How to elevate progesterone level (which are low due to chronic stress)?

[lmarston]

Hi. I would love to get advice on increasing my progesterone level which, according to a blood test, was low. I am only in my early 40's, yet I've stopped menstruating (as of 6 months ago) and my doctor has told me that if I do not get my period very soon, she wants to put me on hormones (which I would refuse). Her only suggestion was meditation to relieve my constant severe stress and bring my progesterone level back up. While I have not been disciplined about meditating and know I should try it, I'm more intent on trying herbs or other natural remedies. Could holy basil work? Anything else?

Also, is there any natural progesterone without side-effects?

Thank you so much!

[Jennifer Steinbachs]

low thyroid function (even subclinically low) can cause low progesterone.  have you considered iodine supplementation?  hakala labs has a urine test to see how much saturation you have now.   (have you had your thyroid fully checked lately?  google "stop the thyroid madness" to read more about proper testing)

iodine helps the thyroid but it also is required by the adrenals.  breastcancerchoices.org has a protocol for high dose iodine supplementation - it is really really important to have all the co-nutrients in place before you start supplementing.

also, you can get a gentle topical progesterone cream... have you considered that?

[Wildapple]

Blood tests are unreliable for progesterone, estrogen, testosterone.  Google Dr John Lee or google Hotze Health and Wellness Center.  The doctors there don't use blood tests for these hormones, but listen to how the patient feels.