The Endometrin Shortage: Where Things Stand in 2026

If you've been prescribed Endometrin for your IVF cycle and heard about shortage issues, you probably have a lot of questions. How bad is it? Is it getting better? What should I do?

Here's the full picture of the Endometrin shortage as of early 2026 — including what caused it, where things stand now, and what you can do to make sure you get the Progesterone support you need.

Is Endometrin Still in Shortage?

The worst of the Endometrin shortage appears to be over, but availability is not yet back to 100% normal at every pharmacy. Here's the timeline:

• Late 2023: Ferring Pharmaceuticals voluntarily recalled Endometrin after detecting Burkholderia bacteria in four unreleased batches during quality control testing. No contaminated product reached patients.
• Early 2024: Production remained suspended while Ferring and their contract manufacturer investigated the root cause and implemented corrective measures. ASHP officially listed Progesterone vaginal inserts as being in shortage.
• Mid-to-late 2024: Production gradually resumed and supply began flowing back to pharmacies and specialty distributors.
• September 2025: Xiromed launched the first FDA-approved generic Progesterone vaginal insert (100 mg), adding a second manufacturer to the market.
• Early 2026: Supply has significantly improved. Most specialty pharmacies report consistent availability of either brand-name Endometrin or the generic equivalent. However, some retail pharmacies and certain regions may still experience occasional stock gaps.

Why Has Endometrin Been Hard to Find?

Several factors combined to create and prolong the shortage:

• Single-source manufacturing: Until the generic launched, Ferring was the only manufacturer. One recall shut down the entire supply.
• Lengthy investigation: The bacterial contamination required deeper investigation than initially planned, extending the production pause beyond original estimates.
• Rising IVF demand: Fertility treatments have been increasing year over year, creating more demand for luteal phase support medications.
• Specialty distribution: Endometrin is primarily available through specialty pharmacies, so even when supply exists, it's not at every corner drugstore.

For a deeper dive into these factors, see our post on why Endometrin is so hard to find.

How Much Does Endometrin Cost in 2026?

The cost of Endometrin depends on whether you're paying cash, using insurance, or using a coupon card:

• Brand-name Endometrin: The average retail cash price is approximately $327-$393 for a box of 21 inserts (about one week of supply at three times daily dosing).
• With a coupon card: Services like GoodRx and SingleCare can bring the price down to around $91-$113 for 21 inserts.
• Generic Progesterone vaginal insert: The Xiromed generic may be available at a lower price point. Check with your pharmacy for current pricing.
• With insurance: Many commercial plans cover Endometrin as part of fertility treatment, though prior authorization may be required. Copays vary widely.
• Ferring savings programs: The Ferring h.e.a.r.t.+ Savings Card offers up to $30 in savings every two weeks for eligible patients.

For detailed strategies on reducing your cost, check out our guide to saving money on Endometrin.

Are There New Options Available?

Yes — the biggest development is the generic Progesterone vaginal insert by Xiromed, which launched in September 2025. This is the first FDA-approved generic equivalent to Endometrin and contains the same 100 mg of micronized Progesterone in the same vaginal insert format.

The availability of a generic option is significant for two reasons:

1. Better supply: Having two manufacturers (Ferring and Xiromed) means less risk of shortage going forward.
2. Lower cost: Generic medications typically cost less than brand-name products, which can help reduce out-of-pocket costs for patients paying cash.

Other alternatives that have always been available include Crinone, Prometrium, and Progesterone in oil injections.

How to Find Endometrin in Stock

If you need Endometrin now, here are the most effective steps:

1. Search on Medfinder to check real-time availability at pharmacies near you.
2. Contact specialty fertility pharmacies like Freedom Fertility, Encompass, Village Fertility, or Alto Pharmacy.
3. Ask your fertility clinic — they often have relationships with distributors and may dispense medications in-house.
4. Request the generic — ask your pharmacist about the Xiromed generic Progesterone vaginal insert.
5. Plan ahead — have your prescription sent early to give the pharmacy time to order if needed.

For more detailed tips, read our guide to finding Endometrin in stock.

Final Thoughts

The Endometrin shortage that began in late 2023 has improved significantly, especially with the arrival of a generic version in late 2025. While pockets of limited availability may persist in some areas, patients in 2026 have more options than they did a year ago.

Stay proactive: use tools like Medfinder to track availability, ask about the generic, and work closely with your fertility clinic to ensure you have the Progesterone support you need for a successful cycle.