What are the symptoms associated with low progesterone levels during early pregnancy?

Pregnancy Complications with Low Progesterone

In the early stages of pregnancy, low progesterone levels can lead to symptoms such as slight vaginal bleeding or fluid accumulation in the uterine cavity. An ultrasound examination may reveal a fluid-filled dark area within the uterine cavity, indicative of a threatened miscarriage. During pregnancy, serum progesterone levels steadily rise as the weeks progress, primarily sourced from the ovarian corpus luteum within the first six weeks and later, predominantly from the embryo's secretions in the second and third trimesters. Notably, within the first 12 weeks, a low progesterone level significantly increases the risk of early miscarriage.

Blood tests conducted during the initial phase of pregnancy primarily focus on measuring progesterone and serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

Can Low Progesterone Patients Take Folic Acid?

Folic acid, a vitamin, is administered during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in the fetus. Currently, there are no reported side effects associated with folic acid, nor has it been found to cause low progesterone levels or threatened miscarriages. Therefore, taking folic acid during pregnancy will not lead to low progesterone levels or胚胎停育. If progesterone levels are low, folic acid can still be taken as long as fetal development remains normal.

Progesterone Levels in Early Pregnancy

Specific progesterone values vary among individuals. Low progesterone levels during early pregnancy can predispose to a threatened miscarriage, manifested by symptoms like minimal bleeding and abdominal discomfort. These signs should not be overlooked, and pregnant women should undergo regular check-ups. Upon diagnosis, progesterone supplementation through oral or intramuscular administration of progesterone can help rectify low levels. Sustained low progesterone levels may suggest embryonic underdevelopment or miscarriages related to persistent hormonal deficiencies. After conception, serum progesterone levels increase steadily with gestation, primarily derived from the ovarian corpus luteum within the first six weeks and later, predominantly secreted by the placenta in the second and third trimesters.