Progesterone levels

In January I had a miscarriage at 14 weeks although the baby was measuring 12 weeks 1day.  Unsure of why the baby stopped developing.  I am now 5-6weeks.  My dr. wants me to take a 81mg aspirin daily and 200mg prometrium orally daily.  I am uncomfortable with both of these.  I asked for a progesterone check and it came back at 12.5 which my dr. said was borderline and I needed to take the progesterone. I have had two healthy children naturally and would like to do it again.  Is my level really borderline? would I benefit from taking the prometrium?  should I ask to have my levels checked again?  By the way I had my clotting levels and all that stuff checked.  they did not show any abnormality.  The aspirin was a just in case thing I guess.
Christina, MI


This discussion is related to Supplemental progesterone on top of normal progesterone levels: is it safe?.

[Cosmogal]

Here is some information for you that I found. I do know however that progesterone levels have to be within a certain level in order to prevent miscarriage. Hope you find this info helpful.


Progesterone Levels During Pregnancy
What is progesterone?
Progesterone is a hormone produced by the ovaries that helps prepare the uterus for pregnancy. It is first produced by the corpus luteum in the ovaries and later is maintained by the placenta.

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What does progesterone do?
Helps to regulate the menstrual cycle.
Prepares the lining of the uterus for implantation.
Keeps the lining of the uterus thick which is necessary for a successful pregnancy.
Produces a rise in temperature after ovulation, which remains until menstruation occurs.
Creates a nutrient rich environment for the baby by increasing glycogen and arterial blood to the lining of the uterus.
Keeps the uterus from having contractions.
Causes the cervix to thicken and create a mucous plug which prevents bacteria from entering the uterus.
What are normal progesterone levels?
Progesterone during menstrual cycle

Day 1-14   >1 to 1.5 ng/ml

Day 15-28 2-28 ng/ml

Progesterone during pregnancy

First Trimester 9-47 ng/ml
Second Trimester  17-147 ng/ml
Third Trimester 55-200 ng/ml

Sometimes doctors will check a woman's progesterone level during pregnancy.  Most doctors like to see a minimum level of 10 ng/ml during the first few weeks of pregnancy.   If a woman has low progesterone levels this can be an indication of a threatened miscarriage.  If you are concerned about your progesterone level talk to your doctor for more information.