Progestin: What It Is, How It's Used, and What You Need to Know

When you hear progestin, a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone used in hormonal therapies. Also known as progestogen, it's not just a component of birth control pills—it's in IUDs, patches, injections, and even some menopause treatments. Many people think it’s the same as progesterone, but it’s not. Progesterone comes from your body or is made from plant sources, while progestin is lab-made to mimic its effects. That difference matters because progestin can have side effects progesterone doesn’t, and not all progestins work the same way.

Progestin shows up in hormone therapy, treatments that adjust hormone levels for conditions like menopause or infertility because it balances estrogen. Without it, estrogen can overstimulate the uterine lining, raising cancer risk. That’s why women taking estrogen for hot flashes also get progestin—unless they’ve had a hysterectomy. It’s also the key player in most birth control, methods designed to prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation or thickening cervical mucus. Not all pills are the same: some have a steady dose, others mimic your natural cycle. Even the mini-pill, which has no estrogen, is all progestin.

It’s not just about contraception or menopause. Progestin helps with heavy periods, endometriosis, and even some types of abnormal uterine bleeding. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all. Some types, like medroxyprogesterone, can cause weight gain or mood changes. Others, like norethindrone, are used in acne treatment. And then there’s drospirenone, which acts like a diuretic—useful for bloating but risky if you have kidney issues. The brand you get, the dose, and how long you take it all change how your body responds.

You’ll find progestin linked to many of the medications covered in the posts below. It’s in hormone therapies like Premarin, where it’s paired with estrogen. It’s in birth control pills that interact with antibiotics or supplements. It’s in treatments for conditions like BPH or thyroid issues where hormone balance affects drug absorption. Some people take progestin for years without issue. Others notice side effects quickly—fatigue, headaches, or changes in mood. Knowing which kind you’re on and why it was chosen makes all the difference.

There’s no single "best" progestin. What works for one person might cause problems for another. That’s why doctors tailor choices based on your health history, symptoms, and goals. Whether you’re using it for birth control, managing menopause, or treating a hormonal condition, understanding how progestin fits into your overall treatment plan helps you ask better questions and spot red flags early.

Below, you’ll find real-world comparisons, safety tips, and side-by-side breakdowns of medications that include or interact with progestin. From hormone therapies to birth control alternatives, these posts cut through the noise and show you what actually matters for your health.