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Maternal (Expert Forum)
Progesterone levels & use of creme.....testing/procedures....
Patient medical question and answer from The Maternal and Child Health Forum. Health topic area and articles about newborn care
Progesterone levels & use of creme.....testing/procedures....
by Keli__0, Apr 16, 1999 12:00AM
Posted by Kelli on April 16, 1999 at 12:29:28
I'm 33 and have trying to conceive for 13 months. I had the 21 day prog test and others done. My level came back as 7.2 which I've found out is low (all others "normal"). DH had a SA and it too was normal (he has fathered a child - 7yrs ago). My cycles are very regular since coming off bcp's last yr. usually 25-27 days. I had an HSG done on cd8 during this current cycle. I decided to start using progesterone creme at 2dpo since I cannot convince my ob/gyn that my level should be higher. (I've been researching!!)My doctor said that if I'm not pg w/in 3 months to contact them for a lap. I've already had to wait 1 yr for the initial tests and now 3 more months. Does this seem reasonable to you? I'm not getting any younger.....
I know that it has not been medically proven that by using this creme my levels will increase, but has there been any studies? Will it increase my bbt and cycle length? Lastly, what other way can my doctor increase my levels?
Thanks so much for your help!
~Kelli
Posted by hfhs.md.db on April 16, 1999 at 15:48:46
Luteal phase deficiency (LPD, insufficient progesterone levels after ovulation)is a somewhat controversial diagnosis. Not all believe that that there is an association with reproductive problems and the diagnosis and treatment are not at all standardized.
Clinicians who believe that diagnosis is best with mid-luteal progesterone levels would require several cycles with values less than 10 ng/ml. Treatment is also highly variable. Progesterone replacement can be achieved with suppositories, injections, or with a new gel preparation (perhaps this is the creme you are referring to). Other clinicians treat "LPD" with clomiphene citrate during cycle days 5-9.
Progesterone supplementation may lengthen the cycle by a few days, but should generally not influence BBT testing. The best way to document an improvement in progesterone levels would be to draw a mid-luteal level while on replacement.
The decision to seek another medical opinion or specialist referral can be difficult. Your point about your age is well taken. Often, a specialist may be able to direct your evaluation and management more efficiently. I would strongly consider this, especially since potential surgery has been recommend. Some infertility specialists would recommend going to assisted reproductive techniques before extensive surgical management.
Good Luck.
