progesterone cream issues..so frustrated!

[Batia]

I am so frustrated and not sure what to do..

I have been using progesterone cream for 3 months. The first month everything was fine but then the last two months; this one and the last one I am having spotting. I start using the cream 3 days post ovulation and on 4 days post ovulation I start having brown spotting.

What concerns me is that if it is my body getting rid of excess estrogen as those that sell it (I emailed some people who have websites for the cream, etc..) have suggested then how am I ever going to get pg again?

The spotting right away clues me in that I am not pg and that my body isn't able to support a baby because of the hormone levels. Although I know this could be wrong I haven't gotten pg anytime I have spotting in a cycle.

Anyway, I wonder if using the cream is just making things worse. I am also taking vitex and that seems to be working fine. I was going to stop the cream now but if there is even a slight chance I am pg I can't stop it. I am seriously thinking of not using it again next cycle and just taking the vitex..

Does anyone have any experience with progesterone cream causing spotting? Or any other advice?

[Batia]

Anyone?? Help please...

[gozal]

I'm sorry I don't know the answer to your question, but I do have some experience with progesterone supplementation. I've never experienced spotting, actually the opposite - higher temps and AF stays away for at least 48 hours after I stop. Not from OTC cream though, from prescription suppositories.

What is the reason you are using vitex and progesterone cream? I think that may be the key. Was there an imbalance you're trying to correct? Or are you trying to boost your chances? Have you had any blood levels taken? What is your LP normally like?

[Jaimee]

Originally Posted by gozal 

What is the reason you are using vitex and progesterone cream? I think that may be the key. Was there an imbalance you're trying to correct? Or are you trying to boost your chances? Have you had any blood levels taken? What is your LP normally like?

Yes and are you charting?  If so, can you share your chart with us?  Spotting is usually an indication of fluctuating hormones- low progesterone and/or surge in estrogen.  If you are not usually a spotter then this could be a sign that what you're taking is not helping.  Or it could be a sign that things are changing, on their way to regulating.  It's hard to say.  But generally it is my advice to not take any major supplements (like vitex or NPC) until you know more about what is happening with your cycles on a regular, unmedicated basis. 

[Batia]

I am using the NPC for a short luteal phase due to bf. I have decided to just take the vitex and stop the NPC this next cycle. I have had that same thought in my mind; that perhaps I don't need it. We do want to conceive soon and are trying. Fortunately the bleeding only lasted about a day and I haven't had anymore. 

[Jaimee]

I think that sounds like a good plan.  Your LP will elongate/regulate on its own when your body is ready to get pregnant again.  I feel strongly that our bodies have their own wisdom.  I know it can be hard to wait, though, when emotionally you feel ready now!