Are Infertility Progesterone Treatments Right For You?

The term infertility progesterone problem is more than a mouthful for most of us. But the fact is that the tongue-twisting name is a common barrier to fertility. Fortunately, it’s also a problem with variety of treatment options. Here is your guide to progesterone fertility treatments:

Progesterone is a must-have fertility hormone.

The ovaries produce this hormone when a mature egg is released during ovulation. Progesterone’s critical job is to prepare the lining of the uterus for a fertilized egg. If a fertilized egg doesn’t implant, progesterone levels drop causing the lining to disintegrate and trigger the start of a period.

Low levels of progesterone prevent egg implantation.

If a test finds low levels of the hormone, you may have infertility progesterone problems. Low levels mean the uterine lining starts to disintegrate before the fertilized egg can properly embed itself. In short, the uterus does not have the type of welcoming environment that allows the egg to grow; instead, it’s a hostile place that makes it impossible for a fetus to thrive.

The medical term for low progesterone levels is Luteal Phase Defect (LPD), and specialists treat it with progesterone therapy. If the condition isn’t treated, experts say even when a woman does become pregnant there is a high miscarriage rate.

Progesterone treatment is available in several forms:

* Cream: While the cream is an affordable option for many, be aware that over-the-counter creams aren’t regulated by the FDA like progesterone treatments that are available through a prescription. Always be sure a cream has a good track record of safety before using it.

* Gel: The hormone-containing gel is inserted into the vagina using a specially designed applicator. Some users, however, think the gel is a mess to apply.

* Oral: For most women who need an infertility progesterone treatment, a tablet is probably the easiest and most convenient way to boost progesterone levels. Many fertility professionals, though, don’t recommend them because the liver metabolizes the pill, making it less effective.

* Suppository: This treatment contains the fertility hormone in a capsule that is inserted into the vagina or, sometimes, the rectum. A pharmacist will custom compound the suppositories based on the dose prescribed by a fertility specialist. After it’s inserted, body heat melts the wax, releasing the progesterone. The typical dose is two times per day for several weeks before your period begins.

* Injection: For treating infertility progesterone problems, shots are often prescribed by fertility specialists. The injection is often made with a mixture of peanut or sesame oil, so if you have an allergy to either look for an alternative form of hormone treatment.

Progesterone may cause side effects.

Many women have taken progesterone without feeling negative side effects. However, you should be aware this hormone may cause bloating or swelling and tenderness in the breasts. In fact, some women say the side effects mimic the signs of early pregnancy.

Is progesterone right for your fertility challenges?

Your health care professional will work with you to find out if low progesterone levels are causing fertility issues. No matter which infertility progesterone treatment you choose, it is one of the simplest and most cost-effective medical treatments for boosting fertility.

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