Progesterone for Infertility: Timing and Usage

Question
Hello Doctor,

I am 28 years old and currently experiencing infertility issues due to anovulation. I have had 2 chemical pregnancies in the last year due to low progesterone levels in the luteal phase.
I am currently doing a mix of Clomid and Ovidrel shots. I took the Ovidrel shot on Sunday, but as of this morning (Wednesday) my morning temperature has not gone up to signal ovulation. My doctor said to go ahead and start progesterone this morning anyways. I am concerned that starting the progesterone before signs of ovulation could impede the onset of it.

Is progesterone okay to start at this point?

Thank you,

Cathy

Answer
Hello Cathy from the U.S.,

No.  If you start the progesterone prematurely, it could impede implantation.  There is only a 3 day window for the embryo to implant and that timing is very important.  Progesterone is used to change the anatomic architecture of the endometrial lining in order to facilitate implantation, but the timing is crucial.

Why hasn't your doctor put you on supplemental progesterone, such as Endometrin, Prometrium or Crinone, to treat the luteal phase defect?

Good Luck,

Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com

Monterey, California, U.S.A.

for additional information check out my blog at http://womenshealthandfertility.blogspot.com check me out on twitter with me at @montereybayivf, and follow me on Facebook at http://bit.ly/9Iw9oV