QuestionI'm a little over 4weeks along and my Dr. put me on prometrium. I read an answer from a previous question that said this is to prevent a pending miscarriage. What is the likelyhood of a miscarriage if they are using this medication? And should I be concerned that he wants me to stay on this for at least 12weeks?
AnswerDear Marquis,
I'm not sure which question you read, but Prometrium is not always ordered for a pending or threatened miscarriage. Sometimes doctors order the Prometrium for a progesterone level which is not quite as high as they would like to have it in early pregnancy, even if there have been no other signs that a miscarriage is imminent.
In early pregnancy, progesterone is needed in the following ways, (mostly in conjunction with estrogen):
-Makes the endometrium (inner lining of the uterus) develop and secrete fluids
-Maintains the functions of the placenta and fights off unwanted cells near the womb that could cause damage to the placenta or fetus
-Keeps the endometrium in a thickened condition
-Stimulates the growth of breast tissue
-Strengthens the mucus plug covering the cervix to prevent infection
-Stops the uterus from contracting (thus keeping the baby where it is)
These are some of the reasons that it is important for that progesterone level to stay up. The Prometrium, which is essentially progesterone, should help boost that progesterone level. Your doctor is simply trying to give your pregnancy a good head start, so to speak, by wanting you to stay on it for the 1st trimester.
I hope this information has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well with the rest of your pregnancy!!
Brenda
