Progesterone treatment while pregnant

by Maria G. Guevara
(Brownsville, Texas)

My doctor prescribed progesterone suppositories and I'm not sure I should continue to take them. I have read about the side effects and precautions and it says pregnant women should not take it. What should I do?

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Progesterone treatment while pregnant

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Jul 19, 2008
 Progesterone treatment while pregnant
by: Wray

Hi Maria Suppositories are an excellent means of getting progesterone into the body. And to date I have not found any adverse side affects from using progesterone. If any occur when first starting its use this is due to 'oestrogen dominance'. See here for details:

http://www.progesteronetherapy.com/estrogen-dominance.html

Pregnant women are often given progesterone suppositories to prevent a miscarriage. It's often given when a woman has IVF treatment, to ensure the foetus stays in place. Hope this reassures you Take care. Wray
Oct 07, 2008
 Progesterone
by: Vive

My Dr. prescribed this medication but it came with no instructions, how do I insert this product?
Oct 09, 2008
 Progesterone treatment while pregnant
by: Wray

Hi Vive The easiest way is to use your fingers. If you find the suppository too dry, adding some oil, yoghurt or butter to the outside is effective. It's much easier to use as a pessary, inserting it into your vagina. It will reach the uterus where it's needed much quicker. If you find this unpleasant, then an alternative would be to use the cream. Hope this helps, take care Wray
Oct 23, 2008
 Progesterone side effects?
by: Vicky

I've finished my medication and I'm just concerned because my stomach was really bloated and my breasts were very tender and now I'm done and I was just wondering if that was normal?

I woke up yesterday and my stomach was not as bloated and my breasts are not hurting as much. Could it be that these are the side effects progesterone gives you? Please advise I'm really worried. Thank you.
Oct 27, 2008
 Progesterone treatment while pregnant
by: Wray

Hi Vicky The side affects you experienced were due to oestrogen dominance. Progesterone activates the oestrogen receptor sites, which then causes oestrogen to become the dominant hormone initially. You didn't use the progesterone for long enough, as it does take time to settle down, but I can assure you it does.

Now that you're not using the progesterone, the oestrogen has calmed down hence the symptoms are going. We do have a web page on oestrogen dominance you might like to look at, it explains everything. Take care Wray
Jan 12, 2009
 Progestrone and my past history
by: Anonymous

I've always been told by doctors that I should not take hormones because I have had cancer when I was younger. Now I am pregnant and my doctor said that my progestrone levels are on the low side... he is going to give me some cream. Should I be concerned?
Jan 14, 2009
 Progesterone treatment while pregnant
by: wray

There is no need to be concerned. They should have made it clear the hormone to avoid is oestrogen. Progesterone is vital for a successful pregnancy, when we can make up to 420mg/day, compared to the 20-40mg during our monthly cycle.

If progesterone caused cancer, every pregnant woman on this planet would have it! We do have a web page on cancer you might like to look at it:

http://www.progesteronetherapy.com/faq-cancer.html

We also have one on pregnancy too:

http://www.progesteronetherapy.com/faq-conception.html

Take care Wray
Sep 30, 2009
 Synthetic v. Plant based Progesterone
by: Anonymous

You should be highly aware that many doctors do not know that there is a difference between synthetic progesterone sold by pharmaceutical companies under different brand names which are known to cause cancer and other problems in women while plant based (usually made from soy or yam) progesterone which is bio-identical--that plant based progesterone has the same molecular structure as the human body and does not cause the same side effects as synthesized progesterone. Bio-identical progesterone is safe in prescribed doses. Make sure your doctor prescribes bio-identical plant based progesterone. Also, you must have sufficient levels of progesterone in your body to support the first trimester of pregnancy.

Oct 16, 2010
 I am taking Progesterone I am 6 weeks
by: Anonymous

I have been taking Progesterone for three days and this morning I had some light spotting but not sure if I should worry. I had my tubes tied in 1999 and have been pregnant three times in the past six years. In 2006 I had a ruptured tube that was removed and the other tube was retied. As of today I am on my third pregnancy as I mentioned and I would like to keep my baby. I am confused and don't really understand what's going on with my body from one day to the next. My HCG levels are increasing not as much as my doctor would like and my progesterone levels are low but not dangerously low. I just need some insight some peace of mind. I have had two ultra sounds but it was too soon to tell it does not appear to be an ectopic pregnancy but again it still may be to soon to tell. I have searched the internet for similar situation but I have not found anything. Please advise!
Oct 20, 2010
 I am taking Progesterone I am 6 weeks
by: Wray

Hi there You say you have been taking progesterone. If this means you have been given oral progesterone it's not the best delivery system. Please see our page on Progesterone application methods. And the dose, how much were you told to take, as this has a bearing on it too. I recommend between 100-200mg/day, dependant on symptoms. It's essential to use a good delivery system. Bleeding of any kind means progesterone levels have dropped. In your case it appears only a little, as you say it's slight spotting. You should have been given the progesterone before you fell pregnant, as initially it stimulates oestrogen. This means oestrogen has risen, which in turn would suppress progesterone, hence the spotting. It's essential to make progesterone the dominant hormone, so I suggest you use about 200mg/day. hCG or human chorionic gonadotrophin is a hormone produced by the developing embryo after conception. Once the embryo has implanted a specialised part of the placenta takes over production. The role of hCG is to prevent the corpus luteum from disintegration. The corpus luteum is critical for the production of progesterone for the first 8 weeks, until the placenta takes over production. Please note that hCG starts dropping after 13 to 16 weeks gestational age as the corpus luteum is no longer needed. So if your hCG levels are still low, it means the corpus luteum is not producing enough progesterone. In which case it's vital you use supplementary progesterone. But this must be with a good delivery system, and a high enough amount. Please see our page on Pregnancy. Take care Wray
Oct 25, 2010
 Progesterone in later pregnancy
by: Anonymous

I am 11 weeks pregnant and have insufficient grandular tissue leading me to not be able to breast feed without supplementing with formula. There is a study that showed that taking progesterone suppositories, 100mg a day, can help with gradular tissue development. My question is if taking progesterone this late in pregancy can somehow negatively affect the baby. How far into pregnancy can I take it? Anyone out there tried this for the same reason? Thanks, Karen.
Oct 28, 2010
 Progesterone Therapy
by: Anonymous

I recently had a cystectomy and my right ovary removed. My OBGYN has prescribed me progesterone treatment to use to keep me from miscarrage. When taking this treatment, I have severe nausea, tenderness and discomfort at my incision site where they removed the cyst/ovary, and headaches. When I experience these symptoms, I stop taking the treatment for 2-3 days at a time to regain my wellness and when I start to feel better, I try to continue with the treatment. Will this affect my child as to I am only between 4 to 6 weeks pregnant. I have not experienced any vaginal bleeding at all. I dont want to loose my child and I truly do not want my baby to come in this world with any birth defects or retardation. What should I do. Should I be worried that if I dont follow the treatment as prescribed my child while have birth defects or some form of mental retardation. Please help. -Concerned Mother
Oct 29, 2010
 Progesterone in later pregnancy
by: Wray

Hi Karen Progesterone can be used at any time during pregnancy. You are now in the 1st trimester and your ovaries will be making between 11.2 - 90.0 ng/ml or 35.6 - 286.2 nmol/L. By using a cream or suppository you will merely be supplementing what you are already making. By the 2nd trimester, when the placenta takes over production of progesterone, you will be making between 25.6 - 89.4 ng/ml or 81.4 - 284.29 nmol/L. By the 3rd trimester, your level will have increased to 48.4 - 425 ng/ml or 153.9 - 1351.5 nmol/L. Please see Medline Progesterone. I'm not sure if you mean granular or glandular tissue, so I'm assuming glandular. I would like to see the paper you mention, as I have never found a paper showing progesterone increases tissue in the breast. Oestrogen plays a major role in promoting cell proliferation, while progesterone influences its differentiation. Maybe this differentiation is what the paper was referring to. Please see here, here and here. Progesterone is vital for a successful pregnancy, insufficient is often a cause of miscarriages. Using supplemental progesterone will not affect the baby negatively. Whereas progestins do affect it negatively. For more info on progesterone use during pregnancy please see our page on Pregnancy. Take care Wray
Oct 30, 2010
 Progesterone Therapy
by: Wray

Hi there Stopping and starting progesterone while pregnant can cause a miscarriage. It's the drop in progesterone which causes them, in fact it's the most common reason for a miscarriage. It's such a pity you were not given progesterone before you fell pregnant. It's essential to do this, to prevent Oestrogen Dominance which is what you are experiencing now. It's evident you had a high level of oestrogen prior to pregnancy, as oestrogen stimulates cysts to grow. In fact progesterone, by suppressing excess oestrogen, will cause the cyst to be reabsorbed. There was no need for the op. Many women experience nausea or 'morning sickness' in the early weeks of pregnancy, it's also caused by excess oestrogen. Dr Dalton treated many thousands of women with progesterone if they had nausea. The worse it is the more progesterone is needed. I've found if nausea is bad and has been going on for some time, at least 330mg/day progesterone is needed to prevent it. You don't say if you have been given oral progesterone or suppositories. If oral it's not the best delivery system, please see our page on Progesterone application methods.
I suggest you use an efficient absorption system, ie injections, suppositories or a cream, and use at least 200mg/day. If you use a cream you can rub it directly on the incision point, it's an excellent anti-inflammatory. If you don't use the progesterone, you baby won't be retarded or have birth defects, as you are making progesterone yourself. Obviously your obgyn was giving it to you as a precaution. But if you want to continue with it, you must use a high amount to prevent the nausea. For more info please see our page on How to use progesterone. We also have a page on Pregnancy. Please read through this, it gives all the info you need on how to use it while pregnant. And please read this page here. Take care Wray
Nov 05, 2010
 i used it
by: Anonymous

when i first got pregnant my doctor had me to use it and i miscarriage the next week so i don't think it's safe at all
Nov 09, 2010
 i used it
by: Wray

Hi there I think your doctor probably gave it to you far too late in your pregnancy. This is often the case, it should be started before you fall pregnant. It's not possible for progesterone not to be safe, we make large quantities when pregnant. In fact without progesterone no woman would carry a child to term. And low levels or a drop while pregnant causes a miscarriage, which undoubtedly happened to you. We do have a page on Pregnancy you might like to look at. Take care Wray
Nov 13, 2010
 Should I continue
by: Jennifer

I have been taking compounded progesterone pills 50mg for 10 months due to estrogen dominance. I have not seen my dr since then and we have moved. I just found out I am pregnant after 4 years of trying. I was supposed to take the progesterone on days 14-28 so I stopped when I was supposed to get my period. Should I start again? Will it cause a problem if I do or don't? I am planning to call my old dr, but we just got phone and internet up and now have to wait till next week. Plus he doesn't work everyday. Any help someone can give would be greatly appreciated.
Nov 15, 2010
 Should I continue
by: Wray

Hi Jennifer It's lucky the dose of progesterone was so low, because stopping it as you did while pregnant can cause a miscarriage. Oral progesterone is mostly destroyed by the gut and liver, so only about 80-90% is getting into the blood stream. Which means the 50mg/day you were taking amounted to no more than 4mg progesterone. For more info please see the page on Progesterone application methods. If you've had miscarriages in the past, then it would be advisable to start again. But if not, there should be no reason to, as initially the corpus luteum, followed by the placenta at 3-4 months, make sufficient progesterone for the entire pregnancy. Just watch out for signs that progesterone is dropping, ie spotting, bleeding, nausea (this is not normal!), headaches and water retention. If any signs of these occur start using the progesterone again. But it's best in a form which is absorbed well, injections, suppositories or a cream. More info on the link I've given above. We do have a page on Pregnancy, please look through it, as it gives all the info you need on using progesterone. You might like to see these two sites too, here and here. Take care Wray
Nov 24, 2010
 Do side effectscontinue to increase from days 14 - 28?
by: Sydneygirl

Dear Wray, I have been on Crinone twice daily since Nov 15. I had my embryo transfer on Nov 17. I had the standard tiredness, bloating, breast enlargement start in the first 3 - 4 days. I had my cycle day 21 blood test on Nov 22 for progesterone and the results were "fantastic." I wish I had asked for the levels. Since then, my bloating, weight gain has increased. Does the Crinone keep making your levels of progesterone increase or does it plateau at some stage? Many thanks.
Dec 01, 2010
 Headaches and progestrone treatment while 15 wks pregnant?
by: Anonymous

So I am amost 16 weeks pregnant. At 11wks I started getting fierce frontal Region headaches. Sometimes they start at 8am other times the afternoon. Always. Every weekday. Weekends: they are very mild to none at all. They still continue, now getting more intense and unbearable. I drink a gallon of water a day, eat well, and take prenatals...don't drink, smoke or do drugs. My doctor is prescribing progestrone as a potential treatment...does this sound right? Is progesterone a way to treat pregnancy headaches? What physical side effects to my body could this cause?
Dec 05, 2010
 Do side effects continue to increase from days 14 - 28?
by: Wray

Hi Sydneygirl Crinone will increase your level. But more significantly, your own production of progesterone will increase as pregnancy progresses. Look at the reference ranges below.....
Pregnancy (serum) 1st trimester 11.2 - 90.0 ng/ml or 35.6 - 286.2 nmol/L, 2nd trimester 25.6 - 89.4 ng/ml or 81.4 - 284.29 nmol/L, 3rd trimester 48.4 - 425 ng/ml or 153.9 - 1351.5 nmol/L Medline Progesterone So by the 3rd trimester you should be making over 400 ng/ml or 1351.5 nmol/L per day. It's a pity they didn't start you earlier on the progesterone, as you are going through the Oestrogen Dominance phase now, read this page for more info on it. I'm pleased you've been given vaginal progesterone, often oral is given which is the least effective delivery system, see this page on here. How much progesterone you are getting? Crinone contains either 45 mg or 90 mg per dose, I hope it's the 90mg. I'm also pleased you're using it twice daily, as levels of progesterone drop after about 13hrs. I'm not sure how long they want you to use it for, often 3-4 months is the cut off time. Normally they tell you to just stop it, please don't follow this advice. Going cold turkey off progesterone is not a good thing, it's far better to reduce the amount slowly over a month. It is safe to use it throughout pregnancy too. Once you've stopped please watch for tell tale signs of levels dropping, ie nausea, headache, BP rising, water retention. Just start using it again if this should occur. We do have a page on Pregnancy, please read through it. There are three nutrients which are of paramount importance in pregnancy, please consider taking them. They are Vitamin D, see here, here and here. Taurine, see here, here and here. And omega 3, see here. please see this video here. Take care Wray
Dec 06, 2010
 Headaches and progestrone treatment while 15 wks pregnant?
by: Wray

Hi there I'm pleased your doctor is giving you progesterone and not drugs, as it can help migraines/headaches, see here, here and here. At 16 weeks the placenta is normally making sufficient progesterone to maintain the pregnancy, see......
Medline Progesterone (serum)
1st trimester 11.2 - 90.0 ng/ml or 35.6 - 286.2 nmol/L
2nd trimester 25.6 - 89.4 ng/ml or 81.4 - 284.3 nmol/L
3rd trimester 48.4 - 425 ng/ml or 153.9 - 1351.5 nmol/L
It could be your level is not high enough, hence the headaches. They seem to be related to stress, as you say they occur during the week, but not at weekends. Are you still working, can you stop? Stress drops progesterone, have they checked your levels? Please get them to do so if not, and a vitamin D test too. A lack of vitamin D reduces the benefits of progesterone. Vitamin D is vital to both the mother and the developing child, see the Vitamin D council website for more info. And here and here. We do have a page on Pregnancy, please read through it for more info. You might like to see this video on Vitamin D: Pregnancy and Lactation Another vital nutrient is taurine, see here, here and here. Plus omega 3, see here. Take care Wray
Jan 20, 2011
 scared to stop progesterone
by: Anonymous

I had a frozen embryo transfer nov 2. I am now pregnant with twins. I just turned 14 weeks today. I have been on 200 cc of progesterone in oil shots and 4mg of estrogen daily since before the transfer. My ob says to stop the meds at 14 weeks because the placenta should be making the hormones now. I asked about follow up bloodwork and he said not unless i begin to spot or cramp. I am scared to come off of the shots. I have had 3 losses already and i am afraid. Is it ok to quite the meds cold turkey as my dr says at this point and time. I have enough meds to take through 14 weeks 3 days and am considering taking them till then then stopping. Is it ok to do this? What side effects will i experience if any and is it safe to stop them now? Also would it be better to taper off of the meds instead of cold turkey? Thanks
Jan 21, 2011
 scared to stop progesterone
by: Wray

Hi there I'm surprised you've been given oestrogen too, and which kind? Oestriol is the pregnancy oestrogen, whereas oestradiol is the predominant oestrogen when not pregnant. It's usually low in pregnancy. It's a pity you weren't given progesterone suppositories/pessaries, injections are painful. Progesterone cream is as affective too. I never recommend going cold turkey on any nutrient, drug or hormone. It's always safer and kinder to the body to taper off slowly. One of the causes of miscarriages is a drop in progesterone levels. Although you are now at 14 weeks and the placenta should be making sufficient progesterone, I don't think it's worth the risk. Many women I've helped with recurrent miscarriages have actually continued using the progesterone throughout their pregnancy, it's safe to do so. We do have a page on Pregnancy, please read through this to get a better idea of how to taper off. Take care Wray
Feb 07, 2011
 *****Progesterone while pregnant*****
by: Private

***The doctor prescribed a progesterone vaginal to pregnant woman who has a high risk of giving birth premature. This medicine will prevent of your uterus for having a contractions and making your uterus to smooth out so your cervix will not open up also this medicine has no side effects whatsoever. Most of the woman who take this medication really helps them from giving birth full time and have a healthy baby. As for myself i was 23 weeks pregnant with twin girls when they found out that my cervix was open 2cm, and I taking progesterone every night really helps me not to contract at all and I'm 25 weeks pregnant right now and everything is doing good and it really helps. If the doctor couldnt do stitches to your cervix because your far behind your pregnancy they suggest you to take progesterone to hold on a full term pregnancy. The doctor doesnt prescribed any medicine if they know it not gon work, so if your scared taking it, so no make sense you gon put all this comments and making other pregnant woman to decide for you. YOU SHOULD TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR...
Feb 24, 2011
 *****Progesterone while pregnant*****
by: Wray

Hi there I'm pleased your doctor has given you progesterone. Although oral progesterone is not the best Delivery system. It should also be used twice a day minimum, as levels drop after about 13hrs. The best systems are injections, suppositories or creams. We do have a page on Pregnancy you might like to read. Take care Wray
Mar 24, 2011
 Progestrone Suppository
by: Laksur

Hi

I have had 2 miscarriages (1st one at 13 weeks and second at 5th week) and after I got pregnant again, my doctor prescribed me progestrone suppository 3 times a day from 4th week to 10th week. I want to know if the baby has any genetic/ birth defect and the natural process of miscarriage is stopped by taking progesterone, what are the chances of such defects being carried forward and not being discovered before birth?

thanks
laksur
Mar 24, 2011
 Progestrone Suppository
by: Laksur

Hi

I have had 2 miscarriages before after having a healthy baby boy. The first miscarriage was at 13 weeks and the second at 5 wks. After I became pregnant again my doctor prescribed progesterone suppository 3 times a day from 4 wk to 10th week. I would like to know if the baby has any birth defect then by taking progesterone then the natural process of miscarriage will be stopped and what are the chances of such defects being discovered later or after birth?
Mar 28, 2011
 2 miscarriages
by: Anonymous

Hello, I had two miscarriages, my doctor gave me the progesterone pill 200mg, and three days later i miscarried. I'm pregnant again (4 months after my lasdt miscarriage) only about 4 weeks and I started taken the progesterone and i also take baby aspirin, to help blood flow. Do u think my chances are better, I really want this baby.
Apr 20, 2011
 Progestrone Suppository
by: Wray

Hi Laksur You do have a point, but I can't answer you. Maybe your doctor can? He suggested you use the progesterone, he's given you a very good amount too. I can only imagine he had no worries about a genetic defect, and that low progesterone was your problem. Please don't just stop the progesterone, please decrease the amount slowly. We do have info about this on our Pregnancy page. Take care Wray
Apr 20, 2011
 2 miscarriages
by: Wray

Hi there I don't know if your chances are better, no one can tell you that. But your doctor should have given you the progesterone before you fell pregnant. One possible reason for the previous miscarriage was Oestrogen Dominance. When first using progesterone or increasing the amount, it initially stimulates oestrogen. This is the reason I suggest women use the progesterone before Pregnancy. Please look through this page we have, as it gives you info on how to use it while pregnant. Take care Wray
May 27, 2011
 Graditude
by: Anonymous

I just wanted to say, "Thank You, Wray"
I came with a question and you have supplied a multitude of answers and links and my mind is now set at ease about being given Progesterone to prevent miscarriage. My doctor told me all the same information but it has been comforting, none the less, to be given so much information to read myself. Much appreciated. =) ~!E
Jun 01, 2011
 Progesterone
by: Cait

Hi, I'm hoping you can help. I had a miscarriage at around 7-8 weeks in late November 2011. I had to have a D & C. We've been trying to get pregnant again since then with no luck. After charting my temps, I noticed that my cycles are short with a short luteal phase lasting 6-10 days. My doctor prescribed the Progesterone from 2 days after ovulation for 14 days. It didn't work this cycle, I am not pregnant, but it did lengthen out my cycle. Is this treatment successful? How long should I expect before it works?? P.S. I already have a baby girl 2 1/2 years old, so we know everything works. :)
Aug 02, 2011
 Treatment left out
by: Anon_L

Hi, I'm on a suppository Progesterone treatment. It comes in little refrigerated capsules. I accidentally left out the kit for about 5 hours. I quickly put it back in the fridge. Is it still good? Do I have to order more?
Aug 14, 2011
 IUI and Progesterone suppositories
by: Anonymous

I am hoping you can help me with my question on progesterone. I currently have completed a 3rd cycle of IUI. I was asked to test 16 days post insemination - today and have tested positive for pregnancy. Yippie. On cycle #2, they did a progesterone test on day 21 and found that I had low progesterone and put me on supposotiries but 2nd cycle still failed. This cycle I have been on suppositories since insemintation. Today I went back to the clinic to ask if I should continue taking them - and they were confused. They have given me a 2 wk supply and want to wait till I have my scan (7th week) - They did not talk about gradually decreasing it... This sounds a little bit crazy to me.

What do you advise? Is there any issue with having too much progesterone in the body? I am on CYCLOGEST at present.
Sep 05, 2011
 missing dose
by: Anonymous

Hello- I am 7weeks, 5days pregnant and on 100mgs of progesterone twice a day. This morning I went to get my prescription and the pharmacy which advertised they would be open 9am-1pm on Monday holidays was closed! I can't get my medicine anywhere today and I am scared to death I'm going to miscarry from the drop. Any advice? They should be open tomorrow, and probably love my frantic message!
Sep 12, 2011
 Progesterone effect on fetal tooth developement
by: Anonymous

I have had 6 pregnancies and with 2 of them used IM progesterone / P-17. All my other children have had normal tooth development and progression, but the 2 children that I received progesterone therapy with have malformed enamel and aggressive tooth decay. All other factors are the same. I breast fed all, same water source, same diet same oral hygiene habits... etc. What do you think?
Sep 13, 2011
 Bleeding whilst taking progesterone pessaries
by: Anonymous

I have just completed my third cycle with fresh donor embryos. The cycle was essentially artificial as ovulation had been suppressed. On this cycle I was prescribed progesterone pessaries (200mg)twice daily instead of Crinone twice daily, and was also taking Progynova (Oestradiol Val 2mg)3 x daily. On Day 11 of the cycle I started to bleed and had a blood test the following day on Day 12. Blood progesterone levels were 24 and considered within normal range so no additional progesterone was prescribed. I continued with the progesterone 2 x daily until day 17 blood test despite ongoing bleeding. Blood test on day 17 showed progesterone level of 13.
Can you suggest why progesterone levels would have been falling whilst taking the medications? Is there a maximum of progesterone that can be absorbed by the body via supplementation? Do some women require higher levels of progesterone than average for implantation?
Thanks
Sep 25, 2011
 taking progesterone supp
by: Anonymous

I am 5 weeks preg, my ob put me on progesterone supp 200 mg 3x day... started spotting brown a couple days ago now has turned to mixed brown and red blood. I know it is not normal but can everything still be ok. I have had two prior miscarriages an i passed large clot..this time there has been no clotting just brownish/redish blood...please help
Sep 26, 2011
 Why progesterone if i've had two healthy pregnancies?
by: cam

I am early in my pregnancy that my doctor hasn't told me how far, just early he says. I started to have a period bleed while pregnant. This morning He has put me on a progesterone suppository treatment. I have had two prior pregnancies which were healthy with no problems. Now, in this third one he says my pregnancy hormone level is low. Is it safe for me to use this suppository or will it prolong my pregnancy and end in miscarriage and does low progesterone mean a baby with abnormalities?
Sep 27, 2011
 Progestrone Levels - 11 weeks
by: Anonymous

Hi Wray, Via ivf i'm 11 weeks pregnant. My last blooks at 10 weeks showed P4 at 80. Dr now wants me to cut down on crinone gel from 2 day to one a day ..... is this safe at 80?

Also all my hormone levels dropped from 8 weeks to 10 weeks - dr says this is normal ??
Oct 19, 2011
 IM so confused
by: Bellasmommy28

Hi, im 9 weeks pregnant and i just started my 200 Mg progesterone Vag. Supporties once daily, I also have been told to start taking Vit D-3 2000 once a day, Plus i have an incompete cervix, i would like to know what is the Progesterone for and will this effect my IC?
Oct 26, 2011
 Peach colored discharge
by: CONCERNED

Hi. I am 5 weeks pregnant and I have been on Crinone for a couple of weeks now. I noticed today that I have light pink, peachy, or salmon color discharge today, they are cottage cheese like in consistency. Before I had the same cottage cheese like discharge but it was white/off white. Now I am concerned since there is some color to it. I dont have any bleeding though but at times have light cramping. Is the peachy, cottage cheese like discharge normal while on Crinone?
Oct 27, 2011
 Graditude
by: Wray

Hi E I'm so sorry I missed your post, in fact I seem to have missed everyone else's too! I do hope the pregnancy is progressing well, you might in fact have had the baby. Do let me know how you are. And I'm delighted I was able to reassure you, but don't loose that doctor, he's rare! Take care Wray
Oct 27, 2011
 Progesterone
by: Wray

Hi Cait Another apology to you too, I'm so sorry I missed your query, now 4 months late. Needless to say I will answer you. Your luteal phase is far too short, and it's best to use the progesterone from ovulation, rather than two days after. The corpus luteum begins making progesterone immediately after ovulation. I would have to know how much progesterone he gave you, but it appears sufficient as it lengthened your cycle. I recommend 100-200mg/day, more if need be. You say the progesterone 'didn't work' as you're not pregnant. But progesterone won't make you pregnant, only if you ovulate can you fall pregnant. Do you know if you ovulated? Progesterone does successfully lengthen a luteal phase, it also prevents miscarriages and pre-term births. You ask how long before it works, do you mean before you fall pregnant? If so, then this will only occur if you ovulate. You might like to read our page on Pregnancy as it explains how to use progesterone, and the role it plays in pregnancy. It might be an idea to get a mini-microscope to check for ovulation. You'll find more about this on the pregnancy page. Take care Wray
Oct 27, 2011
 Treatment left out
by: Wray

Hi there Late in replying again, I'm so sorry. Suppositories don't have to be kept in the fridge, unless they have no preservative, or they are likely to melt in the heat. But 5 hours will not harm the contents if there is no preservative. Take care Wray
Oct 27, 2011
 IUI and Progesterone suppositories
by: Wray

Hi there Another apology for a late reply, I'm so sorry about this. And far too late to give advice too. I do hope all has gone well, but would like to comment that I believe progesterone should be started before conception, to ensure there's sufficient. It doesn't surprise me you miscarried in cycle 2 if they only gave you progesterone on day 21. I'm amazed they only gave you two weeks supply this cycle, the first 3-4 months are the most critical in any pregnancy. The placenta does not start producing progesterone until week 8, and then very little to begin with. Often the corpus luteum is not producing sufficient during this time and a miscarriage occurs. I would always advise someone with recurrent miscarriages, or going through IVF, to use progesterone for at least 4 months, if not the entire pregnancy. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page. The body can make over 400ng/ml/day progesterone in the third trimester. So even using two by 200mg suppositories each day you still wouldn't be using too much. A sudden drop in progesterone can bring on the very problems or symptoms that it's trying to help. This is why I advice reducing the amount slowly. Interestingly the same mistake was made with patients under going IV transfusions of progesterone for TBI. The treatment was initially stopped suddenly, much as a drug is, and the patients regressed. They now reduce the amount slowly. Take care Wray
Oct 27, 2011
 missing dose
by: Wray

Hi there Many apologies for the very late reply, far too late to help you. I do hope you managed to get the progesterone, and nothing untoward occurred. Is it not possible to get more progesterone each time, so this can't happen again? I'm not sure why you're using progesterone, but if it's to prevent a miscarriage, the amount is fine, but is it oral? As this is the least effective Delivery system, as most of it gets destroyed by the gut and liver. injections, suppositories and creams are a better system. We do have more info on ourPregnancy page. Take care Wray
Oct 27, 2011
 Progesterone effect on fetal tooth developement
by: Wray

Hi there Apologies for the very late reply. There are two forms of P-17. It's normally referred to as 17OHP. 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) is a naturally occurring metabolite of progesterone. Whereas 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate, is a synthetic progestin also used to prevent miscarriages and pre-term births. Often the same term is used for both compounds. No adverse side affects have been reported with the use of 17OHP, which is produced primarily by the adrenal glands, and increases in the third trimester. But 17OHP-C I would not recommend, and there are safety concerns about the effect it has on the foetus. I would always favour the use of progesterone though, and let the body metabolise it naturally into 17OHP. There is no evidence to date of any adverse side effects to the foetus while using progesterone during pregnancy. Take care Wray
Oct 27, 2011
 Stopping Progesterone at 12 weeks
by: Athom

I am 10 weeks pregnant and on progesterone (vaginally) I was told to stop at 12 weeks. should I continue to be safe?
Oct 28, 2011
 Bleeding whilst taking progesterone pessaries
by: Wray

Hi there Many apologies for the late reply, over a month late, I'm so sorry. It's possible they changed the script as you weren't getting enough progesterone via the Crinone. This comes as either a 45mg or 90mg application, assuming you were using the 90mg twice a day you would be getting 180mg/day, now you're getting 400mg/day. The minimum amount should be 200mg/day, although I would have recommended more like the 400mg. Oestradiol valerate is usually given to encourage the lining to proliferate in the initially stages. But after this has occurred, progesterone stops the proliferation and causes the lining to become a secretory lining. If you're still taking the oestradiol, I would imagine this is causing the bleeding. MMP's are enzymes that break down protein. They play a role in the breakdown of endometrial tissues at the end of the menstrual cycle. If they are over active, as would be the case with excess oestrogen in the body, as oestrogen stimulates their production, the result is a pathological reaction. A high level of MMP's can lead to inflammation, spotting and/or excessive bleeding in the uterus. If a low level of progesterone is present, and a high level of oestrogen, the lining will continue to grow. With a high level of MMP's the lining will also continue to break down. Progesterone suppresses both MMP's and oestrogen. Did they check your oestrogen level? As excess oestrogen suppresses progesterone. As far as I'm aware, there doesn't appear to be a maximum level of progesterone. Dr Dalton gave 2400mg/day to her patients with post natal psychosis, TBI patients are given over 1200mg/day progesterone via IV transfusion. The amount of progesterone given to women for IVF, miscarriages or pre-term births varies greatly. Between 200-600mg/day is the norm, maybe given on the whim of the doctor, maybe because of a paper he's read. i would always err on the side of more rather than less, I've found low amounts, for whatever reason, do little good. I'm running out of space so will start a new comment below. Take care Wray
Oct 28, 2011
 Bleeding whilst taking progesterone pessaries
by: Wray

Hi there These are a few papers on IVF and progesterone, see here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here. We do have a page on Pregnancy which explains the role progesterone plays. Take care Wray
Oct 28, 2011
 taking progesterone supp
by: Wray

Hi there I seem to have missed so many posts on this page, I do apologise. You have certainly been given on an excellent amount of progesterone, which would normally stop any bleeding. I suspect you might be short of vitamin D, please have a test done. This nutrient is so vital for normal ovarian function, ovulation, conception, a successful pregnancy and for the growth of the foetus, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. vitamin d is such a vital nutrient, and a low level reduces the benefits of progesterone. For more info on testing etc see the For more info on testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml and not the 30ng/ml labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day. Although the latest research is suggesting 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Oct 28, 2011
 Why progesterone if i've had two healthy pregnancies?
by: Wray

Hi Cam I apologise for this late reply. Progesterone suppositories are safe, and used in many clinics to prevent miscarriages, preterm births and assisted reproductive techniques. Certainly preferable to the injections which are sometimes used. Progesterone will not prolong your pregnancy. Certain changes which occur within the body just prior to delivery override it's effect. Progesterone is vital for a successful pregnancy, but there is no evidence a low level causes abnormalities. We do have a page on Pregnancy which explains it's role. Take care Wray
Oct 28, 2011
 Progestrone Levels - 11 weeks
by: Wray

Hi there I'm so sorry this reply is so late. 80ng/ml is a good level, and it would be safe to begin reducing the amount. Two things in his favour, he's reducing the amount and not stopping the progesterone cold turkey. And he's waited until the 10th week, which is past the the two months when miscarriages are more likely to take place. Although I'm always in favour of continuing until the 3-4 month stage has past, in fact there's no harm done in using the progesterone the entire Pregnancy. It's not unusual for hormone levels to drop during the second trimester. But for the drop to occur between 8-10 weeks, shows your corpus luteum is slowing down progesterone production. This is normal at 8 weeks, but the drop indicates your placenta has not begun producing the same quantity. This is the reason I would always recommend continuing progesterone until the placenta has fully taken over. See Medline Progesterone for levels of progesterone in pregnancy. Take care Wray
Oct 28, 2011
 IM so confused
by: Wray

Hi Bellasmommy28 I have no idea why you've been started on the progesterone at such a late stage. It would be best to ask your doctor, maybe you have been spotting? Or he's worried about the cervix. I'm pleased you've been given vitamin D, such a vital nutrient for pregnancy and the growth of the foetus, but the level is far too low. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml and not the 30ng/ml labs and doctors regard as adequate. And the minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. Take care Wray
Oct 28, 2011
 Peach colored discharge
by: Wray

Hi there The gel is bioadhesive, attaching to the lining of the vagina, accumulation can occur. The vaginal discharge appears as white globules. The ingredients can contain carbomer, phenoxyethanol, caprylyl glycol, sorbic acid, triethanolamine, polyacrylamide, C13-14 isoparaffin, laureth-7, glycerine, vegetable oil, methyl and propylparaben. I can only assume the peach colour is caused by a small amount of blood. This would indicate your progesterone is dropping slightly, the cramping indicates this too. As progesterone stops any uterine cramps. Crinone comes in 45mg or 90mg applications, you don't say how much you are using. But if you're using progesterone to prevent a miscarriage the minimum you should be using is 200mg/day, although some doctors advocate up to 600mg/day. Are you using this much? We do have a page on Pregnancy which will give you more info. Take care Wray
Oct 30, 2011
 pregnant but progestrone level is 8
by: Anonymous

Hi
last week I did blood test and found pregnant with low progesterone. I have been using progesterone suppositories 200mg/twice a day since then. Is there any possibility for miscarriage?. I am not sure how many weeks I am pregnant now since I have irregular periods (today CD 46). Have another blood check tomorrow.
Oct 31, 2011
 Peach colored discharge
by: Concerned

I am using the 90mg suppositories. My progesterone seems to be rising at a normal rate but my doctor prescribed it as a precautionary medication, I guess. Since I had 3 miscarriages before during which times my progesterone was low. The peach colored discharge stopped (it was only there for maybe 30 minutes)and now it is back to cottage cheese looking globules. I keep on having light cramping at times. My doctor thinks it is due to my uterus expansion. And yesterday I felt some fluttering in my tummy. I am only 6 weeks! I am sure it is not movement, but what could it be? Do you think I should ask to increase the dose of my progesterone? Thanks a lot for your help!
Nov 03, 2011
 pregnant but progestrone level is 8
by: Wray

Hi there Progesterone certainly helps prevent miscarriages, it's often a drop in levels which cause them. There are other causes, but at least you are taking preventative measures. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page. I'm delighted your doctor has given you a sufficiently high amount too. Take care Wray
Nov 03, 2011
 Peach colored discharge
by: Wray

Hi there I don't believe 90mg is sufficient, specially as you've had 3 miscarriages. But evidently your doctor thinks it's fine. I've not heard of the uterus expanding so fast it would cause cramping. I suggest you monitor it and if it gets worse tell him. One role progesterone plays in pregnancy is keeping the uterus 'quiet', ie no cramping or contractions. And it's far too early to feel movement, see these images for a 6 week foetus here. This is an excellent site here which gives full explanations of the various weeks through pregnancy. Take care Wray
Nov 03, 2011
 6 wks Pregnant just started progesterone
by: Anonymous

Hi, After a scary week of blood tests & re-testing, my doctor has put me on 200mg progesterone suppository due to my progesterone level read of only 8.0 on my last blood test. The HCG is high at over 6000 and all other levels are clear. Im petrified & stressed & so very scared about miscarrying. Is there anything else I can possibly do to help increase my levels. This is my first pregnancy & im overly anxious with every bit of information.
Nov 05, 2011
 Pink Colored discharge
by: Concerened

I know that it cannot possibly be movement, but I was just wondering what else it could be. I spoke to the doctor a few days ago and he gave me the ok to use 90 mg of progesterone twice daily. So I guess that puts me with 180 mg per day now. However, I noticed that when I use the progesterone, I get cramping for about 20-30 minutes. So when you say that progesterone keeps things quiet, it looks like that's not the case with me. My doctor said that it is normal and to continue to use progesterone...Thanks again for your feedback.
Nov 08, 2011
 Pink Colored discharge
by: Wray

Hi there I'm pleased you've been given more progesterone, but please watch out for the cramps. These are evidence your progesterone is too low. The cramping you get when using it is it's stimulating oestrogen, plus the prostaglandins and other bio-chemicals which cause cramping. It's one of those paradoxes explained on our Oestrogen Dominance page. Take care Wray
Nov 08, 2011
 6 wks Pregnant just started progesterone
by: Wray

Hi there Unfortunately miscarriages are quite common, particularly if the woman is stressed. I had five miscarriages, all brought on by stress. I'm pleased you've been given 200mg/day progesterone, as it's evident your corpus luteum is not producing sufficient progesterone. In spite of the hCG. Please consider a vitamin D test, this is vital for a successful pregnancy, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. For more info on testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml and not the 30ng/ml labs and doctors regard as adequate. And the minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Nov 15, 2011
 How do I know if the progesterone I am taking is natural or synthetic?
by: Hopeful for #2

I am pregnant again for the second time. My first ended in miscarriage and it took a while for this one to happen. My fertility specialist gave me progesterone suppositories starting 6 days past ovulation. I have been reading about natural vs. synthetic and since I have just started taking it I think if mine is synthetic I should be able to switch to natural if there is a risk with the former. How do I know if the progesterone I am taking is natural or synthetic? I purchased it from my fertility doctor. I will ask when I have my next appointment, but in the meantime, is there a way to tell? It came with no labels or brands, just instructions on how to open the package, not even how to insert it.

Thanks for any advice.
Nov 17, 2011
 How do I know if the progesterone I am taking is natural or synthetic?
by: Wray

Hi there I find it extraordinary that so many drugs come with no label now. As if we are all too stupid to understand it! Normally suppositories are natural, it's the caps and injections which can be drugs. But you would have to confirm with the specialist, as often they believe the synthetic and natural are one and the same. Can you not phone rather than wait for your next appointment? Take care Wray
Nov 18, 2011
 6wkd 6 days just started progesterone
by: Anonymous

Hi I have had heavy bright red bleeding for four days now and doctor just proscribed progesterone 100 mg take once a bed time. I have had a healthy daughter of 16 months now I don't understand how everything was good during that pregnancy and not during this one? Is there a good chance that I started this to late and will more than likely have a miscarriage? I think from reading all that I have one this page that I need to be taking more than 100mg a night maybe 100 mg x3 a day? I'm confused I'm just now learning about this like I said it's never been an issue before.
Nov 18, 2011
 please please help
by: Anonymous

Hi there, from past 6months my cycles were regular,but there was no egg release. This time there was a dominant follicle but did not grow on time. So i was on letrozole to increase the size(increased to 25*25mm) and later on 22nd day of my cycle i was given pubergen injection for egg release (ovulation) (Me nd my hubby were in relation everyday before, after and on ovulation date). Later after 1wk, my doc suggested to start susten200mg (vaginally) for 15days (as it was induced ovulation, she said the progesterone levels will be low) and given a date where my period is due.However i din't get my period and im 1wk late. i dint stop susten as my doc suggested to continue 10 more of them.

I have these symptoms from past 2wks such as nausea throughout the day without vomiting, but have vomiting sensation, frequent trips to bathroom,mild headaches, mild abdominal cramps that come on and off, fatigue, dizziness, sleeplessness during nights,wierd feelings around my abdomen, i feel bloated, my breasts are numb and little painfull when pressed.

I am trying to get pregnant. I don't have any miscarriages. My doubt is y'day when i have done HPT, it came -ve. So do progesterone affect the result? and do u think I am pregnant? I am so worried that i cannot handle the -ves anymore as we are trying for past 3yrs. I don't have these symptoms at all before my periods anytime. Please help me, should I go for urine test now or after i finish all the progesterone pills. I used to have pcod earlier but later from past 6months i was diagnosed each time and there is no sign of it.

Please help me, do u think i have any chance of being pregnant now. May be i have got a false -ve result due to the effect of susten.
Nov 18, 2011
 How often should your progesterone levels be checked?
by: Leah

Hi! I am 33 years old and have an 8 and 6 year old son. In the past year I have had 2 miscarriages and now just found out I am pregnant again(4weeks) My doctors think miscarriages were due to low progesterone. Three months ago I started taking promitrium mid cycle. I had blood work done on this past Monday and they said my progesterone level was 26.5 and that was a good number. They said there was no need for me to come back and have it checked again. I am just really nervous because I can't get past 6 weeks. Do you think I should have it tested again to make sure this level didn't drop?
Nov 22, 2011
 6wkd 6 days just started progesterone
by: Wray

Hi there I would suggest you do increase the progesterone to at least 200mg/day. It must be used a minimum of twice a day too, as levels drop after about 13hrs. It's impossible to know why this pregnancy is not going as well as your first. Maybe you've had more stress recently, as this drops progesterone levels. We do have a page on Pregnancy which gives more info. I would also ask you to have a vitamin D test done too. This nutrient is vital for a successful pregnancy, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. For more info on testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. And the minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Nov 22, 2011
 please please help
by: Wray

Hi there It's so difficult to know if you are pregnant without a test, and what's causing your problems too. You say you don't have PCOS anymore, as that makes conceiving difficult. But it is possible to reverse it, as this page shows. You mention Susten, so I imagine you must be living in India. Please have a vitamin D test done, it's low in most of us, but particularly in India. Vitamin D is vital for ovulation and a successful pregnancy, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. For more info on testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. And the minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. We do have a page on Pregnancy too, which gives more info on how to use progesterone. Take care Wray
Nov 22, 2011
 How often should your progesterone levels be checked?
by: Wray

Hi Leah Are you still taking the Prometrium? Because after 2 miscarriages it would be advisable. Oral progesterone is not the best Delivery system. It would be better if you opened the capsule and added it to a small amount of cold pressed oil or a natural skin cream, and rubbed this on your skin. It should also be used a minimum of twice a day, and a minimum of 200mg/day. I believe your progesterone level could be higher, these are the ranges for pregnancy…..
1st trimester 11.2 - 90.0 ng/ml or 35.6 - 286.2 nmol/L
2nd trimester 25.6 - 89.4 ng/ml or 81.4 - 284.29 nmol/L
3rd trimester 48.4 - 425 ng/ml or 153.9 - 1351.5 nmol/L
See Medline Progesterone. We do have a page on Pregnancy with more info. If you're worried it's best to have a test, as worry drops progesterone levels which can cause a miscarriage. The test would put your mind at rest. Please have a vitamin D test done, it's vital for a successful pregnancy, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. For more info on testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. And the minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Dec 07, 2011
 Suppository & M/C
by: Anonymous

If i continue my progesterone, will it keep me from having a natural miscarriage? I had an iui nov 2 and started progesterone 3 days after on the 5th, 2x/d. I don't have a 28 day cycle. Last cycle was an unusual 38d before my 1st day of LMP of oct14. Again, iui nov2.
Anyway, dr diagnosed me with several types of m/c: threatened and finally blight ovum. She suggested stop taking the progesterone. I have no excessive bleeding, no pain symptoms of M/C. I initially bled because of sex and told her which prompted all her m/c diagnosis.
She said a week ago at 5ish week that the sac was small. This week dec 6 she said it doubled in size but no fetal pole. She said something is wrong and that soon im going to lose the pregnancy and might not be a viable pregnancy. I disagree after reading blogs and that timing is generally based under the standards of a 28 day cycle.
I'm giving the pregnancy a chance until my first prenatal visit either towards the end of dec or early jan. Will continuing my progesterone keep me from having a natural miscarriage?
Dec 07, 2011
 Pls help me! I don't know what to do.
by: Mari

I'm 6 weeks pregnant (today I’m 6 weeks) and just Monday I got my HCG and Progesterone levels and they are extremely low. My HCG's are about 5000 and Progesterone 5.8!!! My doctors send me to get an ultrasound and we were able to get a heartbeat of 124.

I'm very concern because I started taking progesterone about a week an half ago because my progesterone was already low and now on Monday when they checked again, it continues to be extremely low (5.8). I was taking the suppositories twice a day at 100 ml, since yesterday my doctor asked me to take 200ml twice a day. Now I'm not sure why my progesterone continues to be so low and if is even going to help my baby or if is too late.

I do have 4 big fibroids, the biggest is a bout 8 cm. I wonder if my fibroids are blocking the progesterone. I have shared my concerns with my doctor but she insists that since that there was a heart beat, that it looks like everything seems ok. I saw my doctor yesterday and she asked me to see her in 4 weeks, now I’m not a doctor but since my progesterone is so low, i would think she needs to monitor my progesterone right? I’m just afraid that is too late and why my body is not absorbing the progesterone.

I’m also amazed that I haven’t had any bleeding and the baby seems okay even with such a low number in my HCG and progesterone. I’m considering changing doctors. Please help me! any feedback will be appreciated. Thank you for your time.
Dec 07, 2011
 continuation on low progesterone and help!
by: mari

I was reading about progesterone and how it drops every 13 hours.. I wanted to ask you if the fact that the day I got my blood work done, I did not take my progesterone suppository in the morning had anything to do with getting such a low progesterone level. I took it sunday night and on Monday morning i didn't take it and then got my blood work around 11 am.. I also did not have any food or water since Sunday night.. not sure if these factor could have affected my progesterone levels (5.8) prior to that i had been taking my progesterone daily twice a day for about a week and a half one a day and one at night (100 ml.) .. Thank you very much once again
Dec 08, 2011
 Suppository & M/C
by: Wray

Hi there Many miscarriages are due to low progesterone levels, or a sharp drop in levels. If she diagnosed you with several types of miscarriage, surely she would have done a progesterone and hCG test? And I take it she prescribed the progesterone, how much did she give you? Amounts vary from 200mg/day to 600mg/day for IUI or IVF treatments. If it is a blighted ovum or some genetic problem, the progesterone won't prevent a miscarriage. But if you think otherwise, then I suggest you stay on the progesterone until certain. I find it so strange doctors go by the LMP, and not from ovulation, as this is of course when conception occurs. And of course they should take into account the cycle length if they insist on using the LMP. Normal cycle lengths vary from 21 days to 35 days, making 28 the average only. If yours was 38 days, it falls out of the normal range, but evidently they thought it fine to go ahead with the IUI. But as it was an IUI, they would know exactly when conception took place, or they would not have done the procedure. The uterus must have been primed and ready to receive the sperm, an egg only lives 24 hrs, 48 at the most. Little point in fertilising you days before. So if fertilisation did take place, and you had the IUI on 2nd Nov, then you are now 36 days pregnant. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page. Take care Wray
Dec 08, 2011
 Pls help me! I don't know what to do.
by: Wray

Hi Mari Your hCG is on the low side, it ranges from 1,080 - 56,500 mIU/ml, see American Pregnancy Association hCG levels. But your progesterone is very low, it should range from 11.2 - 90.0 ng/ml in the first trimester, see Medline. On the other hand they've found a heart beat and don't seem too concerned. It's most important to use the suppositories twice a day, as a sudden drop in progesterone can cause a miscarriage. If you have been forgetting to use them that could possibly account for the low level. We do have a page on Pregnancy, it explains progesterone's role and how to use it. Please look through it. Take care Wray
Dec 10, 2011
 body's natural defenses vs. Progesterone supplements?
by: Anonymous

If a pregnancy is deemed not viable at six weeks, will my body be allowed to bleed out in order to have a natural miscarriage while continuing to take 200mg/ 2x day progesterone? I'm still taking it in hopes that the diagnosis is wrong and r/o the possibility of wrong timing. I'm due for an US on the Dec 21, which makes the standard timing of 9 wks gestational and 7 weeks post conception or 38 days pregnant. I was told on dec 6 that in the next two weeks, i would have severe cramping and heavy bleeding and go to the ER meaning actual miscarriage but will that happen while continuing to take the vaginal progesterone suppository ?
I understand from reading your website progesterone is supposed to keep me from bleeding.  Will the body know when it's time to expel the pregnancy from the body and ignore the progesterone ? 
Dec 11, 2011
 body's natural defenses vs. Progesterone supplements?
by: Wray

Hi there If the body deems the foetus unviable, then other factors will over ride the progesterone and you should then have a miscarriage. I suggest you let it takes it's course and ask your doctors for more advice when you see them. Take care Wray
Dec 11, 2011
 Twins Question
by: Lori B

I just found out I'm preg with twins after an ivf with donor embryos. I'm six weeks and 2 days. I'm suddenly having brown discharge covering the toilet paper and I'm worried. I take 100mg Sup of Progesterone 2x/day and have been for months. I mentioned the brown discharge to my doc and he said it's probably a side effect of the progesterone. Do you think I should ask him to check my levels again and is it common to need more after finding out your having twins? Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks so much.
Dec 11, 2011
 vitamin d and low progesterone
by: Anonymous

Hi there! Thank u so much for educating us! A few days i wrote to u regarding my very long progesterone. I was reading other posts in your page and i came across an article on vitamin D. My vitamin D Level was very low and my doctor prescribed me with 50,000 once a week. Im pregnant and i also have low progesterone. I think im starting to see the relationship. I have two questions.
1. Since im pregnant and i had vitamin D defficiency and now im taking a pill once a week 50,000... Is that enough vitamin while being pregnant?
2. My progesterone level was 5.8 and i was talking ptog. 100 2x per day. Recently my doctor raised my prog. Suppossitories to 200 BUT she gave me the option to take it twice or three times per day. Not sure what to do. Will too much progestetone harm the baby? What if i take the prog. Suppossittories too close in time? For example if i take one at 8 oclock and the other at 2 pm and the other one at 9 pm? Any feedback would be very apprecciated. I feel alone in this problem, especially since i dont know if i should take the 400 ml or 600 ml a day..thank u so much
Dec 12, 2011
 Twins Question
by: Wray

Hi Lori The brown discharge is normally old, oxidised blood. The suppositories do not turn brown, you would have noticed this before as you say you've been using them for months now. Twins do require more nutrients than a singleton pregnancy, but in the early days they won't be drawing much from you. I suggest you ask your doctor to check your levels again, particularly progesterone. hCG is the hormone which stimulates progesterone production, if the corpus luteum is not responding to the message, little progesterone will be made. Admittedly you are using supplemental progesterone, but I would advise using more. When he does the test, please ask him to do one for vitamin D, this is essential for a successful pregnancy and the growth of the foetus, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. For more info on levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. And the minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Another nutrient you could consider is taurine, this is also vital for the foetus, see here, here and here. We do have a page on Pregnancy which gives more info. Take care Wray
Dec 12, 2011
 vitamin d and low progesterone
by: Wray

Hi there 50,000iu's once a week is giving you about 7000iu's per day, which is a good dose. But it's far better to take it daily, we were designed to get it daily from the sun. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. And the minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Vitamin D is essential for pregnancy, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. I'm relieved your doctor increased your progesterone, 200mg/day is the minimum which should be given for IVF, IUI or recurrent miscarriages. We do have a page on Pregnancy which gives more info, plus studies using progesterone. You'll notice 600mg/day is often given too, so there's no harm in it. The times you've given are fine too. You might be interested to learn that Dr Dalton would give her patients 6 x 400mg suppositories in one day if symptoms were very severe, notably post natal psychosis. This averages out at about 1 every 2-3 hours. For more info on vitamin D levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Take care Wray
Dec 17, 2011
 stitching and progesterone pessaries
by: Anonymous

hi i need to know if after you have a sutture and dont continue to take the progesterone pessarie could that be a cause for an early miscarriage
Dec 18, 2011
 stitching and progesterone pessaries
by: Wray

Hi there Do you mean a cervical suture? It can help prevent a miscarriage if the cervix is opened more than normal. More often than not, a miscarriage is caused by low progesterone, or a sudden drop in levels. Providing a genetic abnormality was not found. Progesterone is vital for Pregnancy, a sharp drop in levels by discontinuing the pessaries would almost inevitably cause one. Please read through the page I've given you as it explains how to use progesterone. Take care Wray
Dec 19, 2011
 twins.
by: Anonymous

hi I was taking the Hydroxprogesterone 250mg and pregnant with twins. I had pelvic pain and alot of back back after my second shot. I have past peterm labor problems and was told to take the shot that it would help me to not have contractions.My only problem is that the shot is not meant for twins and can cause misscarrige which happened to me.
I started taking the shot at 16 week and at 17 almost 18 weeks I went into labor. I lost my twins when throughout the whole pregnancy didnt have any problems. I never threw up or had any pain at all until I started taking the shot. I even told my husband that Im not going to get another one after my second shot because of the pain I felt after. Not in the shot site but the pelvic pain. And worse of all I got to the hospital for two days and was told there was nothing they could do to stop contractions and on the third day gave birth to live twins that pass three hours later. Im in such grieve and anger with the hospital and looking into legal counsel. Question? was it just one of those things that happen? Looking on google tells me differently but maybe someone can help me at ease. always can write to me at (Note from webmaster, we don't publish email addresses as it can invite spam)
thank you.
Dec 20, 2011
 Progesterone Vaginal Tablets
by: SarMcn

Hi I am currently 6.4 wks pregnant with my 3rd child and I had my first prenatal visit yesterday. During my ultrasound the doc found a hematoma and put me on progesterone vaginal tablets. I wanted to know if you can get the same symptoms even if its delivered vaginally? Will I be able to go about everyday while on these tablets? And since my baby had a heartbeat whats the risk of miscarraige while on progesterone???
Dec 21, 2011
 twins
by: Wray

Hi there I would have to know what version of hydroxyprogesterone you were using. There are two forms… 17-OHP and 17-OHP-C. 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) is a naturally occurring metabolite of progesterone. Whereas 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17-OHP-C), is a synthetic progestin also used to prevent miscarriages and pre-term births. Often the same term is used for both compounds. No adverse side affects have been reported with the use of 17-OHP, which is produced primarily by the adrenal glands, and increases in the third trimester. But 17-OHP-C I would not recommend, as there are safety concerns about it's use. It doesn't appear to reduce preterm contractions either. I would always favour the use of progesterone though, and let the body metabolise it naturally into 17-OHP. There is no evidence to date of any adverse side effects to the foetus while using progesterone during pregnancy, and it's more potent that 17-OHP-C, see here and here. The hospital was evidently trying to help, they know nothing about natural progesterone, only about drugs. So I don't think legal counsel will help you. Progesterone does help quieten uterine contractions, see here. We also have a page on Pregnancy you might like to look through. It explains the role progesterone plays and how to use it. I would also recommend having a vitamin D test done, it's vital for pregnancy, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. Continued below.
Dec 21, 2011
 twins Part 2
by: Wray

Hi there For more info on levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. And the minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Dec 21, 2011
 Progesterone Vaginal Tablets
by: Wray

Hi SarMcn I'm not sure what you mean by "the same symptoms even if its delivered vaginally". What symptoms are you expecting? Progesterone is effective if vaginal delivery is used. The tablets won't affect what you do, although they can leak out. For more info you might like to see our page on Delivery systems. Progesterone won't cause a miscarriage, the reverse in fact, as it's vital for pregnancy, a drop in levels often causing miscarriages. We do have a page on Pregnancy you might like to look through. Take care Wray
Dec 22, 2011
 RPL and FVL
by: Naomi

I am just wondering what a normal dose for progesterone compound suppositories are. I am 9 weeks and started having a lot af cramping like i am going to get a heavy period. This is the first pregnancy I have had with no bleeding...even 1 sucuessful pregnancy I bleed the entire time. I am also currently taking Lovenox for the FVL. The doctor just prescribed me progesterone 200mg 3x/day. The pharmacist called me because they yhink the dose is to high. Is this a normal dose...600mg/day?
Dec 22, 2011
 RPL and FVL
by: Wray

Hi Naomi The amount can vary between 200-600mg/day for IVF, threatened miscarriage or pre-term births. We do have a page on Pregnancy which has plenty of papers you can read. Many women use this much and more for adverse symptoms they're experiencing. If the situation warrants it, then only a high amount will help. I imagine you've been given 600mg/day because of the cramping, progesterone does quieten the uterus. I'm puzzled why you've been given the Lovenox. Have you had clots in the past? It seems strange to give you a blood thinner when one of your problems is bleeding throughout pregnancy. Progesterone thins blood, please take this into account, you might have to reduce the drug. Please consider having a vitamin D test done. This also thins blood, and is vital for a successful pregnancy and a healthy child, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. Take care Wray
Dec 28, 2011
 Advice please
by: Anonymous

Hi, I am seeking advice please. I am 10wks Pregnant but previously have had a M/C at 8 wks. I have PCOS am being monitored by an early pregnancy clinic and at 7 wks they placed me on Progesterone 200mg OD for 30 days to help the lining of my womb become stronger. As i mentioned before I have had a ten week scan all is well thankfully but they have not continued me on the Pregesterone. The nurse had informed me that I shouldn't need them now and have been discharge from early p clinic and advised to await 12 wk scan appointment. But, I have read on this blog that i shouldn't stop taking them ? Please if anyone could help it I would be very greatful.
Em
Jan 01, 2012
 100mg pessary every night @ 4 weeks pregnant
by: Mum Of 6yo genius!

Hello Wray, Wish you a very Happy New Year!

I suffered a missed miscarriage at 11 weeks 4 months ago, but the foetus had stopped growing at 9 weeks. My doctor checked my progesterone levels last month during the tail end of my menstrual cycle (level was 21).. She gave us the go ahead to try again, I have a positive pregnancy test today!! Last month during my 3-month check up after the D&E, she prescribed progesterone pessaries 100mg every night as soon as I had a positive pregnancy result. I will therefore start taking them tonight.

I'm writing for some reassurance please, just to know if you feel this course of action would be beneficial to sustain the pregnancy? I have never used these before this, so am also a little nervous about side-effects. I have heard that it can cause spotting, but from your responses above, this could be a myth...

Thank you for your time and dedication to this forum.

Cheers
Jan 02, 2012
 Advice please
by: Wray

Hi there OD can stand for many things, do you mean oral progesterone? It's not the best Delivery system. Normally injections or suppositories are given, although I have found a cream to be as effective. I would never recommend going cold turkey with progesterone, for whatever problem it's being used for. Adverse symptoms can come back, and in the case of miscarriages, the sudden drop can cause one. It's always best to taper off slowly, although it is safe to continue it throughout pregnancy. To say you 'shouldn't need it now' is very lax, did they not do a test to see your levels? Or check your hCG levels? We do have a page on Pregnancy you can look through. It explains the role progesterone plays and how to use it. Please have a vitamin D test done, this is also implicated in miscarriages, see here, here and here. It's also vital for pregnancy too, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. Continued below. Take care Wray
Jan 02, 2012
 Advice please Part 2
by: Wray

Hi there For more info on levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. And the minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Jan 09, 2012
 How long does it take to Absorb?
by: JenD

I have been using progesterone pessaries for this pregnancy following a m/c a few months ago. I use them at night. However, I am having to get up to go to the bathroom a few hours after going to sleep. How long does it take to absorb? Will it be fully absorbed after a few hours when I get up to go to the bathroom?
Jan 10, 2012
 I am so confused
by: Sony

Hi Wray earlier u gave a reply to my question and it was very helpful. I stay in India.I used susten before my last cycle (i used it only for one cycle). However,unfortunately I was not pregnant and I had my cycle on Nov 29.I didn't want to use susten anymore and i dint use it at all. On Dec 9th night i suffered with very bad stomach pain. Later on 20th Dec i noticed light brown discharge.But i din't get my period yet. i had very bad stomach crampings until yesterday and also nausea, vomiting sensation and also for the past 10days i have white discharge all the time. I feel as if my period is cuming but not. Do you think i can be pregnant this time or are these symptoms due to the susten i used earlier?? My hubby and i are intimate all the time evreyday until 31st Dec. your reply would be very helpfull as i am afraid to do for a test.
Jan 14, 2012
 How long does it take to Absorb?
by: Wray

Hi JenD Yes it's rapidly absorbed in the vagina, as there's a plentiful supply of blood vessels. These transport the progesterone within minutes to the uterus where it's needed. We do have a page on Pregnancy you might like to look through. There are plenty of papers on studies. Progesterone is an excellent diuretic, which is why you are going to the bathroom after a few hours. Please have a vitamin D test done, its vital for the growing foetus, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. Another nutrient you might consider is taurine, also vital, see here, here and here. Take care Wray
Jan 14, 2012
 I am so confused
by: Wray

Hi Sony Without a test it's very difficult to tell if you're pregnant or not. Nausea is a symptom of early pregnancy, but you shouldn't be having cramps or a white discharge. The symptoms won't be due to the susten, this is progesterone and often used for miscarriages. Although if pregnant, it should never be used for just one cycle. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page. The info explains how to use progesterone, when to use it and how much. Please take a look. Please also have a vitamin D test done, it's low in most of us, India in particular. It's vital for a successful pregnancy, see here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. For more info on vitamin D levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Jan 25, 2012
 nw 6 wks preg. can i start progestrone nw.
by: sony

hi, wray
I am 6 weeks pregnant from Lmp and i'm primi. Today my gyne did a obstretic scan and told preg. is normal and heartbeat could be seen but corpus luteum was not seen on both sides. So she told me to take I.M. progest 500mg / week along with 200 mg vaginal tablet. But when i insisted on non injectable she told me to take 300mg vaginal suppostary.
I have no problems as of now or bleeding. Now i wanna know..
1. should i test my hormonal level first?
2. Is it safe to start so late?
3.Is 300 mg vaginal tab. adequate
I am from India, pls advice i am dieing of anxiety. Thanks Wren.
Jan 25, 2012
 nw 6 wks preg. can i start progestrone nw.
by: Wray

Hi Sony It is normal to do both an hCG and a progesterone test if low levels are suspected. Maybe your gyne prefers to work by looking at the corpus luteum. It's so very tiny I'm amazed she could detect it. Suppositories are pleasanter than injections, which are painful by all accounts. It is safe to start at 6 weeks, in fact that's when most gynes start their patients. Although I would always recommend starting before falling pregnant, as miscarriages can occur at an earlier age. I recommend nothing less than 200mg/day if a miscarriage is likely. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page. If you're concerned ask your gyne to have tests done. Take care Wray
Jan 25, 2012
 thanks a lot.
by: Sony

hi, Wray. Thanks a lot for replying so fast. U really relieved my tension. Sony :-)

Hi Sony I'm glad! Take care Wray
Jan 27, 2012
 IVF Treatment w/progesterone
by: Veronica

Hello this is my 1st IVF all 3 embies attached 1 demised at 7 weeks now pregnant with twins Doctor had me stop the suppositories and injections starting my 2nd trimester. Now I'm 15 weeks at 13weeks I miscarriage my demise I bleed a lot ever sense then I been spotting could this mean I need more progesterone?
Jan 28, 2012
 IVF Treatment w/progesterone
by: Wray

Hi Veronica I'm a bit puzzled by your comment. Do you mean you are no longer pregnant now, or that one embryo is still viable? I would never recommend stopping progesterone at 12 weeks. It's still a critical stage in the change over from corpus luteum production and placental production. Another thing, stopping progesterone cold turkey can cause a miscarriage. If you are still pregnant, and you're spotting, it definitely means you are low in progesterone. Please see our page on Pregnancy for more info. Take care Wray
Feb 01, 2012
 6 weeks pregnant!
by: Djenie

I'm 6 weeks pregnant and my progesterone level is 14 which is normal but because I've already had 4 miscarriages so they going to start me on progesterone supository so i ask her what was the side effect she said it was Cramping . Which scares me away ! What do you think I should do??
Feb 01, 2012
 6 weeks pregnant!
by: Wray

Hi Djenie I don't see how she could have said a side effect is cramping, as progesterone prevents cramping. Although it is possible for Oestrogen Dominance to occur when increasing the amount of progesterone. This is because progesterone stimulates oestrogen initially, this is the reason for morning sickness etc which we get when first pregnant. It does pass, and if you have had 4 miscarriages it's best to use it to prevent another. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page. Take care Wray
Feb 01, 2012
 Progesterone
by: Veronica

Hi Wray Yes I'm still pregnant with twins I miscarriage the 3rd one 3 weeks ago, the spotting has slowed down dramatically so that makes me feel good seeing all that brown every time I wiped had me on the edge. I need to change provider I feel like this OB is not following me up like he should.
Feb 01, 2012
 Progesterone
by: Wray

Hi Veronica Well I'm relieved to hear you're still pregnant. And pleased the spotting has slowed down. If you still have some progesterone left I suggest you continue using it. Take care Wray
Feb 07, 2012
 Taking Duphaston & Letrozole 2.5mg
by: Sirohi

Hi,

I am going to turn 33 yrs this April and have had a child without any problems about 4 yrs back, however he passed away in 10 days of his birth due to . I then conceived twice since then,both being missed abortion cases in 7 weeks after having spotted along with cramps.
After the 2nd missed abortion I have done all tests required including blood profiling and found out that I have blood coagulation problem. Homo-Cysteine level was 15 which was 2 points above normal range(13 -->MTHFR +ve)
My doc has advised me to take Ecosprin 75mg Daily , Folic Acid 5mg Daily , Letrozole 2.5mg from 3rd to 7th day of cycle , Duphaston 10mg daily from 13th to 22nd day of cycle.

I am TTC since 2 mnths, however am appalled that my doc never advised me on taking Progesterone which happens to be the most important hormone for successful pregnancy. I wanted to know if I should take Susten 200mg twice daily once I have confirmed pregnancy. If I take Susten 200mg twice daily, would it be harmful to me or my baby in any way?? Is it necessary to first check my progesterone levels before taking the supplement?? I am very confused and being in Nigeria now since 2 yrs does not help me much in terms of medical facilities. I bring my meds from India.

Your advice will be most welcome as I need to know when shud one start to take Susten suppositories ,once confirmed pregnancy or from date of ovulation? I am already taking duphaston , does that suffice?

P.S: I have never had problem conceiving, sustaining pregnancy is a challenge and no PCOD.

Thanks :)
Feb 07, 2012
 Taking Duphaston & Letrozole 2.5mg
by: Wray

Hi Sirohi I'm thoroughly confused as to why you are taking Letrozole and Duphaston if you're trying to fall pregnant. Letrozole is an aromatase inhibitor, which prevents the production of oestrogen, and is primarily given for breast cancer. It's used off label for ovulation induction, you don't have a problem ovulating! Duphaston is a synthetic progestin, it's not progesterone, see here. It was was taken off the market in the UK in March 2008. All synthetic progestins have the potential to harm, see our page on Contraceptives. They do cause bleeding at the end of the cycle, as progesterone does, but cannot be broken down by the body into the progesterone metabolites. These are as important for pregnancy as progesterone is. And the last thing you want is bleeding at the end of the cycle if you're trying to fall pregnant. If you used only progesterone, this would help build a safe, natural lining for the embryo to implant. And the last thing you do is stop it if you have fallen pregnant, this often causes a miscarriage. We do have a page on Pregnancy which explains how, when and how much to use. Please have a vitamin D test done, this is often the cause of miscarriages too, see here, here and here. It's also vital for a successful pregnancy and the growth of the foetus, see here, here, here, here, here, here and here. Continued below.
Feb 07, 2012
 Taking Duphaston & Letrozole 2.5mg Part 2
by: Wray

Hi Sirohi These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. For more info on vitamin D levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Feb 09, 2012
 3 weeks 5 days pregnant
by: Anonymous

Hi, I had a miscarriage in 2003 followed by a very successful pregnancy. 4 years later- another very successful pregnancy. In november 2011 I miscarried at 8 weeks and had to have a d and c. My husband and I decided to ttc as soon as doctor said it was safe. Now I am pregnant again (yay!): I called my doctor to let him know and he prescribed progesterone vaginal suppository (I am uncertain of the mg as the pharmicist hasn't got them in yet).
My concerns are: I have read that progesterone can cause uterine contractions as a side effect. Is this true? Also I have read several posts of ladies who indicated they started the progesterone then days later miscarried. Was progesterone the likely cause? I am scared to take it and scared not to take it. Also I will be 36 years old in April so worried my levels of progesterone may be dropping due to age? My doctor did not seem to think blood tests were neccessary. I really need advice!
Feb 10, 2012
 3 weeks 5 days pregnant
by: Wray

Hi there Progesterone suppositories normally come in 100-200mg sizes. 200mg/day should be the minimum to use. Progesterone is vital for a successful pregnancy, it cannot cause contractions! If it did none of us would have had children. We make over 400ng/ml per day during the third trimester. In fact progesterone stops the contractions, and keeps the uterus 'quiet', see here. One cause of miscarriage is a sudden drop in progesterone levels, it appears those women must have stopped the progesterone. Maybe they forgot to use in for a day? What ever you do, do not stop the progesterone suddenly, and use it daily for the first 3-4 months. Always reduce the amount slowly if you are not going to use it for the duration of the pregnancy, by no more than 16mg per reduction, staying on the reduced amount for a few days, before continuing with another reduction. All doctors make the women stop it suddenly. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page. Take care Wray
Feb 10, 2012
 Stopping prometrium at 13 weeks
by: Hima

Hi, I have been on prometrium 200 mg twice a day vaginally since 3 days past my iui. After a positive pregnancy test, I have been taking 3 per day. My doc asked me to stop the supplements after 10 weeks but I insisted to be on them for 12 weeks. I have reduced to 2 doses in the week of 13. I just started 14 th week and my doc asked my to stop it now. I started brown discharge 3 days after reducing dose from 3 to 2 in 13th week. My doc says the bleeding could be from the irritation from prometrium and I should stop but i am worried. The progesterone blood results in 13th week were 40. Does that include supplements too? Is it safe to stop prometrium now that I started 14 th week? Thank you for any advice that you may offer.
Feb 11, 2012
 Stopping prometrium at 13 weeks
by: Wray

Hi Hima Stopping progesterone suddenly can cause a miscarriage. The drop you made from 3 suppositories to 2 was too fast, hence the brown discharge. If the prometrium was causing irritation, why only now?! I recommend reducing progesterone by no more than 16mg per reduction. Not only that but staying on that reduction for a few days, before reducing again by 16mg, and so on. In other words very slowly. You dropped from 600mg/day down to 400mg/day in one day. 1st trimester levels range from 11.2 - 90.0 ng/ml, and 2nd trimester levels range from 25.6 - 89.4 ng/ml, see Medline Progesterone. So the 40ng/ml is within range, and yes the test does pick up any supplemental progesterone. Although normally it would be higher with the amount you're using. If you have any left I suggest you continue with them. But it's impossible to reduce a suppository slowly! You could try cutting off 1/8th, which would reduce the total amount by 25mg. See how you get on, and if fine, cut off 1/4 the next time, and so on. Then use up the cut off portions in decreasing amounts. This is why I prefer a cream! We do have a page on Pregnancy you could look through. Take care Wray
Feb 11, 2012
 Progesterone Pessaries
by: Anonymous

Hi,

For the past 1 year and a half I have noticed spotting 2 weeks before my expected period. After going to the gynae for some time she decided to put me on cyclogest 200 since she thinks I have low porgesterone. She said that this will help my body prepare for a baby just in case fertilization occurs. After 7 days of cyclogest i noticed that I still got the usual spotting and she put me on cyclogest 400. I felt sick after one day of taking them but I seem to be fine now. What i wanted to ask is if you think I am on the right track please? And by the way i visited my gynae since I was not managing to get pregnant. I have carried out tests and she has also confirmed that ovulation is happening.
Thanks a lot
Feb 11, 2012
 Progesterone Pessaries
by: Wray

Hi there You are on the right track, and your gynae is spot on. A lack of progesterone does cause spotting, normally it occurs in the last few days of the luteal phase, not in it's entirety. And I'm delighted she's decided to give it to you before conception, and not as most of them do, after it! We do have a page on Pregnancy which gives you an idea of what progesterone does. Take care Wray
Feb 11, 2012
 Progesterone pessaries
by: Anonymous

Thanks so much wray. And well done for all this interesting information that is explained very well.
Thanks. :)
Feb 12, 2012
 Question
by: Anonymous

My progesterone level dropped I think from stress from 26 to 16 in a week. I requested progesterone and was on 200 mg suppositories Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday 2x a day. I consulted with another doctor Monday who thought I should check levels again. On Tuesday, it was 40 and she recommended only using 200 mg 1x a day suppository for now, so from Tuesday until this Sunday ( less than a week) I have only used it once a night. But I just began to worry that this decrease could cause problems. I know the suppositories are absorbed locally, less shows up in the blood. Was my uterus used to this dosage even after only four days? Is it safer for me to return to the 200 mg/ 2 times a day until 12 weeks. I just began my 8th week of pregnancy.

If someone has experience I this please let me know. Was this okay to taper after 4 days? Or should I immediately return to the 2x a day since that was started, albeit for a short time,
Feb 12, 2012
 Addition to last post
by: Anonymous

The doctors I have seen do not do progesterone monitoring- I am requesting checking this for the first trimester based on what I have read,
I have another question - after 4 days of the 200 mg 2x as suppositories, would it have shown up in the blood work? The second doctor I consulted said it would not show up that quickly. Was the 40 level then most likely my own? My initial level a couple weeks ago was fine- 26. The stress over a week was intense- a family crisis almost a shock, but has remedied. I spent the week after with guided imagery and meditation and felt very relaxed. Could the 4o then be my own level?

I am wondering if I should request 100 mg and take that during the day, with 200 at night, as a way off tapering off, though I have only been on 200 mg per night the last five nights. I am just worried that was too quick of a change and I need to remedy it now with an increase and then a taper. Please let me know, Wray, what you would recommend given this situation. Thank you do much.
Feb 12, 2012
 Addition to last post
by: Anonymous

The doctors I have seen do not do progesterone monitoring- I am requesting checking this for the first trimester based on what I have read,
I have another question - after 4 days of the 200 mg 2x as suppositories, would it have shown up in the blood work? The second doctor I consulted said it would not show up that quickly. Was the 40 level then most likely my own? My initial level a couple weeks ago was fine- 26. The stress over a week was intense- a family crisis almost a shock, but has remedied. I spent the week after with guided imagery and meditation and felt very relaxed. Could the 4o then be my own level?

I am wondering if I should request 100 mg and take that during the day, with 200 at night, as a way off tapering off, though I have only been on 200 mg per night the last five nights. I am just worried that was too quick of a change and I need to remedy it now with an increase and then a taper. Please let me know, Wray, what you would recommend given this situation. Thank you do much.
Feb 12, 2012
 Prometrium too early
by: Annie

I think I may have inserted my first tablet too early. I had a positive ovulation test Friday morning. Took my first tablet vaginally 40 hours later. Was that too soon? Should I continue? I read if you took too early it would prevent ovulation. My doctor prescribed 6 months ago and I was nervouse to try. I have not been able to get pregnant and thought I better give it a go.
Feb 12, 2012
 re spotting
by: Anonymous

Dear Wray,

I have been spotting sometime before my period. I was prescribed pessaries and my brown spotting did improve but I can still see some slight spotting. Is this ok or would this still be a problem for me to get pregnant? This is my first cycle that I have used them.

Thanks a lot
Feb 13, 2012
 Progesterone pessaries
by: Wray

Hi there Thanks for the kind words! Take care Wray
Feb 13, 2012
 Question
by: Wray

Hi there I think every pregnant woman should have some progesterone handy in case of stress. I had five miscarriages, all due to stress, but knew nothing about progesterone then. Nor it seems did my doctors! I'm so pleased you asked for the progesterone, it's certainly raised your levels. They are within the normal range for the second trimester, see Medline Progesterone. I would never suggest decreasing so suddenly, from 400mg to 200mg, this is the reason I dislike suppositories. I normally recommend 16mg reductions, not 200mg! But the thing to watch for is any spotting or brown discharge, which you haven't mentioned. It is safe to increase back to the 400mg/day if you feel it will make you less stressed worrying about it. Amounts range from 200-600mg/day if a miscarriage is likely, so you are still within that range. When you do taper, please do so much slower than the way you did it, and do not stop cold turkey, which is more than likely what you will be told to do. We have more info on our Pregnancy page. Take care Wray
Feb 13, 2012
 Addition to last post
by: Wray

Hi there Progesterone travels rapidly round the body, within minutes it's in the uterus if used vaginally, see here, here here. So of course the tests picked up the progesterone from the suppositories! It takes time after a shock, for the corpus luteum to resume the previous output. I think I have answered your other questions in my previous reply. Take care Wray
Feb 13, 2012
 Prometrium too early
by: Wray

Hi Annie It will only prevent ovulation if you use it about 8 days before ovulation, and you use 200mg/day or more. You don't say what strength your tablet is, but probably 100mg? Secondly, something no one seems to know, there is a rise in progesterone ±50 hours prior to ovulation. This surge comes from the brain, and it's suspected it actually causes the LH surge which initiates ovulation, see here, here, here and here. So using it 40 hrs later is fine. We do have a page on Pregnancy you might like to look through. Take care Wray
Feb 13, 2012
 re spotting
by: Wray

Hi there Any spotting means progesterone levels are low. MMP's are enzymes that break down protein. They play a role in the breakdown of endometrial tissues at the end of the menstrual cycle, see here. Progesterone suppresses MMP's, see here. So it's only when the corpus luteum stops making progesterone at the end of the cycle, that levels plummet and the MMP's can begin breaking down the lining. In some instances they can cause a pathological reaction if excess oestrogen is present, as oestrogen stimulates their production. This can lead to inflammation, spotting and/or excessive bleeding in the uterus. If a low level of progesterone is present, and a high level of oestrogen, the lining will continue to grow. With a high level of MMP's the lining will also continue to break down. This can of course lead to heavy continual bleeding in some women. I imagine the pessary is 100mg? This might not be sufficient, I recommend 100-200mg/day, more if symptoms are severe. We do have a page on Pregnancy you might like to look at. It explains how to use progesterone, when and how much, plus the role progesterone plays. Take care Wray
Feb 13, 2012
 Taking Duphaston & Letrozole 2.5mg
by: Sirohi

Hi Wray,

Thanks so much for your prompt response Wray, I did get my menses on 11th Feb and hope things workout soon for us. I have switched off Letrozole and Duphaston. Will keep you posted.

Thanks again for your advice.
Feb 13, 2012
 re spotting
by: Anonymous

Dear Wray

I am currently on 400 a day but I only started 400 a day after 7 days because we realised that 200 a day is too little. Although I still saw brown discharge my gynae has recommended in taking 400 a day for the next cycle.

Thanks
Feb 14, 2012
 Taking Duphaston & Letrozole 2.5mg
by: Wray

Hi Sirohi I'm relieved to hear this! Don't forget the progesterone and vitamin D. Take care Wray
Feb 14, 2012
 re spotting
by: Wray

Hi there I'm pleased your gynae has increased the amount, it's so safe, and why take an uneccesary risk. Take care Wray
Feb 15, 2012
 Prometrium too early
by: Annie

I think I may have inserted my first tablet too early. I had a positive ovulation test Friday morning. Took my first tablet vaginally 40 hours later. Was that too soon? Should I continue? I read if you took too early it would prevent ovulation. My doctor prescribed 6 months ago and I was nervouse to try. I have not been able to get pregnant and thought I better give it a go.
Feb 15, 2012
 Prometrium too early
by: Wray

Hi Annie I have answered your query. If you look back up the page to Feb 13th. Take care Wray
Feb 15, 2012
 How to say decrease?
by: In 8th week pregnancy

I am on 200 mg/ twice a day suppository. It was recommended in the posts to decrease by 16 mg at a time for a few days. First, is that possible with a suppository? Would 50 mg be (100 cut in half) be acceptable? Second, did you mean 16 mg total per day or 16 mg off each dose?
Also, if I would like to be on 200 mg a day, is it better to be on that once a day at night as recommended or better to do 100 mg twice a day? Thanks!
Feb 15, 2012
 I meant how to SAFELY decrease :)
by: In 8th week pregnancy

My iPad is auto filling and changing what I write! Also I meant if is POSSIBLE with a suppository to decrease in small amounts? do they come in 25 mg or 50 mg prescriptions?
Feb 15, 2012
 Natural FET and Cyclogest pessaries
by: indecisive

Hi,
I am to have a natural FET on monday the 20th after detecting a LH surge on the 13th. I am having 2 five-day blasts put in.
I got worried as I wasn't even given progesterone on this cycle and though I've read they are not needed on a natural cycle,I have 13 400mg pessaries left from my last failed IVF and am contemplating on using them. If I were to use them (against my clinics recommendation) , when should I start?
My period started 1.2.
lh surge 13.2.
Many thanks x
Feb 15, 2012
 re spotting
by: Anonymous

Therefore would you think taking 400 twice a day would be better than 400 once a day? I obviously have to speak to my gynae re this beforehand.

Thanks
Feb 16, 2012
 I meant how to SAFELY decrease :)
by: Wray

Hi there I did notice the spelling error and changed it. I must say I was very puzzled by the word! Now I understand. Reducing gradually with a suppository is very difficult, which is why I prefer a cream. Having used suppositories myself, there's no way I would go back to them! Too many women write in saying they have stopped using the suppositories, as per doctor instructions, and then begin getting a discharge, or miscarriage. I did suggest to one woman she shaved off an 1/8th from each suppository. This would reduce the amount by 25mg for a 200mg supp. I don't believe it should be reduced by more than this in any one day, but I do err on the side of caution. I've not heard back yet if this is working for her. I also suggested she save the cut off bits to use later. You could try the 50mg per reduction and see if this works. If you do notice a discharge, please increase back to where you were. I always suggest staying on the reduced amount till stable, before reducing further. Progesterone levels begin falling after about 13 hrs, so it's better to use it a minimum of twice daily to keep levels up. In women who are still ovulating, progesterone is released in spurts throughout the day, certainly not once a day. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page. Please let me know if the 50mg reduction was fine, as I would like to be able to advise others. Take care Wray
Feb 21, 2012
 progesteron
by: maria

hi i was givin progesterone wen i was almost 7 weeks pregnant and i stared spoting dark brown nd i wanted to see if thatz normal because im worried
Feb 22, 2012
 progesteron
by: Wray

Hi Maria I think you should speak to your doctor. The brown spotting is normally a sign progesterone levels are dropping. I would appear you need to use more. Take care Wray
Feb 23, 2012
 Cyclogest 400x 2x daily
by: Anna

Hello
I suffered a missed miscarriage in my first pregnancy last year (embryo measured 7 weeks). At the time I saw an ob-gyn who prescribed Cyclogest 400mg twice a day (rectally) for next time. I am now pregnant and I started taking them just 2 days ago at 4 weeks + 1 day. I wanted to look for more in-depth information on progesterone because in just those 2 days I noticed small improvements in the subtle pregnancy symptoms I had (sudden, unusual spotting on my face and being tired) as well as my body feeling more 'quiet' (what I interpreted as 'less pregnant"). I ignorantly assumed that pregnancy symptoms would worsen with progesterone! Well, thanks to your wonderful website now I understand things a bit better. I am very pleased to be on progesterone but my question is whether at 800mg per day the dose is perhaps too high? Tapering it off will not be easy either but I'll worry about that in 8 weeks' time - now I just hope all goes well with this pregnancy. I will also ask for Vit D test as there is some history of low vit D in my family. Thank you and regards, Anna
Feb 23, 2012
 Large drop in Progesterone
by: Anonymous

I am a little concerned, I have had two chemical pregnancies and a missed miscarriage at 6.5 weeks in the last year and and now am currently 6.5 weeks pregnant. At 4.5 weeks my progesterone level was at 49. I had an ultrasound that resulted in a 6.5 week embryo with a 1 cm subchorionic bleed and good fetal cardic activity. I however had my progesterone checked due to my history, and it had dropped to 15.4 from 49 two weeks prior. HCG was 36,174. I was only given 100mg prometrium at bedtime (to be inserted vaginally) I am concerned that this is not an adequate amount. I have had no spotting, I have had mild cramping. Any Advice or thoughts would be appreciated!
Feb 23, 2012
 Side effects of Progesterone
by: Anonymous

I've been taking progesterone now since my last ovulation.. vaginally. 200 mg/night. My question is.. what are the side effects of taking progesterone? Is cramping one of them?
Feb 25, 2012
 Cyclogest 400x 2x daily
by: Wray

Hi Anna I'm delighted you've been given such a high amount. All too often women are given 100mg, maybe 200mg, it's not worth the risk if miscarriages have occurred. Dr Dalton would also use 800mg/day for her patients with problems. You might like to read what she has to say about pregnancy here. I'm so pleased the web site helped to straighten things out, bless you for the kind words! No one should suffer any adverse symptoms when pregnant, they are invariably caused by low progesterone levels. This only stimulates oestrogen all the more. But it's only because you were given such a high amount, this stops any Oestrogen Dominance dominance symptoms from ever occurring. It's something I struggle to get across to women, who've all been advised to use such low amounts they suffer horribly, then blame progesterone! Progesterone does calm us down, plus it keeps the uterus 'quiet' too, hence feeling 'less pregnant'. I see you've read about tapering off slowly, it is difficult with suppositories. Incidentally they can be used in the vagina too, best at night as they tend to leak if used in the morning. Please look into the vitamin D, it's so critical. A new paper has just been published, which gives credence to the minimum level of 50ng/ml that specialists have urged us all to aim for, see here and here. Take care Wray
Feb 25, 2012
 Large drop in Progesterone
by: Wray

Hi there As I said to Anna above, who's been given 800mg/day, 100mg/day is not sufficient. The minimum given to women with problems is 200mg/day. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page. There are plenty of papers you can read, or print out if you need to convince your doctors. Progesterone should be used a minimum of twice a day too. Take care Wray
Feb 25, 2012
 Side effects of Progesterone
by: Wray

Hi there Cramping is a sign of Oestrogen Dominance. When first using progesterone it stimulates oestrogen, which being an excitatory, inflammatory hormone is implicated in the cramping. The symptoms should pass with time, but if not it's evident you need to use more. It's also best to use it a minimum of twice a day, please see our page on How to use progesterone cream for more info. Take care Wray
Feb 28, 2012
 Excessive progesterone shot
by: Kelly

Dear Wray,

I was told by my doc to take utrogestan 50mg*2 2times a day and progesterone 50*2 alternate day.
I did a stupid thing today,i went for another shot even yesterday i had already. Is it too much?I did that cos fetal HR dropping from 128 to 80 yesterday.
So i thought it might be the dose too low. My last blood test was 21/02 283.2 n/mol

I been worried about it, does the extra shot done today will
Cause side effect?
Hope to hear from you soon.
Thanks!
Feb 28, 2012
 Excessive progesterone shot
by: Wray

Hi Kelly I'm a bit confused as Utrogestan is progesterone, so I don't understand what you mean by taking the Utrogestan and the progesterone. This means you were getting 200mg/day. But as Utrogestan is oral progesterone not much of this getting into the circulation, as it gets destroyed in the gut and liver. Oral progesterone is the least effective Delivery system. By shot do you mean an injection? Either way 100 plus mg which is what you're getting, not the full 200mg/day, is not too much. If there are problems with a pregnancy amounts between 200-600mg/day are given. We do have a page on Pregnancy which gives more info. Take care Wray
Feb 29, 2012
 IVF#1 - Hypogonadotropic Hypopituitarism - 400mgx4 Cyclogest
by: SarahAK

Dear Wray,

I have Hypogonadotrophic Hypopituitarism, low ovarian reserve and a slightly atrophied uterus (4.5cm long).

I've had 2 failed IUIs, this February was my 1st IVF, they were able to find 5 eggs but only one was mature and fertilised. They did a day 3 transfer.

For my IUI#1 I was on Duphaston 10mg twice daily.
For IUI#2 I was on cyclogest 400mg rectally thrice a day.
For my IVF my doc put me on 400mg Cyclogest four times daily with additional Duphaston 10mg twice a day.

My question is, that with HRT and with my first IUI I bled exactly 14 days after ovulation. For IVF my egg collection was on the 20th, according to which in case of no implantation I should start to bleed on the 5th of March. I know progesterone delays menstruation, but I don't want to get too hopeful before my beta which has been scheduled for the 12th of March. So can I start to bleed before the 12th of March, while on Cyclogest 400mgx4, in case I'm not pregnant?

Thank you!
Mar 01, 2012
 VF#1 - Hypogonadotropic Hypopituitarism - 400mgx4 Cyclogest
by: Wray

Hi SarahAK I see your doctor is taking no chances! 1600mg/day progesterone is very high, but not too high. I've found amounts of 400mg/day and up can stop bleeding, so there's every chance you won't on such a high amount. Although you were given 1200mg/day for your second IUI, and presumably bled then? Why give you Duphaston after such an expensive procedure and no progesterone is beyond me. Duphaston contains dydrogesterone, a synthetic progestin. But because it's a progestin, it's not broken down into the normal progesterone metabolites, these are as important as progesterone itself. For more info on progestins see here.
(Scroll down to the second link on Google to see the full pdf paper). There is a section on dydrogesterone and it's metabolites, which bear no relation to progesterone metabolites. I would also suggest you use the cyclogest vaginally, or at least at night, as it can leak during the day. The vagina has an abundance of blood vessels, and studies have found the progesterone travels within a few minutes to the uterus where needed. It would take slightly longer rectally. We do have a page on Pregnancy with more info and many studies you can read. I don't know much about the HH you suffer from, but one thing I do know and that's LH and FSH are low, and that ovulation rarely, if ever occurs. They never think of giving progesterone prior to IUI or IVF. And usually give gonadotropin stimulators. And yet it appears that it's progesterone that actually initiates the LH surge, which in turn stimulates ovulation, see here, here, here and here. Possibly with low LH it would not have much if any effect, but I would have thought worth a try. Take care Wray
Mar 02, 2012
 Never tested but put on 100mg progesterone per day
by: Anonymous

Hello. I recently had an mc at 7 weeks in January, from the tests I learned that it was a natural mc and most likely a chromosome defect. Im pregnant again, about 6 weeks and have been on progesterone since week 4. Without testing my progesterone levels my Dr has put me on 100 mg vag supp. Per day. Ever since I started I have been terribly sick, dizzy, tired and have lower abdominal pain so bad at night that I can't sleep. I called my Dr and asked if I had to continue as she told me there was no evidence it helped and from what I understand my mc wasn't due to low progesterone. She left it up to me. I stopped taking the progesterone 2 days ago and for the first time woke up feeling ok. Now
I'm terrified. I don't believe in over medicating and I don't believe I needed the progesterone. Will my stopping cause another mc? If I start to spot, will starting them again help?
Mar 02, 2012
 Ovulation
by: Anonymous

Dear Wray,

Does ovulation occur on the same day every month or can it vary? and can a late ovulation indicate a problem?

thanks
Mar 03, 2012
 Never tested but put on 100mg progesterone per day
by: Wray

Hi there Was the chromosomal defect actually checked, or was it a thumb suck diagnosis? Low progesterone is often the cause of miscarriages. The minimum amount given for miscarriages is 200mg/day, up to 600mg/day. Although one woman has just written in saying she's being given 1600mg/day, evidently her doctor is taking no chances. The reason you felt sick etc, was the low amount of progesterone you were given. It stimulates oestrogen, which is the cause of the symptoms. An explanation of this can be found our our page Oestrogen Dominance. It's essential to use enough progesterone to prevent this occurring. You would feel ok once you'd stopped the progesterone, as it's no longer stimulating oestrogen. You appear to have too much of this. It's also essential to start progesterone prior to conception, so that the oestrogen dominance effect is dealt with while not pregnant. Although if enough is given, this doesn't normally occur. We do have a page on Pregnancy which gives a fuller explanation. Please have a vitamin D test done, it's also essential for a successful pregnancy, see here, here, here, here, here, here and here. Continued below.
Mar 03, 2012
 Never tested but put on 100mg progesterone per day Part 2
by: Wray

Hi there These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. Too low a level is implicated in miscariages, see here, here and here. For more info on vitamin D levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. The drop in progesterone could cause a miscarriage. If you do start spotting you could try adding it back again, but it must be sufficient. I don't know whether this will save the pregnancy. Take care Wray
Mar 03, 2012
 Ovulation
by: Wray

Hi there Ovulation should occur on the same day every cycle, but often it doesn't occur at all. All women ovulate, irrespective of the cycle length, 12-14 days before bleeding. The length varies enormously in women, ranging from 21 days to 35 days, which makes 28 days the average. Depending on the length of your cycle, deduct 12-14 days from when you bleed, and that will give you an idea of when you should ovulate. We do have more info on our page How to use progesterone cream. Take care Wray
Mar 05, 2012
 Cyclogest 400mg 2x daily
by: Anna

Hi Wray, many thanks for your reply to my previous question, I felt reassured.

I try to take my cyclogest 12 hours apart. However, yesterday it was 13.5 hours and I am now a little worried. In your experience, what is a 'safe' interval between doses? Many thanks and kind regards,
Mar 05, 2012
 Ovulation
by: Anonymous

I see... I have been using these ovulation kits. Last month I got an LH surge on day 14 and this month on day 17. Do you think there is a great discrepency? At the moment I am on metformin and taking progesterone pessaries due to brown discharge occuring at around 7 DPO.

Thanks
Mar 05, 2012
 Cyclogest 400mg 2x daily
by: Wray

Hi Anna Please don't worry, the high amount you're using will ensure the drop is minimal. It was really meant to emphasise to women who are told to use progesterone once a day, that it should be used at least twice. When pregnant the drop can be critical to sustaining the pregnancy. Some have missed a day or two and had a miscarriage. Take care Wray
Mar 07, 2012
 Spotting
by: Anonymous

Hi!
I've had a MMC at 9 weeks and I MC at 6 weeks and am now 6 weeks pregnant again. I woke up Monday morning to brown discharge so I went to my doctors and practically begged for progesterone suppositories. He gave me a 15 day supply of 400mg. The first day I took 2x400mg, the 2nd just one 400mg but I woke up to spotting this morning! So today I have used 2x400mg already because I was so worried - I have no more spotting and my cervix remains unreachable as always.
So my question is should I stick to 2x400mg a day and ask my doctor for more? And because I've taken the 800mg already today - its 1.15pm, will I be ok tonight until tomorrow morning?
Thanks :)
Mar 07, 2012
 progesterone stopped at 11 weeks
by: Anonymous

Hi Wray,
I am 11 weeks pregnant with twins and was taking 1mg progesterone in oil for 12 weeks - 1 week prior to IVF transfer. My ob/gyn and also my reproductive specialist told me to stop the progesterone because the fetus are now producing the progesterone. We heard the healthy heartbeats last week. I am sooo worried after reading your posts. I also asked 2 of the nurses and they also said that its perfectly find to stop - they said they usually stop the progesterone at 10 weeks. Please let me know because i do have some vaginal suppositories but all 4 of the professionals said its perfectly fine to stop. They also told me to stop reading posts on the internet. Anxiously awaiting your reply.
Mar 09, 2012
 progesterone injections
by: Anonymous

Hello,

I spotted at weeek 4 of my preg and started bleeding from week 5, I bleed for 5 days with cloths so my Dr, gave me progestrone injection then the bleeding increased with more clots.
I had a miscarrriage 3 days after.
My Doctor adviced that when next I take-in he would want to start me with progestrone immidiately.
Please advice I'm scared and don't want any mistakes.

Thanks a lot.
Mar 09, 2012
 Surrogate question
by: Wendybeth77

Hello!

I am a gestational surrogate for a couple. I had a transfer at the beginning of February which we were told didn't take per a blood test 2 weeks later. I stopped taking all meds per the protocol that day. I would have expected to get a really heavy bleed once off the progesterone and estrogen but it only lasted a couple days and was only red for a day and then brownish. I've noticed that I am constantly hungry lately over the past couple of weeks and I CAN NOT for the life of me stay up past 9:30 which is SO not like me. I am a night owl, up till 12:00-1:00 each night. I know the easiest thing to do would be to take a home test but I am wondering if it is possible that my own body took over making progesterone for the donor eggs and maybe I am pregnant with late implantation?

Any knowledge or advice would be greatly appreciated.
Mar 09, 2012
 Progesterone and HPT test results
by: Anonymous

Hi, DH and I had a M/C after first time TTC in 01/2012, we tried again on 02/2012 I tested positive on a hpt 15 days after ovulation. I went to the hospital with appendix pain and learned I have very low progesterone (average being 32.6-140 in first tri) and mine was 33.6. So I saw my Doctor after and asked for progesterone as I was afraid of m/c again. She prescribed me 200mg of promethium progesterone suppositories, and I was supposed to use twice daily. I started on Monday, and only used 200mg until I realized thursday am I was supposed to be on 400mg, at this point I started 400mg per day and have been doing that for two days. I no longer felt pregnant today, my boobs aren't sore and I took a hpt this am and it was negative. So I took three more and they were negative. I can't get an apt with my doc for almost a week.
Is there any way the progesterone could affect my hpt and I may still be pregnant? Or have I miscarried again and the progesterone is keeping it from passing? Thanks for any help.
Mar 10, 2012
 Spotting
by: Wray

Hi there What a brilliant move on your part, but to have to beg your doctor for progesterone is very sad. It's an extraordinary thing, but not until a woman has 3 miscarriages do they consider giving progesterone. 800mg/day is a very good amount, you shouldn't need to increase it further. If he will give you more stick to that for at least a month. It's best to stay on progesterone for 3-4 months, until the sensitive time is past. If he won't then you could begin reducing, which is difficult with suppositories. The reduction must be done slowly, so easy with a cream, it gives me headaches trying to work out for suppositories! I usually suggest shaving off 1/8th of a 200mg suppository, 1/16th will be very difficult off a 400mg suppository. The idea is to stay on each reduction for a few days, before reducing further. If any signs of spotting should occur, it would be essential to increase back to the previous amount. The bits you cut off should be kept and used when enough has accumulated. Progesterone only begins dropping after about 13hrs, so if used twice a day, you'll be fine until the next day. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page. Take care Wray
Mar 10, 2012
 progesterone stopped at 11 weeks
by: Wray

Hi there I would agree with the sentiments about looking at internet posts, most of which have no back up. It's essential to read the studies done. One thing I cannot agree with is stopping the progesterone cold turkey, this can cause a miscarriage. It should always be tapered off gradually. But you say you have only been using 1mg progesterone, this will have contributed nothing to your own production. It needs to be a minimum of 100-200mg/day to have any significant effect. I'm rather surprised you were only given 1mg progesterone, as normally after IVF women are given suppositories ranging from 200-600mg/day. So I don't think you need have any concerns about stopping it, but if you wish to continue do so, no harm will come of that. The problem with using the suppositories is the high amount they will give you, because stopping those suddenly is too risky. And then do you have enough to continue with them, you might find it hard to get more. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page, which has plenty of papers you could read. Take care Wray
Mar 10, 2012
 progesterone injections
by: Wray

Hi there It's essential to start progesterone before conception, not after one is pregnant. This avoids an unnecessary miscarriage. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page. Take care Wray
Mar 10, 2012
 Surrogate question
by: Wray

Hi Wendybeth77 I have no knowledge at all of surrogate mothers, maybe you are pregnant after all. But it seems likely the oestrogen they gave you has upset the balance, as it can cause constant hunger. To rule out pregnancy, I suggest you have another test done, home test kits are not that reliable, it's best done via a lab. Do you know what oestrogen they gave you, was it oestriol the pregnancy oestrogen, or oestradiol? And was it progesterone, or one of the synthetic analogues they favour instead of the natural? I really admire you for doing this, but please look into the meds they gave. Did you have any others to prime your body first. Why I ask this is a friend of mine was a surrogate mother, all went well with the pregnancy, but she's now been taking seizure meds for over 20 years. She believes it was the drugs given to her which caused it, please look into them. Take care Wray
Mar 10, 2012
 Progesterone and HPT test results
by: Wray

Hi there Women are lead to believe pregnancy symptoms are normal. If enough progesterone is secreted there should be none. If a low level is secreted symptoms can be severe, leading to hyperemesis in some cases. The high amount of progesterone you're using would stop these Oestrogen Dominance symptoms, which is why your breasts are no longer sore. I suggest you ask your doctor to do a pregnancy test when you see her, as home test kits are not that reliable. Although 400mg/day can stop bleeding, you haven't been on it long enough to have much effect. We do have a page on Pregnancy you can look through. Take care Wray
Mar 13, 2012
 Insemination
by: Anonymous

Why Dr prescribe Suggest 200mg after an Artificial insemination? Is it better to take it orally or like ovule?
Mar 13, 2012
 Can taking progesterone for too long prolong pregancy?
by: Clare

Hello - curious rather than concerned. I was taking 400mg per day (or do I mean microgramms - 400 anyway), Cyclogest from 3 months pregnant for a weak cervix. Seems it did a great job - I am now 41 weeks pregnant with no signs of labour. In fact my midwife just failed to do a membrane sweep due to my cervix being so tightly shut.
I was told to stop taking Cyclogest at 34 weeks but carried on until 35 weeks as I was still working and was keen for a couple of days rest ... is it possible that taking Cyclogest so late is contributing to me being overdue?
Mar 14, 2012
 Insemination
by: Wray

Hi there we do have a page on Pregnancy which will answer your question. And our page on Delivery systems which explains the difference between oral or vaginal progesterone. Take care Wray
Mar 14, 2012
 Can taking progesterone for too long prolong pregancy?
by: Wray

Hi Clare You do mean mg! We make up to 420mg/day in the third trimester, see our page on Hormone Testing. I'm delighted you were given it and a good amount too. Stopping the Cyclogest 6 weeks ago would be more than enough time for any progesterone it was supplying to have 'worn' off. In fact Dr Dalton used Cyclogest and would keep her patients on it for the entire pregnancy. This page might interest you here. So I see no reason why the natural cycle of events won't result in labour soon. Please let me know, and I wish you many blessings. take care Wray
Mar 14, 2012
 Spotting -update
by: Anonymous

Hi thanks for your reply RE Spotting.
My doctor has agreed to the 2x400mg a day which is great news and for as long as I would like!
I did carry on spotting that week but a ultrasound put me at just 6 weeks and a heartbeat was seen :)
I am now using them rectally but i do still have lingering nausea all day and sore boobs. Does this suggest that my own personal progesterone supply is actually low as I still have these symptoms even though I am taking a pretty high dose of supplements?
Thanks Natasha :)
Mar 17, 2012
 High risk Pregnancy on injections
by: Nanonda

Hi, I have found this forum very informative and it seems like some very knowledgeable responses. Thank you for the links to Pregnancy! May I just explain my situation and if you have any suggestions, by all means, please feel free! This is my 5th pregnancy, 1st miscarriage, 2nd delivered preterm at 23 weeks and she died soon after, 3rd emergent cerclage at 20 weeks and delivered at 32 weeks and now healthy 7 year old, 4th prophylactic cerclage, weekly 250mg 17p injections from 16-36 weeks (with many visits to the hospital with contractions) and delivered at 37 weeks and now healthy 3 year old. This last summer I was diagnosed with secondary adrenal insufficiency and have felt so much better we thought we would try pregnancy again. With a prophylactic cerclage, and weekly 250mg injections again we were hoping things would be better than they are. In some ways the pregnancy has been better, no spotting, much less vomiting and no extreme weight loss, but I still have a very irritable uterus and lots of cervical pressure. I am now 20 weeks and have already been in the hospital 3-4 times with tightening and pressure that did not go away with rest. If I have to, I will stay on full bed rest to get this baby (who is a boy!) here at a good time, but I feel like if my injections were at a higher dose I would have less irritability. The injection also does not last the whole week, which also happened the last pregnancy, and I have been supplementing with the suppositories on the last 2 nights before my next shot is due. One thing I want to mention as well is that I have very few side effects from the injections and feel miserable with the suppositories. So ideally, I would like to just have a higher dose of the injection. From my limited research it seems that it is not common to increase the injection dose over 250mg in the second and third trimesters. What suggestions do you have and any good references would be greatly appreciated!
Mar 18, 2012
 Spotting -update
by: Wray

Hi Natasha I'm so delighted he agreed to the 2 x 400mg and for as long as you like! Amazing man, don't loose him! The symptoms you have now, plus the spotting, show progesterone, yours and the supplemental as low. But if you continue on that amount they should go. Please have a vitamin D test done, it so vital for a successful Pregnancy, see here, here, here, here, here, here and here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. For more info on vitamin D levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Mar 18, 2012
 Should mention...
by: Nanonda

Hi, I just thought to mention that since my diagnosis (secondary adrenal insufficiency) last summer I take daily, oral hydrocortisone. Thanks...
Mar 18, 2012
 High risk Pregnancy on injections
by: Wray

Hi Nanonda It's interesting you feel unwell on the suppositories. I can only assume you are getting Oestrogen Dominance from them, which indicates they are working better than the injections. And giving you far more progesterone. This might sound contrary, but evidently you are getting the full benefit of the progesterone, particularly if used in the vagina. You don't mention their strength, usually they contain 100mg or 200mg progesterone. To my mind you are getting far too low a dose from the injections, 250mg once a week amounts to no more than 38mg/day. Even with no pregnancy, I recommend 100-200mg/day. Normally amounts given to prevent miscarriages range from 200mg to 600mg/day. As you can see from Natasha above, she's been given 800mg/day, another woman wrote in saying her doctor was giving her 1600mg/day! Apart from suppositories and injections, the only other option I can suggest is a cream. But I feel you will also get oestrogen dominance from this too, as the progesterone is absorbed very well. If you do try one, please make sure you use sufficient, at least 200mg/day, as the injections are barely doing anything. One study found that using 40mg/day "…. only low plasma progesterone levels were found (median 2.5 nmol/l)". The ranges for the luteal phase are 15.9 - 63.6 nmol/L (5 to 20 ng/ml), see here. So the injections are not even raising your progesterone to luteal phase levels. Progesterone levels begin dropping after about 13 hrs, so I'm not surprised they don't last the whole week. The only other suggestion I can make is having the injections daily, not a pleasant thought! You might like to read through our page on Pregnancy. Please have a vitamin D test done. I've given Natasha info on testing, and the papers, please read through them, and watch the videos too, they are excellent. Take care Wray
Mar 20, 2012
 Just want to be a mommy...
by: HWeaver

I have just finished my 10 days on progesterone pills due to irregular periods. I have been on tow rounds of Clomid and one other cycle of progesterone pills before this round. With all other rounds of medication, my levels still show that I have not ovulated. At this point i am waiting for my period to start so I can start my third round, first round of 150 mg, of Clomid. My last period started jan 17 and I have not had one since. I have taken OPT's which said I was negative before taking the progesterone pills but i was wondering what would happen if I was pregnant and taking these progesterone pills? My body has not been the same since stopping birth control last July... I just want to be a mommy!
Mar 21, 2012
 Just want to be a mommy...
by: Wray

Hi there Please check to see if the pills you are taking are progesterone, and not a progestin ie a Contraceptive. All drug based contraceptives have the potential to cause harm. It can take a great deal of time to heal after being on contraceptives, so please be patient, rather than forcing your body to ovulate. If the pill is progesterone, oral is the least effective Delivery system. If the pill is progesterone is won't harm the foetus, if a progestin it has the potential to. Anovulation is often caused by nothing more than a lack of progesterone and vitamin D, has anyone checked your levels? We have more info on our Menstruation page. Has anyone checked for PCOS? As this causes both irregular cycles and anovulation. I know you want to become pregnant, but please consider using the nutrients to heal first, rather than drugs to force you to ovulate. Ovulation induction drugs have adverse side effects, see here, here and here. Please have a vitamin D test done. vitamin D is vital for ovulation, conception a successful pregnancy and the growth of the foetus, see here, here, here, here, here, here and here. Continued below.
Mar 21, 2012
 Just want to be a mommy... Part 2
by: Wray

Hi there These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here. For more info on vitamin D levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Mar 22, 2012
 Third time lucky
by: Anonymous

Hello Wray,

I am currently 6+0 weeks prg. I started spotting -brown discharge 6 day ago that stopped and then spotting yesterday. I am now on a 400mg vaginal pessary once a day which reading your replies is not the best since levels start to drop off after about 13hrs. I have also had pink/red blood and very strong cramping since starting them yesterday compared to brown discharge (and cramping) before. My sore boobs however have gone.
I am also on 75mg of aspirin (despite no clotting issues being found), take Pregnacare and a total of 800iu of D3.

My question is are there any circumstances for which me increasing to 2x 400mg per day could be unsafe for the baby? Do you think I have not given 400mg a day long enough and should maybe move to 2 x 200mg per day? I have had 2 previous mc -one at 9 weeks and one at 5 weeks. I have a lovely 2 yr old who I had no problems with although I do remember when she was scanned they commented that the blood flow to the uterus was not as high as it should be. Didn't seem to do her any harm though since she is a little genius!

Thank you for your help.
Mar 24, 2012
 Third time lucky
by: Wray

Hi there I would always recommend using progesterone twice a day, so to my mind 2 x 200mg/day would be better. 2 x 400mg is fine too, there's no harm to that. In fact one woman wrote in recently saying her doctor had given her 1600mg/day via suppositories! It's an unfortunate fact, but it's not until we've had 3 miscarriages that progesterone is thought about. And then it's given too late I feel. It should be started before pregnancy, this allows time for the body to adjust to the higher level, and symptoms such as you're experiencing now don't occur. We do have a page on Pregnancy you might like to read through. The lack of blood flow is a sign progesterone was too low, it evidently wasn't sufficiently low to cause a miscarriage with your daughter. This was probably what occurred in the two miscarriages you had. For now I suggest you cut the suppository in half and use it twice a day, until you can get more. Progesterone is an anti-coagulant, so I don't understand why you've been given aspirin, see here. Particularly as you have no clotting issues. Take care Wray
Mar 25, 2012
 nervous!
by: Anonymous

Wray,
I read some of the posts about progesterone suppositories and I am now nervous. I a 7 weeks and a check of my levels showed my progesterone at 13.5. This concerned my Dr and he prescribed me 50 mg suppository at bedtime until 20 weeks. You mention that if not on it before falling pregnant Mau cause miscarriage which I am obviously trying to prevent and also a once daily dose it will drop after 13. Hours. Can this also cause miscarriage? Don't know if I should take them now, I'm nervous!
Mar 26, 2012
 Is progesterone supplement really necessary?
by: Anonymous

I am 6wks pregnant and had a spontaneous pregnancy (natural). My ivf doctor followed me until 6weeks. They did labs and 2ultrasounds. My progesterone was 14.5 on my first beta test. He is now releasing me to my regular gyn and does not recommend any progesterone supplement. My obgyn is insisting on prescribing progesterone supplements ( because of my age factor 42). I feel uncomfortable in taking if it is not necessary. Will it do me more harm than good? especially if my level is normal?
Still debating to pick up from pharmacy.my first visit with obgyn is next week
Mar 27, 2012
 Pregnancy while having Mirena
by: LT

Hello, Sorry for my poor English. I live outside USA, so English is not my mother-tongue :)
I had a Mirena placed at late November 2011. Ultrasounds showed that it was placed well.
To make thing short: I've got pregnant in February. My ginecologist didn't succeed to get Mirena out. After doing more ultrasound tests with two different specialists: no one is sure if it is in or out.
I was checked by proffessor (who has very high reputation and I know him for several years and trust his opinion). He says that it might happen that Mirena has gone out of vomb but not completely. He suspects that it is half-out (all this is very surreal for me). No one can tell what end of Mirena is out (I mean no one knows if it still secrete Progesteron into the vomb) .
We planned to have more children, so I'm not against the idea of pregnance.
Hence no one wants to perform laporascopy test to discover what is going on.
Now, suppose the Mirena is still in (half or complete) and it secretes the Progesterone into the vomb.
I know there is a risk of miscarriage. And there is nothing I can do about.
The question is: can these dose of Progesteron harm the embryo? Are there statistics or researches on that?
And here comes the stupid question from woman with hormons: say the embryo will be boy,
can Progesteron influence him and his hormon levels as to even change the "orientation"
Sorry for that last question, but I can't help thinking of that.
Please make some order in my situation. Of course I'm observed by ginecologists and he is
checking relevant information for me right now.

THanks in advance
Mar 29, 2012
 nervous!
by: Wray

Hi there I don't say you will get a miscarriage if not on it before falling pregnant. I do say it's better to start it beforehand, then any Oestrogen Dominance that might be experienced, will be over and done with before falling pregnant. Your level is slightly low, it should be between 11.2 - 90.0 ng/ml during the first trimester, and 25.6 - 89.4 ng/ml during the second. We have a page on Hormone Testing which gives all the levels of the hormones involved in pregnancy. I'm glad your doctor thought of the progesterone suppositories, but to my mind too low an amount. See if it increases your level, if not I suggest you ask him for a higher amount. W do have a page onPregnancy you might like to look through. You are producing some of your own, so this might take care of the drop. Otherwise cut it in half and use it twice a day. Take care Wray
Mar 29, 2012
 Is progesterone supplement really necessary?
by: Wray

Hi there Your progesterone level falls within the range for the first trimester, this is between 11.2 - 90.0 ng/ml. We do have a page on Hormone Testing which shows all the levels. Plus a page on Pregnancy, and this one here too. I'm inclined to agree with the obgyn. Progesterone is vital for a successful pregnancy, it cannot do harm. The higher the level the less likelihood of anything going amiss. Take care Wray
Mar 29, 2012
 Pregnancy while having Mirena
by: Wray

Hi LT I really feel they should try harder to find the Mirena. It does not release progesterone but a progestin called levonorgestrel. This has been shown to lower progesterone levels, plus impeding the blood flow in the uterine arteries, see here. A good blood flow is critical for the health of the foetus. This is another paper here. Levonorgestrel is derived from testosterone, so has androgenic properties, this can affect a female foetus adversely. It can increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy too. This is the prescribing information here, and please see here too. Your question is not stupid, progesterone, not levonorgestrel, is vital for a successful pregnancy, it does not affect the sex of the child. Interestingly a high level of progesterone is found in the brain of male foetus's, they believe this is necessary for the full development of the male. We do have a page on Pregnancy, and please see this page here too. You might like to read these comments here from women who've used the Mirena. Take care Wray
Mar 31, 2012
 2 angel babies, 10mnth old son, 4wks preg
by: gavins mom

I fell preg 2x in 06 and lost both one at 6wks the other at 13wks. Well I fell preg oct 2010 found out at 6wks got to the dr he perscribed prometrium 200mg 1x vaginally well I am happy to say june 11 2011 I had a 6lb 13oz baby boy. I am currently 4wks preg my progesterone is 9.6 so I am on 200mg 1x vaginally I will find out in 2days if its going up enough. Luckily no cramps or bleeding so we are praying for miracle num 2. I give all prayers to everyone trying and trust ur dr I did!!
Apr 03, 2012
 very scared for my baby
by: Reyna Camacho

ive had 2 misscariges and know iam pregnant 5w6days today iam using progesterone vaginaly but last night that i showered i was washing my vagina and as i was doing that i felt a piece like of ruber and as i was cleaning my vagine more pieces of like caogulated white stuff was coming out ?could that be the cream that coagulated ? is this normal very woried but i have not have bleeding or nothing like pain but just very concerned?
Apr 04, 2012
 Switching to Progestin after Progesterone in pregnancy
by: Vicky

My wife is pregnant and I am confused as to why the doctor has put her progestin (Duphaston) after giving her progesterone for 18 weeks.
Shouldn't she be continuing with Progesterone, if reqired.
Apr 05, 2012
 Update -Spotting
by: Natasha

Hi Wray - I wrote to you previously about spotting that I'd been having and that I am taking 2x400mg a day.
I'm now 10 weeks and after having a private scan today (much better quality) the tech said id had some spotting because there is a bleed showing but away from the sac and baby is doing great. She said it was old implantation blood.
So now I know that there is a reason could I start reducing the progesterone? When is advisable to start and what kind of time frame? Im hoping some of this bloat and weight gain (hope its water) will reduce after!
Thanks :)
Apr 05, 2012
 Progesterone before you start TTC??? help!
by: Mari

first of all thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. I few months ago I had my a m/c, it was the first time I was pregnant too. I know that my progesterone was extremely low and I'm not sure if this had anything to do with having 7 fibroids (from 3 cm to 7 cm.) My doctor gave me large dosis of progesterone suppositories but I guess that it didn't work. She told me that most likely I had low progesterone becaue there was some abnormalities with the baby. But I think I have read in the past that there may be a correlation between fibroids and low progesterone because of the estrogen dominace. Today, I went to see her because we would like to try to get pregnant again and I asked her if I should start taking progesterone before we get pregnant and she said no because that would prevent me from getting pregnant. I'm confused and I really don't know what to do or how I can prepare my body for a pregnancy and avoid another m/c if possible. Sometimes I'm not sure if this doctor knows what she is talking about. Thank you so much.
Apr 07, 2012
 very scared for my baby
by: Wray

Hi Reyna It could be a piece of tissue that came away, creams don't coagulate. Or are you using one of the vaginal gels, as they have a bio-adhesive, and that can come away looking like rubber. For more info see our page on Delivery systems. If you have no other symptoms I don't think you should have any concerns. Take care Wray
Apr 07, 2012
 Switching to Progestin after Progesterone in pregnancy
by: Wray

Hi Vicky I'm puzzled too! Duphaston contains dydrogesterone, a synthetic progestin. But because it's a progestin, it's not broken down into the normal progesterone metabolites, these are as important as progesterone itself. In particular allopregnanolone. For more info on progestins see here.
(Scroll down to the second link on Google to see the full pdf article entitled "Classification and pharmacology of progestins"). There is a section on dydrogesterone. Take care Wray
Apr 07, 2012
 Update -Spotting
by: Wray

Hi Natasha I don't think you should start reducing yet, the bloating is not caused by progesterone. The reverse in fact, as it's an excellent diuretic, so good it's now given to Traumatic Brain Injury victims to prevent oedema. 10 weeks is still within the time frame of possibly miscarriages. It is the first three, possibly four months that are critical. 25% of miscarriages occur during the first six weeks when the child is still in the embryo stage. The risk drops to 8% after eight weeks, when the child is now termed a foetus. During this time the placenta is developing and after about two months starts secreting progesterone, while ovarian production starts declining. If at this point placental production is insufficient to meet the demands of the growing foetus a miscarriage can occur. It is therefore advisable to continue with the progesterone until at least the third month. Tapering off is easy to do if using a progesterone cream, difficult if using injections or suppositories. Either switch to a cream, or in the case of suppositories, divide them into 25mg pieces, adjusting the tapering by using as many pieces as required. Take care Wray
Apr 07, 2012
 Progesterone before you start TTC??? help!
by: Wray

Hi Mari Fibroids are caused by oxidative stress, and exacerbated by oestrogen. Evidently the uterine lining was not in a suitable state for the implantation to take place. Please have a vitamin D test done. A low level reduces the benefits of progesterone, plus it's a potent antioxidant, and has been known to reduce fibroids, see here, here, here, here and here. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Vitamin D is also vital for Pregnancy, see here, here, here, here, here, here and here. Continued below.
Apr 07, 2012
 Progesterone before you start TTC??? help! Part 2
by: Wray

Hi Mari And a final one here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here.
Even as far back as 1947 10,000-20,000iu's were suggested, see here. Plus a lack causes miscarriages, see here, here and here. Low levels of progesterone cause miscarriages, but so do high levels of free testosterone, often overlooked. A level of progesterone over 12.3 ng/ml in early pregnancy indicates a normal pregnancy. A ratio of 1.05 or higher for free testosterone to total testosterone indicates a miscarriage is likely. But if the free testosterone ratio is lower than 0.84 a normal pregnancy occurs. A short cervix increases the risk of pre-term births, progesterone reduces the risk. Where either of these checked? It's always advisable to start the progesterone well before pregnancy to allow the body to adjust. Many women are started on progesterone many days, often weeks after they fall pregnant and suffer oestrogen dominance symptoms. It's bad enough suffering from these when first pregnant, but twice?! Take care Wray
Apr 08, 2012
 side effects
by: Anonymous

Was wondering if anyone can help me? I am taking progynova 2mg twice daily and 200mg of progestrone pessaries twice daily, as trying for a baby, but i feel sooo ill on them, feel really sick, my husband says i look really pale and i am very tired and dizzy, not sure if i should carry on with them or it might past, Its Easter weekend so no one to talk to for some reasurrance. Has any one else had simliar side effects??
Apr 09, 2012
 side effects
by: Wray

Hi there I'm not sure why you've been given oestradiol valerate (progynova), are your oestrogen levels low? Are you not producing mature eggs? Are you having IVF treatment? If so one study found adding the oestradiol valerate did not show any benefit, see here. You should have been warned about the Oestrogen Dominance affect when first using progesterone. Although you are using a high amount of progesterone, 400mg/day normal prevents this, but obviously not in your case. Adding extra oestrogen, ie the progynova, would merely make symptoms worse. I would ask your doctor to increase the amount, to overcome it quickly. Or you could use more suppositories until you get to see him. I would suggest trying 600mg/day, ie another suppository and see if that helps. You could also look through our page on Pregnancy, and this page here too. And if you are having IVF treatment, please see this page on Signs of Infertility. Take care Wray
Apr 09, 2012
 thank you
by: Anonymous

Thank you for replying to me, I am 39 years of age, I have had 10 miscarriages,after lots of tests done and i have what you call Sticky Bloody Syndrome, I have to take asprin everyday to thin the blood, My specailist have given me prognova and progestrone cause i have started ovaluting and i when doing tests beforehand they where very low. I am due for a blood test tomorrow to see if my levels have increased, if i am not pregnant i think i come off them and do it all again when i am ovaulating. Is this normal to feel so sick, tired and sweating! i will ring the Clinic tomorrow but i feel awful on them.
Apr 09, 2012
 thank you
by: Wray

Hi there It's the same old story, they never check for the natural things which could be occurring that's causing them. All detailed on the pages I gave you. I can't believe you've had 10 miscarriages! I had five and thought that bad enough. And why oh why the aspirin, you need progesterone and vitamin D, both these prevent coagulation, see here, here, here and here. We have many papers on the pregnancy page on miscarriages, please read through them as it might through some light on it for you. This is one very comprehensive paper here. And these here and here. Vitamin D in particular is needed if you have antiphospholipid syndrome. Please have a test done, it could be your level is very low. Oestrogen causes clotting, so I'm very puzzled you've been given it. Please read the pregnancy page, it explains the use of progesterone well before conception. And yes it is normal to feel sick, if you've not using enough progesterone. This is invariably the case if a high level of oestrogen is present, and you will have a high level if you're taking 4mg/day oestrogen. If you look on the HRT page and the Contraceptives page, you'll notice how high an amount you are taking compared to these. Please have a vitamin D test done, it's vital for ovulation, a successful pregnancy and the growth of the foetus, see here, here, here, here, here and here. here Continued below.
Apr 09, 2012
 thank you Part 2
by: Wray

Hi there And here. These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here.
Even as far back as 1947 10,000-20,000iu's were suggested, see here. A lack of vitamin D reduces the benefits of progesterone and it's implicated in miscarriages, see here, here and here. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Apr 10, 2012
 8 msc
by: Anonymous

hi i'm currently on my 9th pregnancy after 8 miscarraiges the last being triplets i can never make it to the heatbeat stage as soon as i do i miscarry my doctor has told me he's prescribing this in tablet form am i better to get it in a different form thanks xxx
Apr 10, 2012
 please help
by: Anonymous

I am 4 weeks and 2 days pregnant and the doctor called me today to tell me that my progesterone levels are at 11 so he started me on the progesterone pill 100 mg two times a day. I'm so afraid of having a miscarriage. Are my progesterone levels dangerously low or just a little? And will these pills help me???
Apr 12, 2012
 8 msc
by: Wray

Hi there Oral progesterone is the least effective Delivery system. Most of it getting destroyed in the gut and liver. And please make sure it is progesterone. So often the terms progesterone and progestin (synthetic) are used interchangeably. We do have a page on Pregnancy you can look through.
Apr 12, 2012
 please help
by: Wray

Hi there We do have a page on Hormone Testing which gives the levels of the pregnancy hormones. Your level is at the very lowest limit. As I said to the anon comment above, please make sure it is progesterone you're getting. And have a look through the pregnancy page too. Take care Wray
Apr 14, 2012
 to the lady with 8 miscarriages
by: Anonymous

I am currently on a caps. That I take vaginally 1x a day. If u take it oral ur organs take a lot of the important stuff out as with vaginally it gets right on the cervix. Hope this helps
Apr 14, 2012
 to the lady with a progesterone of 11
by: Anonymous

My progesterone was 9.6 dr put me on 100mg vaiginally for the 1st trimester. Said 10 is what they would like to see 4 days later I was at 12 he was good with that but I will continue on the meds till my second trimester. Hope this helps.
Apr 16, 2012
 Need advice
by: De-gifted

I really love al these posts but need advice.i m/c naturally twice before 12wks.i'm on 3rd day menstrating now,when can i start taking progesterone?which method is the best and am i to continue even afta conceiving?also,after the 2nd m/c jan.21st dz 2012,i'm nt really sure i ovulated.can i use clomid since i use it and got prego nov.2011 before m/c jan.2012?
Apr 17, 2012
 Need advice
by: Wray

Hi there I think it's best you read our page on Pregnancy. It explains how to use progesterone. Plus this one here. I would avoid the clomid, see here, here and here. There are many different Delivery systems, the best are injections, suppositories or creams. And yes you should continue the progesterone once pregnant. I'm pleased the website has been of help to you. Take care Wray
Apr 20, 2012
 what to do
by: Anonymous

hello, im 7 weeks pregnant and everything is going fine i think, i have no spotting , no nausea , no headeache , my breast dosent hurt to much but im always hungry . when i was 3 weeks pregnant my progesterone level was at 71 mmol then 7 days later it went down to 51mmol at april 2 and april 12 was 44.5mmol my hcg level keeps rising perfectly tough. should i start progesterone or should i still wait to see if the levels go down some more. my fsh level is at 0.1
thank you in advance
Apr 20, 2012
 what to do
by: Anonymous

hello, im 7 weeks pregnant and everything is going fine i think, i have no spotting , no nausea , no headeache , my breast dosent hurt to much but im always hungry . when i was 3 weeks pregnant my progesterone level was at 71 mmol then 7 days later it went down to 51mmol at april 2 and april 12 was 44.5mmol my hcg level keeps rising perfectly tough. should i start progesterone or should i still wait to see if the levels go down some more. my fsh level is at 0.1
thank you in advance
Apr 21, 2012
 what to do
by: Wray

Hi there Although your progesterone was dropping, it is still within range. The first trimester varies from 35.6 to 286.2 nmol/L. We do have a page on Hormone Testing where you can check your levels. You also say you have no typical symptoms other than hunger, so there's probably nothing to worry about. Has your doctor not said anything to you about the dropping levels? It's now over a week since your last test, has the next one revealed a drop? If so I think you should speak to your doctor about it, unless he says something first. It never harms to use supplemental progesterone if you feel it will help you. We do have info on our Pregnancy page and more here too. Please consider taking vitamin D and taurine, both essential for a successful pregnancy, but more importantly vital for the growth of the foetus. There's info about each on the pregnancy link I've given you. FSH should be very low, if detectable in pregnancy. Your blood sugar is dropping too low, hence the hunger. Please try to avoid eating any carbs, as this will only add on extra weight. You might like to see our page on Nutrition for more info. Take care Wray
Apr 21, 2012
 PROGESTERONE LEVELS
by: Anonymous

thank you for your quick response, well i talked to the doctor and she said to stop testing, that it dosent mean anything wrong and that people dont usually test progesterone levels . i can test easily because of my work im a nurse she also said that if im stressed about it then she will prescribe me 200mg of prometrium vaginally once a day at bedtime. she didnt give an explanation to why progesterone levels can went down from 71 to 44.5 but also said, like you said that its still in a normal range. i wont lie to you im a little bit stressed.
Apr 23, 2012
 PROGESTERONE LEVELS
by: Wray

Hi there Progesterone is normally only checked once a woman has had 3 miscarriages, not before. It could be continual testing is causing you unnecesscary stress, as you watch the levels go up and down. If your doctor has offered the prometrium then accept it, as it will stop you stressing! But it should be used twice a day minimum, as levels drop after about 13 hrs. So you could cut the suppository in half, and use the pieces am and pm. It's best to reduce slowly once you feel less stressed, please see our page on pregnancy on how to do this. Take care Wray
Apr 23, 2012
 Progesterone Oil
by: Anonymous

Hi...I am currently pregnant at 9 weeks 5 days. I got pregnant through IVF. Before the transfer i was put on Estradiol as well as prometrium vaginal suppositories once a day and progesterone oil 1cc once a day. I last saw my fertility doctor last wed and he said I could stop the estradiol and suppositories but to continue the oil for another week. My worry is, is it too soon to stop the oil injections? From things I've read most women continue on till their 2nd trimester. Would I do any harm if I continue the injections till my 12th week? Another reason I'm worried is because I suffer from hypothyroidism, which is being treated with medication, and have always had low levels of estrogen and progesterone. I got pregnant with a donor egg because I had only one follicle on one ovary and after months of trying to produce an egg it was unsuccessful. I don't want to do or not do anything to jeopardize my pregnancy. My first prenatal visit is next week.
Apr 24, 2012
 Progesterone Oil
by: Wray

Hi there I'm not in favour of stopping progesterone early, in fact Dr Dalton would often keep her patients on it for the duration of the Pregnancy. We have another page here too. I don't know how much progesterone is in the 1cc, maybe 50mg? and in the suppository, maybe 100-200mg? Which ever is the higher of the two I would use, suppositories are far less painful too, plus they work as well. There are plenty of papers on the link I've given you. There are more on our Delivery systems page too. Progesterone should always be tapered off slowly. Incidentally it's vital for ovulation, and it could have been nothing more than a low level causing the anovulation. Vitamin D is also vital for ovulation. Please have a vitamin D test done. A lack of this not only reduces the benefits of progesterone, it affects the thyroid badly, see here, here and here. Plus it's vital for the growth of the foetus, see here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here. Continued below.
Apr 24, 2012
 Progesterone Oil part 2
by: Wray

Hi there These are excellent videos to watch too, see here and here.
Even as far back as 1947 10,000-20,000iu's were suggested, see here. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Jun 07, 2012
 Is progesterone neccessary?
by: Anonymous

I am 2 weeks pregnant from conception and my doc had me take a blood test to verify the pregnancy...my progesterone level was 24 so the doc had me re-check the level 4 days later which is now 16. He recommended i start progesterone pills 300mg every night, which I took tonight. i have one child and no history of miscarriages or complications. Is this supplemental progesterone really necessary? Im thinking about just not taking it again, would that cause a miscarriage?
Jun 07, 2012
 Is progesterone neccessary?
by: Wray

Hi there He was obviously worried about the drop in progesterone, as it should increase steadily. Levels during the first trimester should be 11.2 - 90.0 ng/ml, see our page on Hormone Testing. I must add that this is most remarkable, as normally levels are never checked, and women have to have at least 3 miscarriages before anything is done. I would suggest you talk to him before stopping the progesterone, and ask him why he thought it necessary. If you do decide to stop please do so gradually. I'm not sure the amount of progesterone in each pill, but if possible decrease by no more than 25mg per reduction. Stay on that a few days before reducing again. We do have a page on Pregnancy you could look through. Take care Wray
Jun 09, 2012
 Progesterone to try to prevent a 2nd miscarriage
by: Anonymous

I had a miscarriage in Feb of this year. Began cramping at 9 weeks and ultrasound was done to show baby stopped growing at 7 weeks. I had a D&C 2 days later. No levels were ever checked because all my other pregnancies were fine. It has taken me several months but I am pregnant again . The dr wanted to draw blood as soon as I thought I was pregnant so labs done on May 31(HCG 116 and progesterone 6.8) determined I was 3 weeks 4 days by dates. Started progesterone suppositories 100 mg twice a day( 6am and 6 pm) the next day on Friday June 1st. I also had heVy cramping like I was going to have a period at any minute on that Thurs.,Fri. And Sat. also. But by Su day the cramps had stopped and things felt good. On Monday June 4th had levels checked again HCG jumped to 605 but dr did not check again. I am continuing the suppositories and I go on June 15 fir a confirmation ultrasound. My main worry is starting about 2 or 3 days ago I am having severe bloating(I look 3 months pregnant), really bad constipation, lower back pain and pressure, abdominal discomfort (kind of feels like gas pain, pressure and occasional cramping - kind of feels like I need to pass gas but can't - gross I know but only way to describe the feeling) boobs sore and some nausea. The weird thing about the abdominal pain and discomfort is if I am walking or moving around I don't feel it is only when I am
laying down or sitting. Wondering if this is normal or if there is a problem. I have read the pregnancy thing and about oestrogen dominance ... Could these symptoms be this and if so how do you fix it or when should if stop?? I am so worried about another miscarriage. Any advice would be great!
Jun 11, 2012
 Progesterone to try to prevent a 2nd miscarriage
by: Wray

Hi there Oestrogen causes water retention, by drawing water from the gut, hence the constipation. The tissues are swollen with water now, hence the bloating. See here, here, here and here. The Breast Tenderness is also an oestrogen related problem. The nausea too, see here. If it doesn't pass within a few days, I would suggest increasing the amount of progesterone you're using. Please consider having a vitamin D test done, as a lack of this is also implicated in miscarriages, see here, here and here. It's also vital for a successful Pregnancy. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Jul 27, 2012
 Progesterone 100MG SUPP Questions!
by: MNDadof2

Hi! My wife is 5.5 weeks pregnant now with our 2nd child and up until now had been taking Endometrin with no problems but due to complications with insurance we needed to find an alternative for this week and her nurse prescribed her PROGESTERONE 100MG SUPP that she is supposed to take vaginally 3x/day! The Pharmacy did not include directions on how to open the packages or how to use the suppositories! She thought that they would be just the same as the Endometrin so told the Pharmacy she knew how to use them!

Can anyone help us out PLEASE so I can try and help my wife before I leave for work at 5am in the morning (6 hours from now) she usually takes these at 630 each morning then again at 4 and 9pm each night.

ANY HELP GREATLY APPRECIATED!

THANKS!
Jul 31, 2012
 Progesterone 100MG SUPP Questions!
by: Wray

Hi there Endometrin, according to their website, is a vaginal pessary or as some call it a suppository. So you would use those prescribed by her nurse in the same way, just insert them into the vagina. The easiest is by using a finger. Unfortunately the website does not say what excipients are used in the Endometrin. But our page on Delivery systems gives you some idea of what suppositories contain. Your wife might like to read our Pregnancy page too. Take care Wray
Aug 22, 2012
 Maribel
by: Mari

I feel so hopeless. I have 7 fibroids, from 3cm to 7 cm. I had a m/c last year and now I'm pregnant for the second time. On my last m/c my HCG were doubling okay every 3 days but my progesterone kept droping. I was put on prog. suppossitories 400 mg/day and I still m/c. I already wrote an email so I do apologized but this is before deciding to purchase the progesterone cream. This time around my HCG is doubling but not as fast. I have zero symptoms which I don't know if is normal. My progesterone started at 16.1 one week after my missed period and then within a week it drop to 11.1 and 10.1. I'm pretty sure that I suffer from low progesterone, I'm not sure if they are related to my fibroids or not. I'm currently taking prometrium pills twice a day/ 100 mg a day. I'm not sure if this is a viable pregnancy. My doctor does not want to increase my progesterone intake. I wanted ask, could I combine my prometrium pills along with the Naptro cream? How much should I use and how often? I apologized in advance for writing so much. I'm truly desperate and I feel that no one can understand me. I'm currently taking vitamin D and fish oil as you recomended as well.
Aug 24, 2012
 Maribel
by: Wray

Hi Mari I'm amazed the 400mg/day progesterone via suppositories didn't help you, as the range given for recurrent miscarriages is 200-600mg/day, possibly you need more. Unfortunately you're not going to get it via the oral progesterone, this is the least effective Delivery system. Most of it gets destroyed in the gut and liver, so you're getting very little. I suggest you open the caps and empty the contents into a skin cream. Then rub this on your skin, that way you will be getting the full benefit of the progesterone. If you have chromosomal problems this should have been picked up. Please ask your doctor. hCG could be doubling, but as I said to another woman with the same problem, it could be you have an incompetent corpus luteum. So no matter how much hCG you secrete, the CL is not going to respond. In which case you do need supplemental progesterone until the placenta begins secreting it. This occurs in very small quantities from about 8 weeks, increasing over the coming months. It's best to stay on the progesterone for at least 3 months, preferably 4 when the placenta is making sufficient. It could be the Fibroids are preventing the pregnancy from continuing, the embryo needs a healthy uterine lining to embed in. Fibroids are caused by oxidative stress, and large amounts of antioxidants are needed to reverse them, the most important being vitamin D. There's evidence that it can cause them to shrink, see here, here, here, here and here. Please have a test done, it could be your level i every low, in which case you would need a high dose to bring it up. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth and Birmingham Hospital websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml (175-250nmol/L) and not the 30ng/ml (75nmol/L) most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Aug 27, 2012
 Prog. Cream
by: Anonymous

First of all, I want to thank you and this amazing website. I want to thank you for your dedication. I can't find the words to thank you. I wanted to ask you. If you are pregnant and you suffer from low progesterone and you want to use progesterone cream, what is the quantity you have to use? I know that normally, when you use another method it has to be between 100mg to 600 mg. But what about when you use the cream? How do you measure it? I guess I'm just having a little trouble understanding how much cream to use? Thank you again for your time.
Aug 30, 2012
 Prog. Cream
by: Wray

Hi there Bless you for the kind words! Normally suppositories are used for pregnancy, simply because doctors are familiar with it, and not with the cream. Which is a pity, as studies have found it's absorbed as well, and endometrial protection is apparent using one, see our page on Delivery systems. The amount given via suppositories is between 200-600mg/day, so my advice would be to use the same amount. If recurrent miscarriages have occurred due to low progesterone, I wouldn't hesitate to use 600mg/day. But if your pregnancy is proceeding normally, but you've been found to have low progesterone, you wouldn't need this much. I suggest you try the 200mg/day first, if you still find it's low, or you have adverse symptoms, increase it until you feel stable. A kitchen measuring spoon is the easiest way, these come in either tsp or ml. I'm not sure which cream you wish to use, but we do have a chart at the end of our page How to use progesterone cream which shows the mg/ml of progesterone. Take care Wray
Nov 30, 2012
 oestrogen dominance
by: Samantha

Hello, I am 4 weeks and 4 days pregnant. I had my progesterone tested when I was 4 weeks and 1 day pregnant. I follow my periods sharply so I am certain of the dates. My progesterone was 16.68. The doctor suggested 100mg progesterone at bedtime. I am experiencing what you called the etrogen dominance. Both of my breast were really becoming sore now since I have been taking them for 3 days I have no sore breast anymore. Can this phase hurt the baby and did I really need the progesterone? I have two kids and one miscarriage. Would it hurt to taper off them now? I really feel like this is hurting my pregnancy than helping it. I never needed them before, and everything was going great I passed an 500 hcg pee test. Thank you for your time.
Dec 01, 2012
 oestrogen dominance
by: Wray

Hi Samantha Your progesterone was in the normal range for the first trimester, albeit on the low side. But then you were only 4 weeks pregnant. It ranges from 11.2 to 90.0 ng/ml, during those first three months, we do have a page on Hormone Testing you could look through. The miscarriage could possibly have been due to low progesterone, so maybe your doctor was concerned about another one. I'm not sure why you're concerned though, as we make progesterone in increasing amounts while pregnant. I would never recommend oral progesterone though, as it's the least effective Delivery system. Most of it being destroyed by the gut and liver. Suppositories are normally given to women with recurrent miscarriages, although creams are just as effective. Amounts ranging from 200-600mg/day are given. You were getting probably no more than 10mg/day, possibly 20mg. I don't know why doctors are so hooked on the hCG test. It does show one is pregnant, but it's chief purpose it to stimulate the corpus luteum to make progesterone. If the CL is malfunctioning for some reason, no amount of hCG is going to help. Progesterone is vital for maintaining the pregnancy, not hCG. A lack of vitamin D can cause miscarriages too, see here, here and here. We do have a page on Pregnancy you could look through, and another here. They both give more info on progesterone in pregnancy and how to taper off. The videos about vitamin D in pregnancy are worth watching too. Take care Wray
Feb 02, 2013
 Taking natural progesterone while TTC
by: Anonymous

I've been taking natural progesterone cream from ovulation, but I'm a bit scared to stop the cream if I get a BFN pregnancy test, just in case I am pregnant (I've read that some people don't get a positive test until a couple of weeks after the AF was due.) Also my periods can vary in length. What should I do?
Feb 03, 2013
 Successful pregnancy!
by: Natasha

Hi I posted last year about using progesterone suppositories.
Well after 3 miscarriages, I used the suppositories for my 4th pregnancy until I was 14 weeks. I now how a perfectly healthy 15 week old son.
Had I not come across this website, I wouldn't have gone to see my doctor and begged him for the progesterone when I started bleeding.
Thank you :)
Feb 03, 2013
 Taking natural progesterone while TTC
by: Wray

Hi there Please see our page on Pregnancy and this one here too. They explain the use of progesterone during pregnancy. If you're using the typical 20mg/day it's not going to do much if you stop it. It doesn't even raise levels to that found in the luteal phase. I go into this on our page about Progesterone Misconceptions. We also have a page on How to use progesterone cream. Take care Wray
Feb 06, 2013
 Successful pregnancy!
by: Wray

Hi Natasha Bless you for letting me know the good news! I'm so pleased the site helped you. Next time you could try the progesterone cream, as it works just as well, pleasanter too! Take care Wray
Mar 16, 2013
 PROGESTRONE pesseries at 36 weeks
by: mina

Hi I am 36.4 weeks preg with second child.i m on progestrone pesseries since 31 weeks.my fiest child came early at 35.5d. my baby is small so i dont want her to come early. do you think i should continue with pessaries to prolong preg. i get contractions and tae panadine forte500 to relax. is there any harm of these medications. last week ultrasound showed my cervix as 0.9cm in length but closed.
Mar 17, 2013
 PROGESTRONE pesseries at 36 weeks
by: Wray

Hi Mina Yes it is safe and a good idea to continue with the progesterone. It doesn't stop birth once the body has decided it's time. I'm surprised you have to take the panadine to stop contractions, as that is exactly what progesterone is designed to do, it keeps the uterus 'quiet'. It seems possible you're not using enough, you don't say how much you are using. We do have a page on Pregnancy you could look through, and another one here. Take care Wray
Mar 27, 2013
 Progesterone at 8 weeks
by: 5th pregnany help

Hi, I just found this site.. I am currently 8 weeks today.. Last May I had a misscarraige at around 6 weeks or so. 5 days before my Progesterone level was a 4 on a Tuesday and I started suppositoires at 25 mg twice daily 2 days later on a Thursday and on a Saturday I misscarried. I found out I was pregnant this time and at 4 weeks or so my Progesterone level was 16.2 and I was still started on progest suppos 25 mg twice daily... Im going to a new Dr and she said that I could stop taking them bc of her reasons... Im so confused.. I only have 5 days left of the prescription and not sure what to do.. Please help with advise.. Thanks so Much... I went last week at 7 weeks and baby had a hr of 128...
Mar 29, 2013
 Progesterone at 8 weeks
by: Wray

Hi there 50mg/day progesterone will not stop a miscarriage occurring if it's due to low progesterone. Between 200-600mg/day is normally given. We do have a page on Pregnancy you could look through, and another here. If you can't get more suppositories, the creams work just as effectively. We've helped many women struggling to fall pregnant, or with recurrent miscarriages to go on and have a healthy baby. You might like to look at this page we have on a progesterone cream. Please have a vitamin D test done too, as a lack of this also causes miscarriages, see here, here and here. Please take time to watch the videos on vitamin D at the end of the pregnancy page. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth and Birmingham Hospital. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml (175-250nmol/L) and not the 30ng/ml (75nmol/L) most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although recent research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Apr 26, 2013
 Need reassurance!
by: Hopefully Pregnant

Hello, I'm 6 weeks and considered high risk. I have had 4 miscarriages. I found out I was pregnant on the 17 April my levels was 158. Levels two days later was 395. I was put on Crinone 8% gel, once a day 19 April. 22 April my cervix was very sore to walk/sit. The next day early morning, I started spotting blood, only visiable when wiping. I went to the ER, my levels was 856.31. Then i noticed that some of the globes of gel was coming out too. No cramps. I've been spotting since and its going on 5 days with dark to now light blood. I've asked my doctor to switch progestrone meds to Endometrin 2x a day.. do you think i'm impending a miscarriage?
Apr 27, 2013
 Need reassurance!
by: Wray

Hi there The levels you are giving me are for hCG, not for progesterone. hCG only stimulates the corpus luteum to secrete progesterone, it doesn't actually raise levels. If the corpus luteum is not functioning well, no amount of hCG is going to help. Have they checked your progesterone levels too, it's pointless only doing hCG. It's progesterone which ensures the embryo stays in place. I'm not sure which Crinone you were given as the 8% comes in 45mg or 90mg progesterone, neither of which are high enough to prevent a miscarriage, particularly if only used once a day. It must be used a minimum of twice a day as levels begin dropping after about 13 hours. Endometrin has 100mg per vaginal insert, it should be used a minimum of twice a day, the website recommends 2 to 3 times a day, see here. Amounts used to prevent miscarriages range from 200mg/day to 600mg/day, I would always err on the high side, and use 400mg/day. We do have more info on our Pregnancy page, theres's also more info here. Bleeding and spotting are a common occurrence in many pregnancies. It's only if prolonged and excessive is a miscarriage likely. If it takes too long to get the Endometrin, the creams are just as effective, as progesterone is absorbed well via the skin. Take care Wray
Jun 01, 2013
 settling down of symptoms
by: Regi

Hi Wray. In an earlier post you mentioned that the symptoms of being on progesterone therapy settles down. I have been taking 200mg 3 times a day since the night prior to my 3-day embryo transfer. immediately I had severe bloating. I am now 9 days past transfer and waiting just under a week to do the pregnancy test. My worry is that I don't feel so bloated now, not like before which was a lot. Is this a sign of the progesterone symptoms settling as you say it does? or should I have cause for worry that maybe now my period will come. I haven't missed a dose. But I do feel more period like feelings.
Jun 01, 2013
 settling down of symptoms
by: Wray

Hi Regi It does settle down, but it can take 3-6 months, and it also depends on the amount used. It appears you're taking oral progesterone, am I correct? If so this is the least effective Delivery system, "The liver and gut region removed a mean of 96 per cent of the progesterone entering these tissues", see here. So in effect you're getting very little. And if you had an embryo transfer, I fail to see how one night prior to transfer would be sufficient time for progesterone to change the endometrium from a proliferating lining to a secretory lining. It normally takes 12-14 days which occurs naturally during the luteal phase. Too little progesterone stimulates oestrogen, leading to Oestrogen Dominance. Did they do a vitamin D test and give you any? It seems so little is known about this, they've found vitamin D is essential for an embryo to implant successfully, see here and here. Progesterone is of course essential too, see here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here. Continued below
Jun 01, 2013
 settling down of symptoms Part 2
by: Wray

Hi Regi And more here, here and here. We also have a page on Pregnancy you could look through and another here. I take it that they have classified you as infertile, hence the IVF. We do have a page on Infertility you could look through. Often a lack of Progesterone and Vitamin D are a cause, which is usually overlooked. Take care Wray
Jun 01, 2013
 Slowing down of symptoms (cont...)
by: Regi

Wow Wray, thank you very much for your quick response. No, I have been using the pills vaginally. And they allowed me the treatment given my age (39) though they said there was nothing wrong with my reproductive capacity (nor my husband's).

I don't think they did a Vit D test, but I did have lots of testing prior. And I have been taking vit supplements for a while, even prior to the whole IVF cycle.

What reasons could there be therefore for the symptoms of bloating to go? Does it just mean the body is now used to the hormones? That they are now balanced? It's just strange to be so bloated and then gradually not.

On a separate matter, I put one in vaginally this morning upon waking.. then as I was feeling bit emotional & ditzy, about an hour later when I went to take my vitamin pill I accidentally took another progesterone one! Swallowed down with water. Chemist later told me not to take another dose at lunch and just take the one at bedtime.

Am scared this all means I'm not going to test positive on Thursday. The 2ww is a rollercoaster of hope and fear, resignation and resilience!

Thank you for the links.
Jun 01, 2013
 Slowing down of symptoms (cont...)
by: Wray

Hi Regi I'm not normally this quick! But I've caught up on the backlog I had. If there's nothing wrong with your reproductive capacity, I'm puzzled why you're going through IVF. It is normal to give progesterone for any assisted reproductive procedure. I'm pleased you weren't taking it, as that would have been a waste. The amount you were getting was very good, 600mg/day which would account for the bloating going so quickly. I find it difficult to persuade women, men too, to use a high enough amount. Too little stimulates oestrogen and then Oestrogen Dominance hits. Bloating is one symptom, very pleased it passed so quickly. You could safely have used one vaginally as you only got about 20mg from the swallowed one, which would do nothing. I do hope it turns out a successful procedure for you, although I still can't understand why you had it! Take care Wray
Jun 02, 2013
 can progesterone cause vaginal cyst
by: tima

hi,
i av been on progesterone 100mg twice a day for abt a mth now due to short cervix,i use it vaginally.i started using it at 16 weeks now am 20 weeks,but somdays ago i notice somtin in my vaginal dat was nt der b4 i started using the progesterone.i chk online and found out it cld be a cyst,i need to no if dis is possible and if yes do i need to go to the ER cos my next OB appt is in 2 weeks.pls help.
Jun 05, 2013
 can progesterone cause vaginal cyst
by: Wray

Hi Tima I take it you must be pregnant when you say you started the progesterone at 16 weeks and you're now at 20 weeks. It won't be the progesterone causing the cyst or whatever it is, your placenta is now making it too. It could be some other ingredient in the capsule to which you are reacting. You could try opening it and adding the contents to a small amount of skin cream and apply that to your skin. This will give your vagina a break and the problem might clear up. You will still get the full benefit of the progesterone through your skin. We do have a page on Pregnancy you could look through, and another here. Take care Wray

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