what does a progesterone level of 18 mean?

[Baby Vol]

Hi ladies! I started Metformin last month......Doc said my progesterone was 18 on Oct 5th, and I got AF on Oct 7.

Is that a good number or what exactly does it mean? I know its important but I dont understand why.....any info or websites would be great! thanks all :-)

[jennyb473]

they usually test at cd 21 to confirm ovulation.  Anything over 5 means you did O......so congrats....if you were not O'ing before, the Met is helping and now you are!!

[Tanker Chic]

Prior to ovulation you progesterone level stays low.  After ovulation your progesterone goes up.  The fact that yours is up, is an indication that you did ovulate.  If a fertilized egg implants, the progesterone level will stay high and continue to rise to support the pg.  If a fertilized egg does not implant, you progesterone level will fall and that will cause your uterine lining to shed (AF).  

Sometimes your levels will go up but not as much as they should.  In this case dr will give progesterone supplements.  

[miky72]

18 means you ovulated..you are on the right track!

[Brown Eyed Gurl]

18 is a good # and you have to have higher progestrone to sustain a pregnancy....so that's wonderful....mine was only 11.66 and I'm so happy and I'm on metformin prednisone and prometrium.

[Baby Vol]

omg.......i O'd then. we missed the egg i suppose because i got AF....but thank the Lord the metformin must be working. thanks ladies!

[Brown Eyed Gurl]

Yeah you O'd I'm so glad I O'd this time without clomid I was extatic.

[Baby Vol]

O that is  WONDERFUL without the Clomid! I was on clomid this time, this is my 4th cycle of it. Not all in a row but the 4th time I have used it. I wish you the best!!!!!!! I just know you will get your BFP again real soon!

[Brown Eyed Gurl]

I sure hope so......Yep first time without clomid....I couldn't believe it.  I took clomid 3 months and got my BFP.