A hormone — natural progesterone or a synthetic progestin — given alongside estrogen in menopausal hormone therapy to protect the lining of the uterus.
Updated Jul 18, 2026
A progestogen is a hormone that acts on the body like progesterone. The term covers both natural progesterone and synthetic versions known as progestins.
In menopausal hormone therapy, a progestogen is often given together with estrogen for people who have a uterus. Estrogen on its own can cause the uterine lining to build up, which raises the risk of uterine cancer, and the progestogen counteracts that effect to protect the lining. The specific type and dose are decided with a prescriber.
hormonesmenopause
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Related terms
Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) — Estrogen, usually combined with a progestogen (when the uterus is present), used to relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and to protect bone. Often just called 'HRT.' It is associated with less visceral fat but is not a weight-loss treatment.
Visceral fat — Fat stored deep in the abdomen around the internal organs, which is more strongly tied to metabolic and cardiovascular risk than fat under the skin.
Obstructive sleep apnea — A sleep disorder in which the airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, causing brief pauses in breathing; it is closely linked to obesity.
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