility
Not being able to become pregnant after a year of regular sex without birth control, or after six months for women over 35.
ovulation
The release of a mature egg from an ovary, usually once in each menstrual cycle.