This website has been developed and funded by Besins Healthcare (UK) Ltd and is intended for patients prescribed Prometrium (progesterone)
400mg soft vaginal capsules in the UK.
The information contained on this page does not replace the patient information leaflet that came with your medicine. For further information,
please consult the patient information leaflet which can be found HERE. Side effect reporting can be found at the bottom of this page.
Support for you
It takes a great deal of strength and resilience to continue trying for a baby after pregnancy loss, especially if it isn’t the first time it’s happened. If you’re currently facing a new pregnancy and balancing hope with anxiety, you are not alone.
This space is here to provide comfort, guidance and support. Below you’ll find advice, resources and useful links to help you navigate this journey, one step at a time.
Take it one day at a time
It’s okay to feel a mix of emotions — joy, fear, hope, and anxiety can all exist at once. Try to focus on the present rather than worrying too much about the future. Some people find it helpful to set small milestones rather than looking too far ahead.
Understanding your body
When you become pregnant again, every symptom (or lack of symptoms) might make you feel on edge. While some spotting or cramping can be normal, it’s always okay to check-in with your healthcare professional for reassurance.
Knowing what to expect can help ease some of the uncertainty and give you a sense of control in the process, so if you have any concerns whatsoever, always call your midwife or Early Pregnancy Unit (EPU).
You may have been handed one of our support cards at your appointment with any contact numbers you need. If not, you can download one here and ask your healthcare team to fill it out for you at your next appointment. You’ll then have all the contact details you need in one place and can keep it with you when you’re out and about.
Navigating the uncertainty
Trying again, particularly after previous pregnancy losses, can bring both hope and fear. You may find yourself filled with excitement one moment and overwhelming worry the next. This is completely natural. Every pregnancy is different, but after loss,
it can be hard to trust your body and believe things will be okay.
It’s important to acknowledge these feelings rather than push them away. Finding ways to manage anxiety — whether through mindfulness, speaking to your doctor, or leaning on loved ones — can help you feel more in control.
Together, as a couple
You and your partner may process this journey differently but supporting each other can help you to feel more connected.
- Be patient with different coping styles — they may prefer to talk things through, while you might like to focus on the practical things. Respecting each other’s different ways of coping can help you navigate this journey together.
- Offer practical support — small gestures can make a big difference. Attending appointments together, helping with daily tasks, or simply checking in to see how each other are feeling can be reassuring.
- Celebrate small milestones together — marking moments like the first scan or reaching a certain week can help create positive memories in this pregnancy, while honouring the journey you’ve been on so far.
Opening up to family and friends
Sharing how you feel with family and friends during pregnancy after loss can be incredibly beneficial, even though it might feel daunting:
- Talking to loved ones can help lighten the emotional load — even if they can’t fully understand what you’re going through.
- They can offer emotional and practical support — whether it’s listening when you need to talk, checking in on you, or even accompanying you to appointments, simply knowing you have people who care can be reassuring.
- It’s okay to feel hesitant about celebrating — whether it be out of fear, or for self-protection, this is a common experience, but sharing your pregnancy with loved ones can be a way of embracing hope while still honouring your past.
- It helps others understand your needs — not everyone will instinctively know how to support you. By opening up, you can help set expectations and let people know what’s helpful (and what isn’t).
- Connecting with others can bring comfort and reassurance — pregnancy after loss can feel isolating, but you may be surprised to find that others, perhaps even people close to you, have gone through similar experiences.
Communities of support
Pregnancy after a previous loss is far more common than many people realise, but that doesn’t make it any less difficult. It can leave behind not just grief, but also fear, uncertainty and unanswered questions — so however you are feeling right now is valid.
It’s important to surround yourself with people you trust to help support you. If you find it hard to talk about with family and friends, or simply need to connect with people
who truly understand how you feel, a support group or online community can provide a safe space to share and be heard.
- Connect online — you may find the Miscarriage Association Facebook groups or forum helpful, where you’ll also find a live chat service and email helpline,
or search stories to find women who are at a similar stage of pregnancy to you and read about their journey.
Visit Miscarriage Association
- Listen to others — you can also find a number of recorded audio conversations with women who have been on this journey.
Listen here
- Find the right support network for you — Tommy’s offer guidance on pregnancy after loss and emotional wellbeing for both you and your partner. Their resources also include personal stories and access to support networks, so you don’t have to go through this alone.
Visit Tommy’s
FAQS
Q
Can I push Prometrium in too far?
A
When using a soft vaginal capsule progesterone, insert it as far as it can comfortably go, like a tampon. It is possible to insert a vaginal progesterone capsule too far,
although it’s not typically considered dangerous as the body will naturally absorb the medication even if it goes a little deeper than intended. However, you should
avoid pushing it directly into the cervix. Always consult your doctor if you have any concerns about proper insertion technique.
Q
If I see it in my underwear, am I still getting the full dose?
A
Although we recommend that Prometrium is inserted deep into the vagina, it is normal for some of the contents of the capsule to leak out. Usually, enough of the
medication will have been absorbed to be effective.
Q
Do I need an applicator?
A
Prometrium does not require an applicator — simply insert the capsule into your vagina as far as it can comfortably go, like a tampon. Ask your doctor or
pharmacist if you have any questions about how to use vaginal progesterone.
Q
Can I still have sex after inserting Prometrium?
A
Q
Can I use Prometrium rectally?
A
The Package Leaflet (PIL) states in section 3 ‘How to use Prometrium’ that the capsules should be administered vaginally.
As the PIL does not provide any information regarding the administration of the vaginal capsules rectally, we cannot recommend the use of our products in any other manner. Any decision to do so would be the responsibility of your healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for specific guidance regarding your individual situation and any concerns you may have about taking this vaginally.
Q
What should I do if I take too much Prometrium?
A
If you have used too much Prometrium, you should talk to your doctor or go to a hospital. Take the medicine pack with you.
The following effects may happen: feeling dizzy or feeling tired.
Q
What do I do if I miss a dose of Prometrium?
A
If you forget to insert a dose, insert it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, you can skip the missed dose — do not take a
double dose to compensate for a forgotten dose.
Always talk to your doctor, pharmacist, nurse or mid-wife before stopping this medicine.
Q
What should I do if I suffer any side effects?
A
All medicines may cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. For some people side effects include:
• Itching or burning sensation
• Oily discharge from the vagina
• Short-term tiredness or dizziness within 1-3 hours of using the medicine
If you experience any side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist, nurse or midwife immediately.
Side effects should be reported. If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, nurse or midwife. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects via the website www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
References
- Electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC) (2024). Prometrium 400mg soft vaginal capsules
Support for you
Supporting you
through your pregnancy,
one step, one day,
one heartbeat at a time…
It takes a great deal of strength and resilience to continue trying for a baby after pregnancy loss, especially if it isn’t the first time it’s happened. If you’re currently facing a new pregnancy and balancing hope with anxiety, you are not alone.
Take it one day at a time
It’s okay to feel a mix of emotions — joy, fear, hope, and anxiety can all exist at once. Try to focus on the present rather than worrying too much about the future. Some people find it helpful to set small milestones rather than looking too far ahead.
Some people find it helpful to set small milestones
Understanding your body
When you become pregnant again, every symptom (or lack of symptoms) might make you feel on edge. While some spotting or cramping can be normal, it’s always okay to check-in with your healthcare professional for reassurance.
Knowing what to expect can help ease some of the uncertainty and give you a sense of control in the process, so if you have any concerns whatsoever, always call your midwife or Early Pregnancy Unit (EPU).
You may have been handed one of our support cards at your appointment with any contact numbers you need. If not, you can download one here and ask your healthcare team to fill it out for you at your next appointment. You’ll then have all the contact details you need in one place and can keep it with you when you’re out and about.
You may find yourself filled with excitement one moment and
overwhelming worry the next. This is completely natural.
Navigating the uncertainty
Trying again, particularly after 3 previous pregnancy losses, can bring both hope and fear. You may find yourself filled with excitement one moment and overwhelming worry the next. This is completely natural. Every pregnancy is different, but after loss,
it can be hard to trust your body and believe things will be okay.
It’s important to acknowledge these feelings rather than push them away. Finding ways to manage anxiety — whether through mindfulness, speaking to your doctor, or leaning on loved ones — can help you feel more in control.
Together, as a couple
You and your partner may process this journey differently but supporting each other can help you to feel more connected.
- Be patient with different coping styles — they may prefer to talk things through, while you might like to focus on the practical things. Respecting each other’s different ways of coping can help you navigate this journey together.
- Offer practical support — small gestures can make a big difference. Attending appointments together, helping with daily tasks, or simply checking in to see how each other are feeling can be reassuring.
- Celebrate small milestones together — marking moments like the first scan or reaching a certain week can help create positive memories in this pregnancy, while honouring the journey you’ve been on so far.
Opening up to family and friends
Sharing how you feel with family and friends during pregnancy after loss can be incredibly beneficial, even though it might feel daunting:
- Talking to loved ones can help lighten the emotional load — even if they can’t fully understand what you’re going through.
- They can offer emotional and practical support — whether it’s listening when you need to talk, checking in on you, or even accompanying you to appointments, simply knowing you have people who care can be reassuring.
- It’s okay to feel hesitant about celebrating — whether it be out of fear, or for self-protection, this is a common experience, but sharing your pregnancy with loved ones can be a way of embracing hope while still honouring your past.
- It helps others understand your needs — not everyone will instinctively know how to support you. By opening up, you can help set expectations and let people know what’s helpful (and what isn’t).
- Connecting with others can bring comfort and reassurance — pregnancy after loss can feel isolating, but you may be surprised to find that others, perhaps even people close to you, have gone through similar experiences.
Communities of support
Pregnancy after a previous loss is far more common than many people realise, but that doesn’t make it any less difficult. It can leave behind not just grief, but also fear, uncertainty and unanswered questions — so however you are feeling right now is valid.
It’s important to surround yourself with people you trust to help support you. If you find it hard to talk about with family and friends, or simply need to connect with people
who truly understand how you feel, a support group or online community can provide a safe space to share and be heard.
- Connect online — you may find the Miscarriage Association Facebook groups or forum helpful, where you’ll also find a live chat service and email helpline, or search stories to find women who are at a similar stage of pregnancy to you and read about their journey.
Visit Miscarriage Association
- Listen to others — you can also find a number of recorded audio conversations with women who have been on this journey.
Listen here
- Find the right support network for you — Tommy’s offer guidance on pregnancy after loss and emotional wellbeing for both you and your partner. Their resources also include personal stories and access to support networks, so you don’t have to go through this alone.
Visit Tommy’s
FAQS
Q
Can I push Prometrium in too far?
A
When using a soft vaginal capsule progesterone, insert it as far as it can comfortably go, like a tampon. It is possible to insert a vaginal progesterone capsule too far,
although it’s not typically considered dangerous as the body will naturally absorb the medication even if it goes a little deeper than intended. However, you should
avoid pushing it directly into the cervix. Always consult your doctor if you have any concerns about proper insertion technique.
Q
If I see it in my underwear, am I still getting the full dose?
A
Although we recommend that Prometrium is inserted deep into the vagina, it is normal for some of the contents of the capsule to leak out. Usually, enough of the
medication will have been absorbed to be effective.
Q
Do I need an applicator?
A
Prometrium does not require an applicator — simply insert the capsule into your vagina as far as it can comfortably go, like a tampon. Ask your doctor or
pharmacist if you have any questions about how to use vaginal progesterone.
Q
Can I still have sex after inserting Prometrium?
A
Yes, you can generally have sex while using a progesterone capsule that has been inserted vaginally, but it’s best to consult your doctor about the optimal timing and
potential considerations. To maximise the effectiveness of the medication, it’s generally recommended to insert the capsule and wait a short period before engaging
in sexual activity.
Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for specific guidance regarding your individual situation and any concerns you may have about using vaginal
progesterone and sexual activity.
Q
Can I use Prometrium rectally?
A
The Package Leaflet (PIL) states in section 3 ‘How to use Prometrium’ that the capsules should be administered vaginally.
As the PIL does not provide any information regarding the administration of the vaginal capsules rectally, we cannot recommend the use of our products in any
other manner. Any decision to do so would be the responsibility of your healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for specific
guidance regarding your individual situation and any concerns you may have about taking this vaginally.
Q
What should I do if I take too much Prometrium?
A
If you have used too much Prometrium, you should talk to your doctor or go to a hospital. Take the medicine pack with you.
The following effects may happen: feeling dizzy or feeling tired.
Q
What do I do if I miss a dose of Prometrium?
A
If you forget to insert a dose, insert it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, you can skip the missed dose — do not take a
double dose to compensate for a forgotten dose.
Always talk to your doctor, pharmacist, nurse or mid-wife before stopping this medicine.
Q
What should I do if I suffer any side effects?
A
All medicines may cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. For some people side effects include:
• Itching or burning sensation
• Oily discharge from the vagina
• Short-term tiredness or dizziness within 1-3 hours of using the medicine
If you experience any side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist, nurse or midwife immediately.
Side effects should be reported. If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, nurse or midwife. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects via the website www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
References
- Electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC) (2024). Prometrium 400mg soft vaginal capsules
This website has been developed by Besins Healthcare (UK) Ltd. Besins Healthcare is a pharmaceutical company specialising in the development of innovative drugs for the well-being of men and women throughout their life. +44 203 862 0920 | information@besins-healthcare.com
Copyright © 2025 Besins Healthcare. All Rights Reserved. Registered office Lion Court, 25 Proctor Street, Holborn, London, WC1V 6NY, UK.
MAT-PROMO-PTM-0020. April 2025.