Progestin: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When you hear progestin, a synthetic hormone designed to mimic the effects of natural progesterone in the body. Also known as progestogen, it’s a key player in hormonal birth control, menopause therapy, and treating conditions like irregular periods or endometriosis. Unlike natural progesterone, which your ovaries make, progestin is lab-made. That difference matters—because it affects how your body reacts, what side effects you might get, and which brand works best for you.

Progestin doesn’t work alone. It’s often paired with estrogen in pills, patches, or rings. But it also stands alone—in IUDs like Mirena, implants like Nexplanon, or shots like Depo-Provera. Some forms, like Duphaston, a brand name for dydrogesterone, a type of progestin used to support pregnancy and regulate cycles, are chosen specifically because they act more like your body’s own hormone. Others, like levonorgestrel or norethindrone, are stronger and longer-lasting, making them ideal for birth control but sometimes harder on your mood or skin.

It’s not just about preventing pregnancy. Doctors use progestin to treat heavy bleeding, shrink uterine fibroids, and even help with symptoms of menopause. But it’s not one-size-fits-all. Someone with a history of blood clots might avoid certain types. Someone trying to get pregnant might need a specific form to support the lining of the uterus. And if you’ve tried one pill and felt off—depressed, bloated, or moody—it’s not you. It’s likely the type of progestin. That’s why comparing options like dydrogesterone, a progestin with fewer androgenic side effects, often preferred for fertility support versus norethindrone makes a real difference.

What you’ll find below isn’t just a list of articles. It’s a practical guide to how progestin fits into real-life treatment. You’ll see how Duphaston compares to other progesterone options, why some women respond better to one form over another, and how these hormones interact with conditions like endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome. There are no fluff pieces here—just clear comparisons, real-world side effects, and the facts you need to talk to your doctor with confidence. Whether you’re on birth control, trying to conceive, or managing menopause symptoms, the right progestin can change everything. Let’s get you the right one.