Patient's question:
I would like to ask about progesterone. My menstrual cycle has always been quite irregular, ranging from 30 to 60 days. My last menstrual period was on November 8, and ovulation is expected on September 5. Due to a previous miscarriage last year, I had my progesterone tested when I was 60 days pregnant. The doctor informed me that the result was low and prescribed progesterone injections. Over the next 20 days, I had a total of four follow-up tests. I will list the results below:Date Progesterone Level Doctor's Treatment
October 10 11.91 Prescribed 3 progesterone injections
October 12 17.15 5 progesterone injections
October 19 15.63
Doctor's answer:
1. In the normal menstrual cycle of women, the progesterone level in the blood is highest during the luteal phase and lowest during the follicular phase. Dynamic monitoring is helpful in determining the ovulation period, understanding luteal function, and studying the mechanisms of various steroid contraceptives and anti-abortion drugs.2. In normal pregnancy, progesterone levels in the blood begin to rise starting from the 11th week and reach a peak by the 35th week, reaching levels of 80–320 μg/L. During threatened miscarriage, progesterone remains high; if there is a downward trend, it may indicate the possibility of miscarriage. In multiple pregnancies, progesterone levels are elevated.
3. Pathological elevation of progesterone is seen in diabetic pregnant women, molar pregnancy, granulosa cell tumors of the ovary, ovarian lipid cell tumors, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, congenital 17α-hydroxylase deficiency, primary hypertension, and other diseases.
4. Pathological reduction of progesterone is primarily observed in luteal dysfunction and functional disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome, anovulatory dysfunctional uterine bleeding, severe pregnancy-induced hypertension, placental dysfunction during pregnancy, fetal growth retardation, and stillbirth.
Low progesterone levels may increase the risk of miscarriage. It is recommended to undergo regular prenatal examinations, maintain a healthy lifestyle, follow a balanced diet, and seek medical attention if any discomfort occurs, following the doctor’s advice for treatment.