What does a drop in E1G (Estrogen 1 Glucuronide) to 110 followed by a rise to 128.4, with sustained PdG (Progesterone glucuronide) levels of 20, indicate at 11 and 12 days past the initial LH (Luteinizing Hormone) surge in a patient attempting to conceive?

Hormone Pattern Interpretation: Post-LH Surge E1G and PdG Levels

Direct Answer

Your hormone pattern shows a normal post-ovulatory luteal phase with the expected mid-luteal estrogen rise, confirming successful ovulation and adequate corpus luteum function. 1, 2

Understanding Your Hormone Values

PdG (Progesterone) Levels

• Your sustained PdG of 20 μg/mL at both 11 and 12 days post-LH surge confirms ovulation occurred. 1, 3
• The threshold for ovulation confirmation is 5 μg/mL, and your level of 20 μg/mL indicates robust luteal function. 1, 3
• After ovulation, the corpus luteum produces progesterone, which rises 24-36 hours post-ovulation and should remain elevated throughout the luteal phase. 4, 3
• Stable PdG levels at this range (days 11-12 post-LH surge) are physiologically normal and expected during the mid-luteal phase. 5, 6

E1G (Estrogen) Pattern

• The initial drop to 110 followed by a rise to 128.4 represents the normal biphasic estrogen pattern of the luteal phase. 2, 5
• After ovulation, estrogen initially decreases as the LH surge induces marked reduction in estrogen production approximately 12 hours prior to ovulation. 4
• E1G levels rise again during the mid-luteal phase (approximately 7-10 days post-ovulation), reaching levels 2-3 times higher than early follicular baseline. 2
• Your timing (11-12 days post-LH surge) corresponds precisely to when this mid-luteal estrogen rise should occur. 2, 5

Clinical Significance for Conception

Positive Indicators

• Both hormones demonstrate a healthy, ovulatory cycle with adequate corpus luteum function. 1, 5
• The corpus luteum secretes both progesterone and estradiol, reaching peak secretion 6-7 days after ovulation, which aligns with your timeline. 5
• Elevated progesterone and estrogen together during the mid-luteal phase create optimal conditions for endometrial receptivity and potential implantation. 5, 6

Expected Progression

• If conception occurred, the corpus luteum will be maintained by hCG from the trophoblast starting 8 days after conception, preventing luteal regression. 5
• If conception did not occur, progesterone and estrogen will decline as the corpus luteum undergoes passive regression, triggering menstruation. 5
• The fertile window was 5 days before to the day of ovulation; intercourse during this period maximizes conception probability. 5

Important Caveats

• Individual cycle length affects timing—these interpretations assume your typical cycle length and ovulation timing. 2, 7
• Women with shorter cycles (25 days) ovulate earlier, while longer cycles have later ovulation, shifting all post-ovulatory timing accordingly. 2
• Continue monitoring—if menstruation does not occur within the expected timeframe (typically 12-16 days post-ovulation), pregnancy testing is indicated. 8, 1