Progestin: definition and meaning
A progestin is a synthetic hormone made to act like progesterone in the body. Progestins are used in most hormonal contraception, including the pill, implant, shot and hormonal IUD, and in menopause hormone therapy to protect the uterine lining. In the UK and Europe, the umbrella term progestogen covers both natural progesterone and progestins.
Where progestins are used
| Use | Examples |
|---|---|
| Combined pill, patch, ring | Progestin plus estrogen |
| Progestin-only pill | Norethindrone, desogestrel, drospirenone |
| Implant and shot | Etonogestrel, medroxyprogesterone |
| Hormonal IUD | Levonorgestrel |
| Menopause hormone therapy | Protects the lining when estrogen is used |
| Emergency contraception | Levonorgestrel |
How progestins prevent pregnancy
- Thicken cervical mucus so sperm can't get through
- Thin the uterine lining
- Stop ovulation in many methods, especially at higher doses
Progestin vs progesterone
Natural progesterone is identical to the hormone your body makes. Progestins are similar but not the same: some also have mild androgen-like or anti-androgen effects, which is why different pills can affect skin, hair and mood differently. Bleeding on the pill-free days is a withdrawal bleed, caused by stopping the hormones.
Progestins and mood
Most people have no mood change on progestin methods, but some notice low mood, irritability or anxiety, particularly if they are sensitive to hormone shifts or have a history of PMDD. Switching to a different progestin or method often helps. Read birth control and mood.
Talk to your doctor if your mood drops after starting a hormonal method. Seek help right away if you have thoughts of harming yourself.
Frequently asked questions
Is progestin the same as progesterone?
No. Progestins are synthetic and act like progesterone, but their chemistry and side effects differ.
Do all birth control methods contain progestin?
Most hormonal ones do. The copper IUD, condoms and fertility awareness methods have no hormones.
Can a progestin cause spotting?
Yes. Irregular spotting is common on progestin-only methods, especially in the first months. See breakthrough bleeding.
Sources
This page is for information only and isn鈥檛 medical advice. If something worries you, please talk to a doctor.
Keep reading
Progesterone: definition and meaningProgesterone is the hormone made after ovulation that prepares the uterus for pregnancy. Its role in the luteal phase, PMS, mood, sleep and temperature.
Combined contraceptive pill: definition and meaningThe combined contraceptive pill contains estrogen and a progestin to stop ovulation. How it works, why pill bleeds aren't real periods, and mood effects.Hormonal IUD: definition and meaningA hormonal IUD is a small T-shaped device in the uterus that releases a progestin. How it works, how it changes periods, and possible effects on mood.
Birth control and mood: can the pill cause mood swings?Birth control mood swings, anxiety and depression: what research shows, why some people feel better and others worse, and how to track it before you decide.Coming off the pill: what to expect, week by weekComing off the pill: when your period returns, how fast fertility comes back, which old symptoms may return, how mood can change, and when to see a doctor.