Progesterone Supplementation Timing for Ovulation and Pregnancy

Progesterone supplementation is administered on the potential day of ovulation?

Hello, on November 28th, the doctor said the follicle was 2.0 and the endometrium was 0.68.
He advised me to have intercourse that day and to supplement with progesterone (one small white pill in the morning and evening until my period starts).
However, I noticed that most people start supplementing with progesterone 3-4 days after confirming ovulation.

1.
If I supplement with progesterone before ovulation, is there still a chance of pregnancy? Feeling disheartened, I stopped for a day, but then I wondered if this would affect my menstrual cycle, so I continued to take it morning and evening.

2.
Will interrupting progesterone for one day affect my cycle or physiological function?
3.
Should I continue taking it or stop? Is it reasonable for the doctor to say to take it until my period starts? (He mentioned that taking it continuously wouldn't prevent my period from coming.)
4.
How many days should I take progesterone? (My menstrual cycle is 32 days.) Thank you!

Julia, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/12/07

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, progesterone primarily increases the chances of implantation after conception.
It is generally administered after intercourse and continued until either the end of the treatment or the onset of menstruation, as directed by your physician.
Missing a day does not have an impact.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2019/12/07

More Info

When it comes to progesterone supplementation during the menstrual cycle and its implications for ovulation and pregnancy, there are several important factors to consider. Progesterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining early stages of pregnancy.
1. Timing of Progesterone Supplementation: It is generally recommended to start progesterone supplementation after ovulation has been confirmed. This is because progesterone helps to prepare the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy. If you start taking progesterone before ovulation, it may not have the desired effect on the uterine lining, and it could potentially interfere with the natural hormonal signals that promote ovulation. However, if your doctor has advised you to start progesterone supplementation based on your specific situation, it is important to follow their guidance.
2. Impact of Interrupting Progesterone Supplementation: If you have interrupted your progesterone supplementation for a day, it is unlikely to have a significant impact on your menstrual cycle or overall reproductive function. However, consistency is key when it comes to hormone supplementation. If you are concerned about the interruption, it is advisable to resume taking the medication as prescribed.
3. Continuing Progesterone Supplementation: If your doctor has instructed you to continue progesterone until your next menstrual period, it is generally considered safe to do so. The purpose of continuing progesterone is to support the uterine lining and maintain a potential pregnancy. It is a common practice for doctors to recommend continuing progesterone until menstruation occurs, as this helps to stabilize the hormonal environment in the body.

4. Duration of Progesterone Use: The exact duration for which progesterone should be taken can vary based on individual circumstances. In many cases, progesterone is prescribed for about 10 to 14 days, starting after ovulation. Since you mentioned having a 32-day cycle, it would be reasonable to continue progesterone until around day 26 or 27 of your cycle, unless your doctor has provided different instructions.
In summary, while it is generally recommended to start progesterone after ovulation, following your doctor's advice is crucial, especially if they have assessed your specific situation. Interrupting progesterone for a day is unlikely to have a significant impact, but consistency is important. Continuing progesterone until your next period is a common practice, and the duration of supplementation can vary based on individual needs. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to address any concerns you may have regarding your treatment plan.
Lastly, it’s important to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your treatment and any changes in your cycle or symptoms you may experience. They can provide the best guidance tailored to your individual health needs and reproductive goals.

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