Progesterone suppositories are often used during in vitro fertilization (IVF) or to induce menstruation in perimenopausal women who have low progesterone levels. The suppository is made by a pharmacist and can be inserted with or without an applicator. Make sure both your hands and the vaginal area are clean before inserting the suppository. Follow all doctor's instructions for taking and storing your progesterone.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Cleaning Yourself
Step 1. Clean the vaginal area with unscented soap and warm water
Stand in the shower or tub and wet the vaginal area. Use your hands or a clean cloth to rub the soap into your vagina. After rubbing the soap, rinse with warm water until all the soap suds are gone.
- The vaginal area can be a hotbed of bacteria and microbes. You will need to wash the area to ensure that bacteria and microbes do not enter the vagina when inserting the suppository.
- Make sure that the soap you use is unscented, as fragrances can cause fungal infections.
Step 2. Wash your hands with soap and warm water
Wet both hands with warm water, then rub the soap. Rub your hands together to make the soap lather, do this process for 20 seconds. After that, rinse both hands under warm running water until all the soap suds are gone.
Your hands can also be a source of bacteria and microbes, and you don't want them to enter your vagina
Step 3. Be careful when handling suppositories as they may melt
Suppositories are made of progesterone held in a container. When it enters the body, the container will melt and release progesterone. You don't want the suppository to melt in your warm hands. So, hold only a small part of the drug.
It is best to gently hold the suppository with 2 fingers. Never hold it in the palm of your hand
Method 2 of 3: Pushing Suppositories into the Vagina
Step 1. Lie on the bed with your knees bent back toward your chest
This will help open your vagina as wide as possible to make the suppository easier to insert. You can push it deeper through this position than in any other position so the medicine will be more effective.
Pull your legs back as far as possible instead of just bending your knees
Step 2. Place the suppository on your fingertips
You may be able to make the suppository stick to your fingertips. If this does not work, position the suppository at the opening of the vaginal canal. After that, place your fingertips behind the medicine to push it into the vagina.
Remember, touch the suppository gently as it melts easily in your hand
Step 3. Push the suppository into the vagina at your convenience
Suppositories can usually be pushed as far as your finger can reach. If it feels difficult, stop pushing and let the suppository stay where it is.
You should feel no pain or discomfort when inserting the suppository. If you have this feeling, stop pushing and stick your finger out
Step 4. Remove the finger from the vagina
Remove your finger and leave the suppository in place. Make sure the medicine doesn't come out when you remove your finger.
It is very unlikely that the suppository will stick to your finger. If this happens, reinsert the medication into the vagina. Push the medication against the vaginal wall so that it sticks
Step 5. Lower your legs back onto the bed
Relax the body in a lying position for a few moments before getting up. The suppository will begin to melt once you insert it into your vagina.
You do not need to remain lying down after inserting the suppository
Step 6. Wash your hands after inserting the progesterone suppository
Rub hands with soap for 20 seconds, then rinse under warm running water. This will prevent the progesterone from being absorbed into the skin of your hands and fingers.
Method 3 of 3: Taking Medication according to Instructions
Step 1. Read all the information that comes with the suppository
Follow all instructions given by your doctor and pharmacist. Instructions for use of progesterone vary widely, depending on the needs of each individual. So, follow the instructions given by the doctor.
Your suppositories are usually oval or bullet-shaped. This medicine is usually prepared by a pharmacist. So, consult them if you want to ask something
Step 2. Take the missed dose as soon as possible, unless the next dose is near
If you miss progesterone, take it as soon as you remember. It is very important to take the drug as directed, without missing a single dose. However, do not take two doses at one time.
If the time for your next dose is near, skip the missed dose
Step 3. Wear loose, hollow clothes when wearing suppositories
Progesterone will keep the vaginal area moist because the fluid will flow out of the vagina. Wear cotton underwear and a loose-fitting skirt or pants until you finish your prescribed medication.
When using vaginal progesterone, do not wear tight trousers, nylon underwear, or tight shorts. The material in these clothes doesn't provide air space, so you run the risk of getting a yeast infection
Step 4. Put on a pad to protect the panties from oozing out
The suppository will melt in the body and flow slowly from the vagina. You can wear pads to protect your underwear from the liquid.
- Remember to change pads every few hours. You should keep the vaginal area dry to prevent yeast infections.
- If you take suppositories before bed, you will excrete less fluid than if you were active after putting the medicine in.
Step 5. Do not wear tampons while using vaginal progesterone
Tampons can absorb progesterone, reducing their effectiveness. Use pads instead of tampons.
You may start your period while taking progesterone. If this happens, continue to use the pad. Don't wear tampons
Step 6. Store your suppository in the refrigerator to prevent it from thawing
It's best to store your suppositories in a cool, dry place in the refrigerator. This will help keep the shape and make it easier to insert because the medicine will melt easily.
- Some progesterone suppositories can be stored at room temperature. Check the label on the medicine package to be sure.
- Do not freeze your suppositories.
Step 7. Talk to your doctor to discuss the risks of taking progesterone
While progesterone tends to be safe, all medications have their own risks. Your doctor can help you understand how your medical history affects the risks of taking progesterone. Here are some risks that can be consulted with a doctor:
- You should not take progesterone during pregnancy unless this medicine is prescribed as part of your fertility treatment.
- Progesterone can increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, or breast cancer. This risk is even greater if there is a family history or self of the patient suffering from the condition.
Tips
- Take progesterone at the same time each day to make sure you are taking it as prescribed.
- Tell your doctor if you become pregnant while taking progesterone suppositories. However, do not stop taking the drug unless your doctor recommends it. In most cases, you will need to continue taking progesterone for at least 10 weeks.
Warning
- Never take progesterone by mouth.
- Progesterone can cause drowsiness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking this medicine. It is best to take this medicine before going to bed.
- Do not use other vaginal products while you are using progesterone suppositories because they can reduce the effectiveness of these drugs.
- If you use an applicator, don't use it repeatedly unless it can be used multiple times. Applicators are generally made for one-time use only.
