July 2025 Babies

HCG and Progesterone 1st Trimester

I got my hcg and progesterone levels tested at 4wks2d, and hcg was 397 and progesterone was 18.6. My OBGYN wanted to put me on 100mg Progesterone saying she wants to see it a little higher, closer to 20, and it was "slightly low". No previous pregnancies or miscarriages. No current spotting or bleeding at all. I'm confused because it seems to be in range with how far along I am according to the lab range (1st trimester 4.1-34.0) and google (12-20 ng/ml 5-6 wks.) I would rather not take progesterone if not needed due to effects on my mental health and sleep, but will absolutely do it if it’s needed for baby. I’m just confused.

I retested 4wks4days (48 hours later) progesterone is 18.7 and hcg is 1138. normal progression? Need advice on if these levels seem normal, and if progesterone would even be needed in yall's opinion. What were your levels? This is my very first time being pregnant and I am now having bad anxiety over this. :'(

Best Answer

  • perrybaby25perrybaby25 member
    Answer ✓
    Hi! I just had my blood tested due to spotting, I’m 7w0d. My progesterone is 16.3 (range they provided is 11-45 first trimester) and my HCG 73,182 (range is 15,000-200,000 for 6-8 weeks). I am also surprised that they would recommend 20 at 4 weeks since it’s in range. I’m waiting on my second test but maybe they’ll suggest additional supplements. I’ll keep you updated on what my doctor says! This is my 4th baby and navigating test results has been a challenge each time. So overwhelming. 

Re: HCG and Progesterone 1st Trimester

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  • Aw, I totally understand having anxiety about it, it’s my first time being pregnant and I’ve been having so much anxiety about so many things. I started meeting with a counselor - FYI if anyone else is struggling with anxiety, it might be worth checking into, even check with your employer if they have an EAP that offers any free counseling calls, it’s been helpful. 

    I haven’t had any of that tested yet. My first visit isn’t until 7-8 weeks, so I have no idea what my levels are. (In normal cycles, I have heard that brown spotting before/after period can be a sign of low progesterone, so it’s something I’ve been wanting to ask a dr about someday if that is true or not.)

    Anecdotally, I do know someone who had progesterone injections beginning early in pregnancy (not a fertility clinic patient) and she credits it with helping her baby to “stick” throughout her pregnancy and was so grateful. I know someone else who had progesterone by way of vaginal suppositories during her pregnancy (after working with a fertility clinic) and she said it was uncomfortable doing the suppositories, but she made it. The babies have been born since then, and the moms and babies are doing great! So since I’ve only heard positive stories personally, I feel like I would be more open to considering it if my dr suggested it to me, and maybe even reassured by being able to “do something,” but that’s just me. 

    I think it would be great for you to contact your dr office with these questions and have a conversation about it! I’m sure they have a good reason for recommending it for your care, but it’s always good to be informed and confident about whatever you decide for you and your baby. 😊  

  • I have had 5 miscarriages and was FINALLY referred to fertility clinic. They have me on very high dose of progesterone. Had first ultrasound and it was inconclusive. So I’ve been in limbo since last Monday waiting to see if I’m going to miscarry or if it’s going to be a viable pregnancy. Friday can’t come soon enough(repeat ultrasound) no cramping or spotting at all and I have all the other normal 1st trimester symptoms. 

    I feel like the extra progesterone is helping but we will find out soon. 
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