Does Taking Progesterone Before Ovulation Affect Fertility?

Q: Does Taking Progesterone Before Ovulation Affect Fertility?

Dear Min： On August 4th, the follicle size was 1.8 cm, and ovulation should have occurred by August 8th. <br>If ovulation has not occurred by August 8th, taking a small amount of progesterone should not affect the ovulation status. <br>Wishing you peace and health. <br>Sincerely,

Taking progesterone before ovulation can affect the ovulation process. Progesterone is a hormone that prepares the body for potential pregnancy after ovulation, and its administration before ovulation may inhibit the natural hormonal signals necessary for the ovulation to occur. Therefore, it is generally advised to avoid taking progesterone until after ovulation has been confirmed?

Hello doctor, I would like to get pregnant.
On August 4th, my follicle measured 1.8 cm.
The doctor instructed me to start taking progesterone, one capsule in the morning and one in the evening, starting on August 8th.
However, I'm concerned that if I haven't ovulated by August 8th (previously, my follicle reached 2.8 cm before ovulation), taking progesterone before ovulation might affect it.

min, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/08/11

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear Min: On August 4th, the follicle size was 1.8 cm, and ovulation should have occurred by August 8th.
If ovulation has not occurred by August 8th, taking a small amount of progesterone should not affect the ovulation status.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Director of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2010/08/11

More Info

When considering the use of progesterone before ovulation, it is essential to understand its role in the menstrual cycle and its potential effects on fertility. Progesterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining pregnancy. It is typically produced by the corpus luteum after ovulation and is vital for preparing the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy.

In your case, you mentioned that your doctor advised you to start taking progesterone on August 8, while your follicle was measured at 1.8 cm on August 4. You expressed concern about starting progesterone before ovulation, especially since your follicles have previously reached sizes of 2.8 cm before ovulation.

To address your concern, it is important to note that taking progesterone before ovulation can potentially interfere with the natural hormonal signals that trigger ovulation. Progesterone is known to have a negative feedback effect on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which can inhibit the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) necessary for triggering ovulation. Therefore, if you take progesterone before your body has a chance to ovulate, it may delay or prevent ovulation from occurring.

However, the timing of progesterone administration can vary based on individual circumstances and the specific treatment plan outlined by your healthcare provider. In some cases, doctors may prescribe progesterone to support the luteal phase after ovulation has occurred, especially for women with luteal phase defects or those who have experienced recurrent miscarriages. In such situations, the goal is to ensure that the uterine lining is adequately prepared for implantation.

Given your situation, it would be advisable to communicate your concerns with your healthcare provider. They may suggest monitoring your ovulation more closely, possibly using ovulation predictor kits or ultrasound assessments, to determine the optimal time to start progesterone. If ovulation has not yet occurred by the time you are scheduled to start progesterone, your doctor may recommend delaying the initiation of the medication until after ovulation is confirmed.

In summary, while progesterone is essential for preparing the uterine lining for pregnancy, taking it before ovulation can potentially affect your ability to ovulate. It is crucial to follow your doctor's guidance and discuss any concerns you have regarding the timing of progesterone administration in relation to your ovulation cycle. Your healthcare provider can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation and help you optimize your chances of conception.

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