Progestogen is a class of natural or synthetic steroid hormones that bind to and activate the progesterone receptors (PR) . Progesterone is the major and most important progestogen in the body. Progestogens are named for their function in maintaining pregnancy, although they are also present at other phases of the menstrual cycle. Here are some key points about progestogens:

• Progestogens are one of three types of sex hormones, the others being estrogens like estradiol and androgens/anabolic steroids like testosterone.
• Progestins are synthetic progestogens and are used in medicine.
• Progestins are used as medications in managing a variety of conditions, including contraception and postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT), among others.
• Progestogens are used widely for contraception, as they provide an alternative form of hormonal contraception for patients deemed unsuitable for combined hormonal contraception (CHC) .
• Progestins are also used in the treatment and management of a variety of other conditions, such as menstrual disorders and symptoms of menopause.

Progestogens are synthetic forms of progesterone, which is secreted by the ovary as part of the menstrual cycle. Progestins act on the progesterone receptor and have their own specific effects and are grouped based on generational class or their structural derivation.