Struggling to Conceive: Ovulation and Hormone Treatments - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When it comes to understanding ovulation and hormone treatments, especially in the context of trying to conceive, it's essential to grasp how these processes work and the role of medications like progesterone (often referred to as "小黃球" or "yellow pill" in Chinese) in regulating your menstrual cycle and supporting early pregnancy.

From your description, it seems you have been closely monitoring your menstrual cycle and ovulation. You mentioned that your last menstrual period started on January 29 and that you began taking ovulation medication shortly after. The presence of a follicle measuring around 2 cm indicates that your body is responding well to the treatment, as this size is typically considered mature enough for ovulation.

You noted that ovulation likely occurred around March 11, with sexual intercourse on March 15 and 16. Following this, your doctor advised you to start taking progesterone (the "小黃球") on March 17. Progesterone is crucial in the luteal phase of your cycle, as it helps prepare the uterine lining for a potential implantation of a fertilized egg. If conception occurs, progesterone levels remain elevated to support the early stages of pregnancy.

Regarding your symptoms, such as abdominal discomfort and breast tenderness, these can be common side effects of progesterone supplementation. They can also be early signs of pregnancy, but they are not definitive indicators. The fact that you experienced these symptoms after starting the progesterone could suggest that your body is responding to the hormone, but they are not conclusive proof of pregnancy.

You mentioned that you took a pregnancy test on March 30 and did not receive a positive result. It's important to note that pregnancy tests measure the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is only produced after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. This usually occurs about 6 to 10 days after ovulation. Given that you ovulated around March 11, it might be too early to test accurately on March 30, especially if implantation occurred later. Many healthcare providers recommend waiting at least a week after a missed period for the most reliable results.

As for when to expect your period after taking progesterone, it typically depends on the individual and the specific dosage prescribed. After stopping progesterone, most women will get their period within a few days to a week. If you do not get your period after stopping the medication, it may be worth repeating a pregnancy test or consulting your doctor for further evaluation.

In summary, while it can be disheartening to see a negative pregnancy test, it may still be too early to determine if conception has occurred. Continue to monitor your symptoms, and if your period does not arrive within a week after stopping the progesterone, consider following up with your healthcare provider for further guidance. They may suggest additional testing or adjustments to your treatment plan based on your individual circumstances. Remember, trying to conceive can be a complex process, and it’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare team throughout this journey.