Many people are concerned about taking Prometrium during pregnancy because of the warning on their bottle. The good news is that you can take this progesterone supplement during your first three months of pregnancy as advised by your doctor because the benefits may outweigh the risks.
Uses of Prometrium
Doctors often prescribe Prometrium as hormonal replacement therapy for postmenopausal women who have an abnormal uterine lining. This supplement can also help women who have irregular menstrual cycles to help them start their menstrual periods. For pregnant women, Prometrium can sustain a pregnancy that would normally not be viable due to low progesterone levels.
History of Miscarriages
Many women who have a history of miscarriages or undergo fertility treatment will receive a prescription for Prometrium for the first 12 days of their cycle or for the first three months of pregnancy. Progesterone in the first 12 days of a cycle helps prepare the uterine lining by thickening it so it is ready for implantation of a fertilized egg.
If a woman has a history of miscarriage along with low levels of progesterone, Prometrium can provide a boost of progesterone until the placenta takes over. Once the placenta is formed and functioning, it will produce everything the fetus needs. Most women are able to stop the supplement around 12 weeks.
Although many doctors do not believe that low levels of progesterone cause a miscarriage, it is one of the factors often present in women who have miscarried.
The Importance of Progesterone and Pregnancy
Progesterone plays a key role in the development of your baby. In the early weeks of your pregnancy, it helps provide a nurturing environment for the fertilized egg. Later on, it helps the placenta ward off any bacteria that could harm the baby. It also helps develop the mucous plug, keep the pelvic walls strong, and prevents contractions until labor. This hormone also plays a part in lactation following the baby's birth.
How to Take Prometrium
When taking Prometrium during pregnancy, discuss with your doctor which way you would like to take this supplement. You can take it orally through pill form or vaginal suppository. You may find yourself experiencing some additional nausea and dizziness beyond your early pregnancy symptoms. Many women find that the suppositories do not give them as many of the same side effects as the oral form.
Is Prometrium Safe During Pregnancy
The FDA categorizes medications to show how safe it is to a developing fetus. The safest rating is Category A. Prometrium falls under Pregnancy Category B, which means the FDA considers it safe because animal studies show no risk to a fetus. However, there haven't been enough studies on pregnant women to justify these medications for a Category A rating.
If the fact that the medication has not been studied on enough pregnant women concerns you, discuss it with your doctor. Many times, doctors will not prescribe a medication unless the benefits outweigh the risks.
Will Prometrium Prevent Miscarriage?
This progesterone supplement will not prevent a miscarriage if there is another cause besides low progesterone levels. This is only something you can use to help a healthy fetus stay safe in your uterus during those delicate first few weeks.
Talking to Your Doctor
If you think that this supplement may benefit you, discuss it with your doctor. Doctors will usually only prescribe it to patients with a history of miscarriage because most women produce an adequate amount of progesterone naturally.
Having a Successful Pregnancy
Prometrium has made it possible for many women to have the babies of their dreams. If you are feeling discouraged by unsuccessful pregnancies, talk to your OB/GYN about this supplement. It could be just what you need to help you carry your fetus to full term and finally hold your baby in your arms.
