progestational /prō′jestā″shənəl/ [Gk, pro + L, gestare, to bear] , pertaining to a drug with effects similar to those of progesterone, the hormone produced by the corpus luteum and adrenal cortex during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle that prepares the uterus for reception of the fertilized ovum. Natural and synthetic preparations of progesterone and its derivative medroxyprogesterone acetate are used in the treatment of secondary amenorrhea and abnormal uterine bleeding. Progestational compounds, such as norethindrone and norgestrel, are constituents of oral contraceptives. The use of progestins to prevent habitual or threatened abortion is no longer recommended.
