Ovulation With a Low Progesterone Level
Getting pregnant is not always easy; in fact, it can be quite difficult. For ovulation to occur, hormone levels must be balanced properly. If not, anovulation may occur. There are ways to track progestrone levels and ovulation.
Getting pregnant is not always easy; in fact, it can be quite difficult. For ovulation to occur, hormone levels must be balanced properly. If not, anovulation may occur. There are ways to track progestrone levels and ovulation. By keeping track of both hormone levels and ovulation, you can increase your chances of conceiving.
Hormone Levels
Hormone levels need to be in a certain range during the luteal phase and also during pregnancy. The luteal phase is made up of the days that occur after ovulation has occurred. Typically, this is around 14 days. These levels start out low during ovulation and begin to increase throughout your entire pregnancy. These levels continue to rise each trimester. The progesterone level during the follicular phase should be around 1.5 ng/ml. The follicular phase is what occurs prior to ovualtion and is when the ovarian follicle matures. This phase ends when ovulation begins. If the progesterone rate is higher then chances of becoming pregnant are lower. Progesterone levels during ovulation should be around 10 ng/ml. If you are taking hormones, the level should be around 15 ng/ml. However, a progesterone level over 5 is an indication that ovulation is occurring.
Ovulation
Ovulation occurs when an egg that has matured is released from the ovaries. After it is released, it travels down the fallopian tube with the possibility of being fertilized. Most women ovulate anywhere between day 11 and day 21 of their cycle. Another way to calculate when you are most fertile is by counting 12 to16 days from when your next expected period should occur. By calculating when you should be ovulating, you are more likely to conceive.
Low Progesterone
During ovulation, progesterone levels are usually are around 10 ng/ml. Sometimes this level is higher and sometimes it is lower. If it is higher, the chances of conception are lowered. If it is lower, the same is true. A reduced luteal phase--one that lasts less than 10 days--can be a signal that progesterone levels are low. Some miscarriages are also caused by low progesterone levels. Progesterone prepares your body or, more specifically, your uterus for implantation.
Treatment for Low Progesterone
There are numerous progesterone treatments out there. These hormonal supplements come in one of four forms: creams, oral medication, vaginal suppositories and intramuscular injections. The oral form of any hormone is less effective due to the fact that the liver has to metabolize it before it is sent to the rest of the body. The progesterone creams are usually used as soon as ovuation is going to occur. These creams should not be used prior to this period of time. As far as vaginal suppositories and injections are concerned, your doctor will tailor these to your hormonal needs. Consult a specialist before taking any over-the-counter hormones.
Monitoring Ovulation and Hormones
You can monitor ovulation through several methods. There are many at-home ovulation and fertilty tests. These tests monitor hormones to help you find your peak fertility days. Some of these tests let you know if you are able to concieve at all. A physician, endocrinologist, or obstetrician or gynecologist will be able to offer you more accurate blood hormone tests to determine hormone levels. This can aid in conception and prevent the likelihood of a hormone-related miscarriage.