Intrauterine
Insemination (IUI)

Learn about this procedure in combination with ovulation induction.

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In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Learn more about this procedure.

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Get by step-by-step instructions on injecting medications.
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ovulation induction




Ovulation Induction

Inducing ovulation through medication is often the starting point in fertility treatment, as well as the first step in advanced treatments like IVF. If you do not ovulate or have menstrual cycle irregularities, these medications can help stimulate your body's normal reproductive processes by supplementing essential hormones. As a result, your eggs will be more likely to develop to maturity and a greater number will be released from the ovaries, improving the chances of pregnancy.

The Ovulation Induction Process

1. Taking medications. Depending on the causes of irregular ovulation, different

medications may be prescribed. Treatment may begin with a drug like Clomid®, which is taken orally. For women who don't respond to this regimen, we may supplement it with an injection of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), which is key to healthy egg development.

2. Ultrasounds and blood samples. During treatment, we will employ ultrasounds

and blood samples to assess the potential for success and monitor development of follicles, the fluid-filled sacs in which the eggs will develop.

3. Triggering ovulation. When an egg is ready, your body normally releases

luteinizing hormone (LH) to trigger its release. An HCG injection can be used to mimic this LH surge. Approximately 36-38 hours after the injection, ovulation will ensue, allowing intercourse or insemination to be timed perfectly for fertilization to occur.

4. Fertilizing the egg. With ovulation occurring, it's important that the sperm

can reach the egg. If well-timed intercourse isn't getting results, it may be time to consider intrauterine insemination.

5. Implantation. Normally, progesterone is secreted by the ovary after ovulation

to make the lining of the uterus receptive to implantation of a fertilized egg. We may administer supplemental progesterone to enhance this process.

 








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*Individual results may vary.