Low Progesterone in Early Pregnancy: Risks & Treatment Options

Question
Dear Dr. Ramirez my name is Debbie and I live in Houston Texas. My husband and I found out we are 4 1/2 weeks pregnant however we were told by our doctor that my hCG levels were increasing but not as much as they should also my Progesterone levels were low. What are my chances of keeping this baby and are there any treatments to help?

Answer
Hello Debbie,

I can't give you a statistic other than to say that every pregnancy has up to a 40% miscarriage rate prior to 8 weeks gestation.  

Studies looking at BHCG levels (patterns) and Progesterone have shown a poor outcome (increase miscarriage rate), when the levels were abnormal or low.  That is not ALL pregnancies but a significant number.

All you can do for now is wait and see.  It might still turn out favorably.  If I were your doc, I would have started you on Progesterone supplements right away.

Sincerely,

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.