Progestrone levels?

MissSilverlake

I just got a call from my OBGYN's nurse, and she wasn't very helpful. She informed me that my progestrone level is 10.1 and they like to see it in the teens. She said the doctor wants to test me one more time at abot 9 dpo and if it is still low, they will start me on Clomid.

I've been Googling this for the last hour, and I'm confused why she would want me on Clomid. I have 28-30 day cycles, and a fairly normal 13-14 day luteral phase. When I told the nurse I am ovulating and asked why Clomid, she simply said, "For fertility reasons." What the heck?

Any advice would be much appreciated! My OBGYN is impossible to get ahold of, and I am seriously thinking about changing doctors.

staycee

anything over 5 indicates ovulation.

10.1 I think is absolutely fine.   I believe they like it over 10 on medicated (ie: fertily meds) cycles.

clomid is not candy and if you don't need it, I would avoid it like the plague.

yogisunam

How long have you been trying? If it's been a year, then go see a specialist.

I think you are smart for questioning being put on Clomid so soon without a specific reason. There are lots of tests that should be done first...cd3/cd bloodwork, hsg, etc. 

If you do go on Clomid, you'll want to make sure you are closely monitored. 

MissSilverlake

I've been trying 8 months and this is the first test I've gotten so far...  I'm surprised they would suggest a medication for ovulation without actually confirming I'm ovulating. Aren't there other ways to raise the progesterone levels? Thanks for your opinions - it definitely helps.

Nikki1007

yogisunam:

How long have you been trying? If it's been a year, then go see a specialist.

I think you are smart for questioning being put on Clomid so soon without a specific reason. There are lots of tests that should be done first...cd3/cd bloodwork, hsg, etc. 

If you do go on Clomid, you'll want to make sure you are closely monitored. 

Ditto this

staycee

MissSilverlake:

Aren't there other ways to raise the progesterone levels?

 

yes.  Progesterone supplements/suppositories to take during your LP.

babydontforget

Some doctors treat progesterone deficiencies with supplements. Some (including mine) like to treat progesterone deficiencies with Clomid. The idea is that "strengthening" ovulation during your follicular phase will cause your body to release more progesterone during your luteal phase.

That said, you're right to question your doctor's advice, because 1) you're actually over the amount than I was told they like to see during an unmedicated cycle (10). 2) Sounds like there are a lot of basic tests you haven't had yet--you should get those tests before proceeding, because 3) Clomid is no joke. Yogi's right: If you do eventually decide to go on Clomid, make sure they monitor you.

Also, that nurse is an idiot. If you're in a position where you need fertility treatments, consider switching the an RE.?

yogisunam:

How long have you been trying? If it's been a year, then go see a specialist.

I think you are smart for questioning being put on Clomid so soon without a specific reason. There are lots of tests that should be done first...cd3/cd bloodwork, hsg, etc.?

If you do go on Clomid, you'll want to make sure you are closely monitored.?

Dr.Loretta

babydontforget:

Some doctors treat progesterone deficiencies with supplements. Some (including mine) like to treat progesterone deficiencies with Clomid. The idea is that "strengthening" ovulation during your follicular phase will cause your body to release more progesterone during your luteal phase.

That said, you're right to question your doctor's advice, because 1) you're actually over the amount than I was told they like to see during an unmedicated cycle (10). 2) Sounds like there are a lot of basic tests you haven't had yet--you should get those tests before proceeding, because 3) Clomid is no joke. Yogi's right: If you do eventually decide to go on Clomid, make sure they monitor you.

Also, that nurse is an idiot. If you're in a position where you need fertility treatments, consider switching the an RE. 

yogisunam:

How long have you been trying? If it's been a year, then go see a specialist.

I think you are smart for questioning being put on Clomid so soon without a specific reason. There are lots of tests that should be done first...cd3/cd bloodwork, hsg, etc. 

If you do go on Clomid, you'll want to make sure you are closely monitored. 

Well said

MrsO1111

I wouldn't mess with Clomid yet.  Wait til it's been a year then find an RE, especially if you're not happy with your current OBGYN and his staff.  I had the same problem last year and was much more comfortable moving forward with things b/c the RE did tests, gave me logical, valid reasons for going on Clomid, and then monitored me.  OBGYN was just going to prescribe it and have me come back "when you're pregnant or in 3-4 months if you're not."  Ugh.  Good luck.

mrsmacias2008

I was on Progesterone supplements and that helped. My levels went from 8 to 26. My dr. didn't want to put me on Clomid at all.