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Assisted Reproduction - Thrive IVF Fertility

Ovulation Induction

After identifying the uniquely “you” factors affecting your fertility, we chart a course of care with you. And sometimes less is more

Without ovulation, pregnancy cannot occur. As part of many infertility treatments, our physician will begin ovarian stimulation to induce ovulation and increase the number of eggs produced in the ovaries.

This strategy is a good option to consider for women with ovulatory problems and normal sperm, either from a partner or a donor.

What is Ovulation?

Answer: Ovulation is the process where an ovary releases an egg, which can then be fertilized by sperm. It usually happens once a month and is a key part of the menstrual cycle.

Ovulation Induction and fertility medications explained by Thrive Fertility IVF in Oklahoma City, OK.

What is Ovulation Induction?

Answer: Ovulation induction is a treatment that helps women release eggs from their ovaries by using medication. This can be helpful for those who have difficulty ovulating on their own and want to improve their chances of becoming pregnant.

Common Fertility Medications for IVF and IUI Treatments

Fertility medications play a key role in assisted reproductive technologies like In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI). These medications help stimulate the ovaries, regulate hormone levels, and increase the chances of successful conception. Here’s a guide to some of the most common fertility medications used in IVF and IUI treatments:

  1. Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid or Serophene)
    • What It Does: Clomiphene is an oral medication that stimulates ovulation by encouraging the ovaries to release more eggs.
    • Who It’s For: Often used for women with irregular ovulation or unexplained infertility.
    • How It’s Used: Typically taken for 5 days early in the menstrual cycle.
  2. Letrozole (Femara)
    • What It Does: Originally used as a treatment for breast cancer, Letrozole also stimulates ovulation by lowering estrogen levels and prompting the body to produce more follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
    • Who It’s For: Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or those who did not respond to Clomid.
    • How It’s Used: Taken orally for a few days at the start of the menstrual cycle.
  3. Gonadotropins (FSH, LH, hMG)
    • What They Do: These injectable hormones stimulate the ovaries directly to produce multiple eggs.
    • Types:
      FSH (Follistim, Gonal-F):
      Stimulates the ovaries to produce follicles.
      LH or hMG (Menopur, Pergonal): Supports the growth and maturation of follicles.
    • Who They’re For: Used in IVF and IUI, especially for women with low ovarian reserve or those needing stronger stimulation.
    • How They’re Used: Injected daily, typically starting early in the menstrual cycle.
  4. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) (Ovidrel, Pregnyl)
    • What It Does: Known as the “trigger shot,” hCG is used to mature the eggs and trigger their release from the ovaries.
    • Who It’s For: Used in both IVF and IUI to time egg retrieval or insemination.
    • How It’s Used: Administered as a one-time injection when the follicles are mature.
  5. GnRH Agonists and Antagonists (Lupron, Ganirelix, Cetrotide)
    • What They Do: These medications prevent premature ovulation by controlling the body’s hormone signals.
    • Who They’re For: Primarily used in IVF cycles to ensure that eggs are retrieved at the optimal time.
    • How They’re Used: Injected daily or as a single-dose preparation, depending on the protocol.
  6. Progesterone (Endometrin, Crinone, Prometrium)
    • What It Does: Supports the uterine lining and prepares it for embryo implantation.
    • Who It’s For: Commonly used after egg retrieval in IVF or after ovulation in IUI.
    • How It’s Used: Available in various forms, including vaginal suppositories, oral pills, and injections.
  7. Metformin
    • What It Does: Helps to regulate insulin levels and improve ovulation, particularly in women with PCOS.
    • Who It’s For: Women with PCOS or insulin resistance.
    • How It’s Used: Taken orally, usually alongside other fertility treatments.

These medications are tailored to each individual’s needs and are carefully monitored by your Thrive IVF specialist to optimize your chances of a successful pregnancy. Our experienced team will guide you through each step, ensuring you understand how to use these medications and what to expect during your fertility treatment journey.