Can You Get Pregnant While Taking Progesterone for Delayed Period?

Probability of Pregnancy

Hello, doctor.
Since my period hasn't arrived, I consulted with you and was prescribed progesterone.
During this time, if I have intercourse, could I become pregnant?

A Fen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/02/28

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

If your period is late, it is usually due to anovulation, making it difficult to conceive.
However, after taking progesterone, you should expect some menstrual bleeding.
If your period still does not arrive one week after finishing the progesterone, you should take a pregnancy test.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan General Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/02/28

More Info

When it comes to the use of progesterone for delaying menstruation and the potential for pregnancy, it's important to understand how progesterone works in the body and its implications for fertility.

Progesterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and in maintaining pregnancy. It is often prescribed to help regulate menstrual cycles, support the luteal phase, and prepare the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy. In cases where menstruation is delayed, progesterone can be used to induce a period by signaling the body to shed the uterine lining.

If you are taking progesterone to delay your period, it is essential to consider the timing of sexual intercourse in relation to your menstrual cycle. If you engage in sexual activity while taking progesterone, there is still a possibility of becoming pregnant, especially if you have not yet ovulated. The hormone can help regulate your cycle, but it does not prevent ovulation from occurring. If ovulation happens while you are taking progesterone, and sperm is present, fertilization can occur, leading to a potential pregnancy.

Moreover, if you are taking progesterone and you do become pregnant, the hormone can actually support the early stages of pregnancy by maintaining the uterine lining and preventing contractions that could lead to miscarriage. This is why progesterone is often prescribed for women who have experienced recurrent miscarriages or have difficulty maintaining a pregnancy.

However, it is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding the use of progesterone. If you are trying to conceive, it is advisable to discuss your plans with your doctor. They can provide guidance on the best approach to take, including whether to continue with progesterone or to adjust your treatment based on your specific circumstances.

In summary, while taking progesterone for a delayed period does not inherently prevent pregnancy, it is essential to monitor your cycle and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. If you have concerns about your fertility or the effects of progesterone on your menstrual cycle, a healthcare professional can provide the most accurate and tailored information based on your health history and current situation.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get Pregnant While Taking Progesterone?

I am currently taking progesterone to suppress endometriosis and have been on it for 3 days (started on April 14). My period started on April 1 and ended on April 7. I had sexual intercourse on April 16, using a condom and without ejaculation. Is it likely that I could become pre...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, but it is best to take preventive measures beforehand. If your period is more than a week late, it is recommended to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

Can You Get Pregnant While Taking Progesterone?

If your menstrual period is expected around March 4th and you start taking progesterone from February 27th until your return on March 9th, having sexual intercourse between March 3rd and March 9th could potentially lead to pregnancy. This is because progesterone can affect ovulat...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Menstruation is expected around March 3rd or 4th. Since I will be traveling abroad, I will start taking progesterone from February 27th until I return on March 9th. If sexual intercourse occurs between March 3rd and March 9th, is it likely to result in pregnancy? Answer: It is un...

How to Delay Your Period: The Role of Progesterone

Hello, I would like to ask about delaying my menstrual period (because I am going on a trip). What medication should I take? Does taking progesterone help to bring my period earlier or delay it? Thank you.

Dr. Wu Huiling reply Pharmacology
Hello! During the mid-menstrual cycle after ovulation, the ovaries form a corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone. Progesterone stabilizes the endometrium to facilitate the implantation of a fertilized egg. If pregnancy does not occur, approximately fourteen days after ovulati...

Can You Get Pregnant While Taking Medroxyprogesterone?

Hello, I expect my period to start on November 23. I went to the gynecologist to get medication to delay my period because I will be traveling. The doctor prescribed Medroxyprogesterone for me to take from November 19 to November 23. However, I had unprotected intercourse on Nove...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low. Wishing you good health.