Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 9/20/2025

Progesterone-Related Side Effects in Menopausal Hormone Therapy

Clinical Considerations

  • Transdermal routes of hormone administration may cause fewer side effects than oral routes, particularly for symptoms related to fluid retention 1

Management Approaches

  • The American College of Physicians recommends using the lowest effective dose of progesterone for the shortest possible time to minimize side effects, such as bloating and weight gain, in women on menopausal hormone replacement therapy 2, 1