Should You Continue Progesterone After a Negative Pregnancy Test?

If the pregnancy test is negative, is it necessary to continue supplementing with progesterone?

Hello, Doctor: My menstrual cycle has been about 25-31 days over the past few months, but I occasionally experience slight brown discharge before my period, or my period may pause for a day or two before continuing.
The obstetrician diagnosed me with insufficient progesterone and no ovulation.
My last period started on December 11, and I took medication to delay my period at the end of that month.
My period returned on January 6, but since I want to conceive, I continued to see the obstetrician.
The doctor mentioned that my endometrium is thin.
I remember starting progesterone a few days after my period began on the third day.
On January 18, I went for a follicle ultrasound; the first clinic reported three follicles, two of which measured approximately 1.8 to 2.1 cm.
The doctor advised my husband and me to try to conceive on January 20, 22, and 24.
I asked if that was too late, and the doctor said the follicles did not appear ready to rupture yet.
However, my husband and I tried on January 19.
The next day, I visited a second clinic, and after the ultrasound, they said they did not see anything and contradicted the first clinic's report about the three follicles.
This doctor advised us to try on January 21 and 23, but due to differing schedules with my husband, it was difficult to coordinate.
We ended up trying on January 19, 22, and 24.
On January 24, I started taking one small yellow pill (progesterone) in the morning and evening, and I still have not gotten my period.
I took a pregnancy test a few days ago, which was negative.
Should I stop taking the progesterone, or should I continue? The doctor prescribed the progesterone until February 4.
I would like to know if taking progesterone means my period will not come.

Ypt, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/02

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you can take a pregnancy test again.
If it is still negative, it is likely that you are not pregnant.
You may consider not taking progesterone.
Please return for a follow-up appointment with your obstetrician-gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/02/02

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether to continue taking progesterone after a negative pregnancy test, there are several important factors to consider. Progesterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining early pregnancy. It is often prescribed to women who have low levels of progesterone or who are experiencing irregular menstrual cycles, as it can help support the uterine lining and promote a healthy environment for a potential pregnancy.

In your case, it appears that you have been experiencing irregular menstrual cycles and have been prescribed progesterone to help manage these issues. You mentioned that you have not had a period since January and that you have taken a pregnancy test that returned negative. This situation raises a few important considerations.

1. Understanding the Role of Progesterone: Progesterone is typically used to prepare the uterine lining for implantation of a fertilized egg. If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels drop, leading to menstruation. If you are taking progesterone and have not had a period, it is possible that the medication is delaying your menstrual cycle. This is a common occurrence, especially if you have low progesterone levels to begin with.

2. Timing of Pregnancy Tests: It is essential to consider when you took the pregnancy test. If you tested too early, it may not have detected a pregnancy even if one exists. Generally, it is recommended to wait at least a week after a missed period to take a pregnancy test for more accurate results.

3. Consulting Your Healthcare Provider: Given your history of irregular cycles and the use of progesterone, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider regarding whether to continue the medication. They may recommend continuing progesterone until a certain point or until you have a definitive answer regarding pregnancy. If you are not pregnant, they may suggest stopping the medication to allow your menstrual cycle to resume.

4. Potential Side Effects: Some women may experience side effects from progesterone, including mood changes, bloating, or breast tenderness. If you are experiencing any concerning symptoms, it is important to discuss these with your doctor.

5. Next Steps: If you continue to have negative pregnancy tests and do not get your period, your doctor may suggest further evaluation. This could include blood tests to check hormone levels or an ultrasound to assess the condition of your ovaries and uterus.

In summary, whether to continue taking progesterone after a negative pregnancy test should be determined in consultation with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation, including your menstrual history, the timing of your pregnancy tests, and any symptoms you may be experiencing. It is important to communicate openly with your doctor about your concerns and to follow their recommendations for the best possible outcome.

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