Carol Peterson, RPh, CNP on Progesterone: A Solution for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

In the webinar Defending all forms of bio-identical progesterone, expert compounding pharmacist Carol Peterson, RPh, CNP, highlights a key insight regarding heavy menstrual bleeding: it can often signal insufficient progesterone levels during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle.

The follicular phase is the first half of your cycle, starting on the first day of your period and ending with ovulation. During this time, estrogen is the dominant hormone, but progesterone should also be present in adequate amounts to prepare the uterine lining and balance estrogen's effects.

If progesterone levels are low during the follicular phase, estrogen can lead to excessive build-up of the uterine lining. When your period comes, this thickened lining results in heavier and potentially prolonged bleeding. Carol Peterson emphasizes that adding bio-identical progesterone during the initial 14-16 days of the cycle can often resolve this issue by supporting the normal thickening and shedding of the uterine lining. Note: It's vital to ensure you're using bio-identical progesterone, the real progesterone Carol Peterson refers to, and not a synthetic progestin such as an oral contraceptive or an IUD containing a progestin.

It's important to note that hormonal imbalances are complex, and heavy bleeding can have other causes. However, if you're experiencing this, discussing bio-identical progesterone with a knowledgeable healthcare provider could be a valuable step. Tracking your symptoms and cycle patterns, as you can do through Essend's resources, can help you provide your doctor with important information to inform your treatment plan. This insight from Carol Peterson underscores the intricate dance of hormones in our bodies and how addressing imbalances with the right approach can make a significant difference in our well-being.

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Carol Peterson, RPh, CNP: Empowering Women Through Pharmacy and Nutrition

Carol Peterson is a highly respected expert compounding pharmacist with decades of specialized experience in bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). Her dedication to women's health goes beyond the pharmacy counter; she is also a certified nutritional practitioner, bringing a unique and holistic approach to wellness. Carol’s impressive involvement in numerous associations focused on advancing women's health demonstrates her deep commitment to this cause. Currently, she serves as the Chairwoman for the Integrated Medicine Consortium and passionately co-hosts the radio show "Take Charge of Your Health," where she empowers listeners with knowledge and practical advice. Carol's combined expertise in pharmacy and nutrition makes her a powerful advocate for women seeking optimal health and hormonal balance.

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