P4 results and talk me down, please.

JennOH85 · January 2013

So my 7dpo P4 came back at 5.7 -- I got this over the phone from a nurse who told me that the doc had not made any notes about this yet. From what Dr.Googles tells me, this is definitely indicative of either no or weak ovulation. My self-prescribed treatment has thus far been whiskey.

Please remind me that it is dumb dumb dumb to take Clomid unmonitored from my OB, because my baby-obsessed brain is trying like hell to talk me into it. At my HSG appointment on CD3 my OB said that if this cycle is a bust--which is obvious if there was no ovulation--that we'd do Clomid next cycle. At least drink whiskey with me?

lovelainie · January 2013

I'll take some whiskey, for sure.

And you're right, it's really (reallyreallyreally) unwise to take clomid, unmonitored, from an OB.

BootsOrHearts · January 2013

I think if you're not ovulating, it may be time to ask for a referral to an RE and find out what is up.

ellajune2012 · January 2013

BootsOrHearts:
I think if you're not ovulating, it may be time to ask for a referral to an RE and find out what is up.

What Boots said.

I don't know anything about Clomid, but that would be my next course of action.

But first, I'll join you.

JennOH85 · January 2013

BootsOrHearts:
I think if you're not ovulating, it may be time to ask for a referral to an RE and find out what is up.

I know you're right and switching to an RE was the game plan. But it's hard to walk away from my OB dangling Clomid in front of my nose as a possible fix, YKWIM? I know what I need to do, but it's not what I wantto do (not that any of this is what we all want to do).

JennOH85 · January 2013

lovelainie:
I'll take some whiskey, for sure.
And you're right, it's really (reallyreallyreally) unwise to take clomid, unmonitored, from an OB.

I'll pour a glass for you! On the rocks? Smile

JennOH85 · January 2013

ellajune2012:
BootsOrHearts:
I think if you're not ovulating, it may be time to ask for a referral to an RE and find out what is up.
What Boots said.
I don't know anything about Clomid, but that would be my next course of action.
But first, I'll join you.

Bottoms up! Thanks, Ellajune.

JennOH85 · January 2013

Bethelgal42:
I don't know if this helps, but the results I got from my OB today says that normals ranges are:
Follicular phase: 0 - 1.6 ng/ml
Luteal Phase: 1.1 - 21
{Hugs}
I don't drink Whiskey, but I'll drink one of these with you.

Are those daiquiris? Yum! I'll take one of those, too, please! Smile

I'm intrigued by those numbers. That's the one thing I don't know about mine: whether the units are ng/mL or nmol/L, since that would make a difference. But the nurse I spoke with did say (after giving the disclaimer that she's not a doc, of course) that unmedicated cycles should be at least 10.

((hugs)) back to you!

DebateThis · January 2013

If you are having enough trouble conceiving that you need clomid, it sure as hell should be under the monitored guidance of an RE. Given that you've had several (I think?) annovulatory cycles, I would be hightailing it to the RE and not doing a single thing more with an OB.

JennOH85 · January 2013

DebateThis:
If you are having enough trouble conceiving that you need clomid, it sure as hell should be under the monitored guidance of an RE. Given that you've had several (I think?) annovulatory cycles, I would be hightailing it to the RE and not doing a single thing more with an OB.

I know you're right. I am equal parts anxious and terrified to go to an RE -- which I know is a silly reaction to have, after all, the RE is going to try to help. I need to just make the jump and quit dragging my feet.

JennOH85 · January 2013

Bethelgal42:
JennOH85:
Bethelgal42:
I don't know if this helps, but the results I got from my OB today says that normals ranges are:
Follicular phase: 0 - 1.6 ng/ml
Luteal Phase: 1.1 - 21
{Hugs}
I don't drink Whiskey, but I'll drink one of these with you.

Are those daiquiris? Yum! I'll take one of those, too, please!
I'm intrigued by those numbers. That's the one thing I don't know about mine: whether the units are ng/mL or nmol/L, since that would make a difference. But the nurse I spoke with did say (after giving the disclaimer that she's not a doc, of course) that unmedicated cycles should be at least 10.
((hugs)) back to you!
They are actually strawberry punch, but they do look really good.
I had to call my OB back and specifically request to the medical lab for them to fax me a copy of the results. So now I have a hard copy of my numbers instead of just taking the OB's word for it.

I should switch to punch, actually, since I should get some work done and make dinner tonight Smile

You are so smart! I'm going to call them first thing tomorrow for an actual copy of the results, too. TY for the idea, Bethel!

buckeyebaby814 · January 2013

I noticed you didn't temp this cycle, which mean it is possible you did not O. However, if you know your cycles (meaning, you've charted several) and always O after a +OPK, it's probably accurate.

Sorry about the not so good news Sad

I am one who did their first 2 cycles of clomid with my OBGYN- however, she also would not give me the Rx until I had all basic testing done (CD 3 b/w, HSG and MH had a SA) and then she also monitored me the exact same way my RE ended up doing.

This is just my opinion, but if your OBGYN is not willing/knowledgable about following proper protocol (testing before) before beginning IF treatments, I'd seriously question her knowledge about any IF treatments. I think my OBGYN was a random, who knew what was up, but that's not always the case. Given that Clomid loses it's effectiveness after 3-4 cycles, I would not want to waste those cycles with an OBGYN who is half-a$$ing it.

Good luck to you!

MsAmandaPants · January 2013

I'm sorry you got worrisome news, but step away from Dr. Google (and I realize this is a total pot calling the kettle black moment for me). I hope the doc is able to give you some better information. And it is dumb, dump, dumb to take Clomid unmonitored!

JennOH85 · January 2013

buckeyebaby814:
I noticed you didn't temp this cycle, which mean it is possible you did not O. However, if you know your cycles (meaning, you've charted several) and always O after a +OPK, it's probably accurate.
Sorry about the not so good news
I am one who did their first 2 cycles of clomid with my OBGYN- however, she also would not give me the Rx until I had all basic testing done (CD 3 b/w, HSG and MH had a SA) and then she also monitored me the exact same way my RE ended up doing.
This is just my opinion, but if your OBGYN is not willing/knowledgable about following proper protocol (testing before) before beginning IF treatments, I'd seriously question her knowledge about any IF treatments. I think my OBGYN was a random, who knew what was up, but that's not always the case. Given that Clomid loses it's effectiveness after 3-4 cycles, I would not want to waste those cycles with an OBGYN who is half-a$$ing it.
Good luck to you!

Thank you so much for sharing your experience and advice, BEB. I've been lazy about temping this cycle and now I wish I hadn't been. I do not want to waste any possible cycles, that's for sure, so tonight I'm going to sit down for a long talk with DH so we can start planning and saving our pennies.

buckeyebaby814 · January 2013

JennOH85:
buckeyebaby814:
I noticed you didn't temp this cycle, which mean it is possible you did not O. However, if you know your cycles (meaning, you've charted several) and always O after a +OPK, it's probably accurate.
Sorry about the not so good news
I am one who did their first 2 cycles of clomid with my OBGYN- however, she also would not give me the Rx until I had all basic testing done (CD 3 b/w, HSG and MH had a SA) and then she also monitored me the exact same way my RE ended up doing.
This is just my opinion, but if your OBGYN is not willing/knowledgable about following proper protocol (testing before) before beginning IF treatments, I'd seriously question her knowledge about any IF treatments. I think my OBGYN was a random, who knew what was up, but that's not always the case. Given that Clomid loses it's effectiveness after 3-4 cycles, I would not want to waste those cycles with an OBGYN who is half-a$$ing it.
Good luck to you!
Thank you so much for sharing your experience and advice, BEB. I've been lazy about temping this cycle and now I wish I hadn't been. I do not want to waste any possible cycles, that's for sure, so tonight I'm going to sit down for a long talk with DH so we can start planning and saving our pennies.

Do you have any coverage at all? I know my insurance said no IUI/IVF so I assumed that meant no IF coverage. When I went to my REs office they did all the 'leg work' concerning insurance and they actually covered more than I expected. It's certainly a big decision to make, but important as well.

I noticed you have an 'OH' in your name...making me think we may both be in Ohio? If so and you have any questions about REs in Ohio, I've done a lot of research Wink

JennOH85 · January 2013

Bookshelves:
JennOH85:
DebateThis:
If you are having enough trouble conceiving that you need clomid, it sure as hell should be under the monitored guidance of an RE. Given that you've had several (I think?) annovulatory cycles, I would be hightailing it to the RE and not doing a single thing more with an OB.
I know you're right. I am equal parts anxious and terrified to go to an RE -- which I know is a silly reaction to have, after all, the RE is going to try to help. I need to just make the jump and quit dragging my feet.
I know what you mean. So hard to leap into the unknown, isn't it? Sorry the results weren't what you were hoping. I agree with PPs that with those cycles, an RE is probably your best bet. ::hugs::

You took the words (bolded) right out of my brain, Books. ((hugs)) back to you.

JennOH85 · January 2013

buckeyebaby814:
JennOH85:
buckeyebaby814:
I noticed you didn't temp this cycle, which mean it is possible you did not O. However, if you know your cycles (meaning, you've charted several) and always O after a +OPK, it's probably accurate.
Sorry about the not so good news
I am one who did their first 2 cycles of clomid with my OBGYN- however, she also would not give me the Rx until I had all basic testing done (CD 3 b/w, HSG and MH had a SA) and then she also monitored me the exact same way my RE ended up doing.
This is just my opinion, but if your OBGYN is not willing/knowledgable about following proper protocol (testing before) before beginning IF treatments, I'd seriously question her knowledge about any IF treatments. I think my OBGYN was a random, who knew what was up, but that's not always the case. Given that Clomid loses it's effectiveness after 3-4 cycles, I would not want to waste those cycles with an OBGYN who is half-a$$ing it.
Good luck to you!
Thank you so much for sharing your experience and advice, BEB. I've been lazy about temping this cycle and now I wish I hadn't been. I do not want to waste any possible cycles, that's for sure, so tonight I'm going to sit down for a long talk with DH so we can start planning and saving our pennies.
Do you have any coverage at all? I know my insurance said no IUI/IVF so I assumed that meant no IF coverage. When I went to my REs office they did all the 'leg work' concerning insurance and they actually covered more than I expected. It's certainly a big decision to make, but important as well.
I noticed you have an 'OH' in your name...making me think we may both be in Ohio? If so and you have any questions about REs in Ohio, I've done a lot of research

I put a page on the main board, too, but YGPM Smile

mightymousy · January 2013

Oh geez!

sorry you're having a rough go *hugs* I hope they sort it out for you soon!

jenohouston · January 2013

I don't have any advice about your levels or Clomid but it sounds like you have received some great advice so far. I wanted to offer hugs though!

RedPhoenix625 · January 2013

Sorry you didn't get the news your were hoping for Jenn. I know going to the RE is scary, but you're right - they are there to help. (Says the girl who procrastinated calling the RE for an additional 6 months after getting the referral from her obgyn.)

I think it's time, Jenn. We're here. Just jump. We'll catch ya

ETA: How was your b/w "7dpo" if you're not sure you ovulated? How did your obgyn decide when you would have that b/w done?

whiteroses05 · January 2013

I am sorry you didn't get the news you wanted! I can imagine how frustrated you are! Probably best to wait and talk to your doctor. Big ((hugs))!

JennOH85 · January 2013

RedPhoenix625:
Sorry you didn't get the news your were hoping for Jenn. I know going to the RE is scary, but you're right - they are there to help. (Says the girl who procrastinated calling the RE for an additional 6 months after getting the referral from her obgyn.)
I think it's time, Jenn. We're here. Just jump. We'll catch ya
ETA: How was your b/w "7dpo" if you're not sure you ovulated? How did your obgyn decide when you would have that b/w done?

Thanks, Red. After having a long talk with DH tonight, we both agree it's time.

You make a really interesting point about the CDs that I can't believe never crossed my mind! Okay, so I'm thinking through this as I type so bear with me, the 7dpo was determined using OPKs and my past cycles (yes, I am absolutely kicking myself for not temping this cycle) combined with the fact that my OB insisted this was a "CD21" test, which for those with textbook cycles CD21 would be 7dpo, but nonetheless. My cycles, which are not exactly clockwork, usually run 24 days with O (or what I thought was O) around CD14-15. Now I don't know what to think. Of course last month on progesterone it was 33 days, but AF showed up 3 days after stopping supplements. Okay, now I'm rambling, but the point is you've really got my brain going on this one...

Adam2010 · January 2013

I think you have already gotten great advice from PP but I also wanted to add my two cents- not that I am really knowledgeable in this area but just wanted to add my experience. Are you sure that the blood work was done 7DPO? I noticed that you did not chart this month so are you sure that your b/w is accurate to the day? I only ask this bc my OB had me do CD 21 b/w trying to say that it was 7DPO b/w and it showed my P4 levels were so low that he did not think I was ovulating. Come to find out, after I saw my RE, I am ovulating, but much later and I am not producing a good enough egg to get pregnant. My P4 is low but not as low as they thought. I did 2 cycles of Clomid unmonitored and I would NOT recommend it at all! I feel like I wasted my time with it when I could have been seeing my RE instead and getting my diagnosis sooner! And it was by the advice of the lovely ladies here that I took that leap and found an RE so I owe it all to them for pushing me in the right direction and being there every time I needed a cushion and came back to them with a question about what the RE said

GL! HTH!

katharine25 · January 2013

I just want to add that above 10 is an ideal level, and it's typically the level your looking for when pregnant, but being below that doesn't mean you're not O'ing. 5.7 isnt a great number, but it is high enough to suggest ovulation; especially since you don't have a definitive O day to say you were Definetly 7dpo. Looking at your charts [which aren't stellar, but good enough] you seem to have a short LP as is. It may mean that your not O'ing strong enough, or that you just need progesterone support during your LP. But when you do temp, you do seem to O.
Maybe compromise and have your OB write you a Rx for progesterone to take During the in between cycles while you look for and start with an RE. that way your doing something, but not something that is risky to your healh.
If you want some horror stories as why to not take Clomid with your OB, the TTTC faqs link has some convincing stories.

::siggy::

pkaren · January 2013

(HUGS) I don't know anything about P4 levels, so I have no advice, but I'm sorry that it doesn't look good! I know you were feeling hopeful about this cycle, so this has got to have been a huge blow. I'm so sorry Jenn!

***pg mentioned below**

A co-worker of mine had suffered two losses and was diagnosed by her OB with a weak ovulation. She had to chart and go in for bloodwork once in awhile. Her OB Rx clomid (I didn't say anything about monitoring bc I know nothing about clomid and she trusted her Dr). She did two "fake" cycles of charting and taking clomid and getting bw done. After the Dr felt she had been Rx'ed the right dosage, she did a round of clomid while TTC. She's now pg with twins and she's about 14 weeks.

I'm not sure if this is a "horror" story or how well she was monitored. Maybe get some more info about how your OB will monitor you and weigh the risks for you. I know how temping it must be to just go for it. I just hope you come to a decision that will bring you happiness! ((HUGS)) friend!

RedPhoenix625 · January 2013

pkaren:
(HUGS) I don't know anything about P4 levels, so I have no advice, but I'm sorry that it doesn't look good! I know you were feeling hopeful about this cycle, so this has got to have been a huge blow. I'm so sorry Jenn!

***pg mentioned below**

A co-worker of mine had suffered two losses and was diagnosed by her OB with a weak ovulation. She had to chart and go in for bloodwork once in awhile. Her OB Rx clomid (I didn't say anything about monitoring bc I know nothing about clomid and she trusted her Dr). She did two "fake" cycles of charting and taking clomid and getting bw done. After the Dr felt she had been Rx'ed the right dosage, she did a round of clomid while TTC. She's now pg with twins and she's about 14 weeks.

I'm not sure if this is a "horror" story or how well she was monitored. Maybe get some more info about how your OB will monitor you and weigh the risks for you. I know how temping it must be to just go for it. I just hope you come to a decision that will bring you happiness! ((HUGS)) friend!

I have never heard of this before. I could be completely wrong, and I'm glad it worked out for your friend, but this doesn't seem like a good idea to me. There is a lifetime limit of 6-12 cycles on Clomid due to increased risk of health issues (including cancer), and I don't understand why anyone would take it for 2 cycles without even TTC.

pkaren · February 2013

RedPhoenix625:
pkaren:

(HUGS) I don't know anything about P4 levels, so I have no advice, but I'm sorry that it doesn't look good! I know you were feeling hopeful about this cycle, so this has got to have been a huge blow. I'm so sorry Jenn!

***pg mentioned below**

A co-worker of mine had suffered two losses and was diagnosed by her OB with a weak ovulation. She had to chart and go in for bloodwork once in awhile. Her OB Rx clomid (I didn't say anything about monitoring bc I know nothing about clomid and she trusted her Dr). She did two "fake" cycles of charting and taking clomid and getting bw done. After the Dr felt she had been Rx'ed the right dosage, she did a round of clomid while TTC. She's now pg with twins and she's about 14 weeks.

I'm not sure if this is a "horror" story or how well she was monitored. Maybe get some more info about how your OB will monitor you and weigh the risks for you. I know how temping it must be to just go for it. I just hope you come to a decision that will bring you happiness! ((HUGS)) friend!

I have never heard of this before. I could be completely wrong, and I'm glad it worked out for your friend, but this doesn't seem like a good idea to me. There is a lifetime limit of 6-12 cycles on Clomid due to increased risk of health issues (including cancer), and I don't understand why anyone would take it for 2 cycles without even TTC.

It struck me as "dangerous" too and I questioned it and told her that I had heard that there was a life-time limit of six rounds. She just shrugged it off. The only things I know about clomid, I learned here, I have no personal experience with it. She just trusted her doctor and I'm glad nothing really bad happened. I just didn't feel like it was my place to push the issue, kwim?

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