iThyroid.com

Progesterone Use

Several women have reported that the use of synthetic progesterone such as Provera or progesterone-based birth control pills have set off or increased hyperthyroidism.

While estrogen (three hormones, estradiol, estrone, and estriol) is the dominant female hormone that regulate sexual characteristics and behavior, progesterone seems to be the hormone that drives sexual, hormone driven behavior.  It is also an antagonist of estrogen.

When progesterone and estrogen get out of balance, abnormalities can occur. 

Story 1:

Subj: DepoProvera Injections and Hypothyroidism
Date: 1/12/01 6:13:46 AM Pacific Standard Time
From: Donna

Five years ago, when I had finally lost the weight I needed to lose after the birth of my child, I got the brilliant notion to take the DepoProvera shot for birth control. It sounded ideal at the time. I consulted my OB/GYN, an older MD who had delivered my sister...and this wise old man told me NO,NO,NO!!! The side effects of the drug far outweigh any so-called benefits.

I didn't listen. I found a younger MD, received the shot, ONE shot, and 8 weeks later weighed 40 pounds heavier, had to be treated for hypertension and depression. I joined a gym, diet and exercise were futile efforts. I am a nurse and was discussing my problem with a co-worker one day when an endocrinologist arrived on the unit and overheard the conversation. He explained that the drug can cause hypothyroidism and to have my regular MD draw a TSH. BINGO. My regular MD and my new GYN were completely unaware of the potential side effect of this drug. 

I lost 1/2 the weight, but am seeing a steady gain again. I have been researching areas where diet can influence this condition, in an effort to find a proper and potentially successful way to lose weight. I have been told that I will be treated for this condition for the rest of my life as a result of taking one injection...My hope is that others will weigh the risks before trying this potentially life-altering drug.