QuestionHi Brenda, At 7 wks LMP, my progesterone level was 8.5
I asked for a fasting draw, and it was 13.1 two days later.
I have been using Crinone 8% once a day, and at 15.5 wks LMP the level was 17 (non-fasting). My midwife thought this was a "good" number, but I am afraid to d/c the use of the Crinone as she has ordered me to. I lost a baby at 14 wks (never had prog levels checked) last year, then I had an early m/c, and then a loss at 8.5 wks. Prior to these 3 losses, I had 7 healthy pregnancies / full-term babies.
Your advice and knowledge will be greatly appreciated. ~Kim
AnswerDear Kim,
Progesterone is first produced by the corpus luteum of the ovary and production from this site is necessary for the first 8 weeks of pregnancy. From implantation of the embryo onwards for 40 weeks the placenta takes over the production of progesterone. After week 8-9, you should be able to gradually taper off use of the supplement. Placental production of progesterone should be more than enough at that point to sustain the pregnancy. If your levels are ok on their own, there really is no need for it beyond the 8th or 9th week. The thing that you sometimes want to avoid is a sudden drop of the hormone. You might want to ask about going to the 4% formula for a bit to wean down, or you can use half the amount of your 8% or use it half the amount of time you have been. Ask your midwife which is preferred. I would assume that when you begin to taper off, your doctor/midwife will want to run progesterone levels to make sure the placenta is picking up the slack, so to speak. As long as it is, all is good. By the end of your pregnancy, the placenta will be making hundreds of times more progesterone than the supplement provides.
If nothing else, just express to them your apprehension about stopping it completely due to the previous losses and let them know it would simply make you feel better as an expectant mother. They usually understand. :-)
I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.
Brenda
