The saliva sample is sent back to the lab through regular mail. The level can usually be done in 7-10 working days. It can test for hormone deficiencies. It will confirm that the hormones that you are taking are being absorbed. Oral Progesterone versus Skin Cream Progesterone Progesterone taken orally is absorbed by the intestines.
Blood flows from the intestines and directly goes to the liver through the portal vein system.
It does not go directly to the body. In contrast, progesterone applied topically to the skin goes directly into the body, and resides in the oily portion of the blood, the chylomicrons and the red blood cell membranes. Little is metabolized by the liver. The pharmaceutical companies use both methods of administration. You can look in any PDR, Physician's Desk Reference, and find estrogen pills and estrogen skin patches.