Progesterone Levels

Hi,

I'm just newly pregnant. I went to my Dr. when I was 8 dpo for some spotting I have been having during my luteal phase. At the time I did not know I could be pregnant. They took my blood for a progesterone check and it came back at 9.66. Since then I have found out that I am pregnant.(10 dpo)
I'm concerned because I have read that my level is low. Do you agree? My Dr. says it is not necessary to check it again. I'm really worried because I just have a feeling something is wrong. I haven't had anymore spotting but I am very dry with no cervical fluid and I'm crampy and gassy as if my period is going to start.

Do these sound like symptoms of low progesterone? What should I look for? My pregnancy tests do not seem to be getting noticeably darker like I would assume they would.

They took blood for an HCG and it was 20 on 12 dpo. I am going today to see if it has doubled.

Also this would be my fourth pg. and I've never felt this way before.

Tammy

[Kevin Pho, MD]

As you know, progesterone levels rise during pregnancy - ranging from about 20 at 4 weeks gestation to 160 at birth.  There can be variation in this level from patient to patient.  If the progesterone levels are too low, then the pregnancy is likely to fail.  

If it continues to be low during pregnancy, you may want to consider supplementation.  Here is what a physician says regarding low progesterone levels:

"Everyone you ask will have slightly different numbers. Also there are differences as to what to do if the levels are low, with some docs giving progesterone (pills, shots, suppositories) and others not treating unless there has been some proof of a preexisting low progesterone in non-pregnancy cycles."
http://parenting.ivillage.com/ttc/0,,4670,00.html?arrivalSA=1&cobrandRef=0&arrival_freqCap=1&pba=adid=13801857

You may want to discuss this option with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[MsBates34]

I have recently found out that I am pregnant and I went to my first doctor's appointment and found that my HCG level is 105 and the progesterone level is 3.2; does this mean I have a tubal pregnancy.  I am 2 weeks and 4 days, is this normal?

Please help!

Michelle

[aksuse]

I am new to this forum, and am merely wondering how I post a question.  Please advise.

Thanks!