Pharmacokinetics of progesterone concentrations was around 4 hours and the elimination half-life was in the range of 30 to 40 hours. The venous blood levels observed were very low. Because progesterone is a lipophilic and hydrophobic compound, it is not absorbed efficiently by the skin. Moreover, because the body produces about 25 mg progesterone per day on average during the luteal phase, around 50% of the body would need to be used as a surface of absorption to deliver a similar quantity of progesterone. As such, the transdermal route cannot easily achieve adequate circulating progesterone levels, and this makes transdermal progesterone impractical for
Menstrual cycle Menstrual cycle The menstrual cycle is the regular natural change that occurs in the female reproductive system (specifically the uterus and ovaries) that makes pregnancy possible. The cycle is required for the production of oocytes, and for the preparation of the uterus for pregnancy. Up to 80% of women report having some symptoms during the one to two weeks prior to menstruation. Common symptoms include acne, tender breasts, bloating, feeling tired, irritability and mood changes. These symptoms interfere with normal life and therefore qualify as premenstrual syndrome in 20 to 30% of women. In 3 to 8%, they are severe.