Progesterone Level Effecting Conception?

[krisgoo2]

I have heard of a number of people, including myself, trying to conceive for months and learning they have progesterone levels at 7 dpo ranging from 5-9 (with all other blood tests and semen analysis results coming back normal).  My OB/GYN says this confirms ovulation, but thinks it seems "a bit low".  I have read that numbers like this could impact conception/implantation and that progesterone supplements may be necessary.  Could a progesterone level of 5-9 be effecting our chances of getting pregnant?  What is the impact of mid-luteal phase progesterone levels being "a bit low"?  Thank you for your help!

[Forum-M.D.-SP]

Dear krisgoo2-

I do not believe these values are low. Progesterone is released from the ovary in pulses or bursts, every four hours or so. If you catch progesterone at its low point, it may only be 3-5. If at its high point it may exceed 15 or higher. Progesterone values as low as 3 are enough to prepare the uterine lining (the endometrium) for receiving a pregnancy. In my opinion levels of 5-9 are OK

[LJ307]

I just started ttc also.  This is my second month and my dr. has me doing a 21 day progesterone check my level last month was 11.9 and he said anything above 5 - 6 shows adequate ovulation.

However, I've just started reading this forum and am discovering that typical protocol is to also do a cd 10  and cd 12 ultrasound to check the size and growth of the follicles also.  You might want to ask the doc. about this.

Are you on Clomid?

[krisgoo2]

I am not on Clomid.  My doctor said my level of 5.4 shows ovulation so I don't need to worry about being on Clomid.  I have been charting my BBT for 9 months and it does exactly what it's supposed to do - it's low day 1 through day 14, then high for about 10-12 days.  I also get + OPK results.  My doctor is considering a progesterone supplement from 3 dpo through menstruation.  Do you think Clomid is advisable if I am ovulating regularly?

[summer0728]

Is you lutenal (sp?) phase long enough?  You might not have enough time for the fetus in implant.

[LJ307]

If you're ovulating you may not need to be on Clomid.  I do ovulate on my own, but am on Clomid because my cycles are so irregular and Clomid puts me on predictable 28 day cycle.  Also, because of my age, even though I'm ovulating, the follicles may not be adequate size or maturation for conception.  In your case, I think you're ok without it.  However, if you go more than 6 cycles and don't get pregnant, I would suggest seeing a reproductive endrocronologist instead of an OB/GYN.

Good luck.