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We understand the emotional, physical and psychological challenges that infertility presents. We have seen our patients face these difficulties with determination and courage, never losing sight of hope. We’re also pleased to report that we have helped hundreds of these women have healthy babies.
One of the effective methods we use is ovulation induction. What is ovulation induction? It’s a method that releases eggs from your ovaries, and it can be an effective solution for those who have had difficulty conceiving.
Many women struggle with infertility, and we want them to know that we are always by their sides, facing this challenge together. It is through this unity that we are able to discover some of the most effective methods of treatment tailored precisely to what our patients need. We encourage those facing fertility issues to contact us for an appointment so we can provide the help and support they need.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what ovulation induction is and how to determine if you’re a candidate.
What is Ovulation Induction and How Does Ovulation Induction Work?
As we mentioned earlier, this is a fertility treatment where we utilize medicine to release eggs from your ovaries.
The Ovulation Induction Process
- First, we test to confirm that you are not pregnant. We’ll also conduct an ultrasound and perform lab work.
- Second, if everything is normal, we’ll start your medication.
- Third, we’ll conduct another ultrasound about mid-cycle. During this time, we’ll check the size of your follicles and your uterine lining.
- Fourth, you’ll be given an injection that will finalize your egg maturation.
- Finally, if intrauterine insemination is a part of your plan, we’ll tell you when to schedule it. We’ll also provide information on when you should have intercourse after your injection.
What Fertility Medicines Are Used During Ovulation Induction?
Some of the most common medications we use are:
- Clomid
- Letrozole
- Gonadotropins
These medications are often used in conjunction with intrauterine insemination (IUI.) In this procedure, we place concentrated sperm directly into your uterus.
How Effective Is Ovulation Induction?
Ovulation induction can help you if you’re having difficulty getting pregnant; in fact, it has a 20% to 25% success rate per cycle..
Who Should Consider Ovulation Induction?
If you have had difficulty getting pregnant and are facing the emotional and physical challenges of infertility, ovulation induction could help you conceive. You could be a candidate for ovulation induction if:
- You have absent ovulation
- Your ovulation is irregular
- You have PCOS
- You are undergoing fertility treatments
- You have unexplained infertility
How We Determine If Ovulation Induction Is Right for You
No two patients or pregnancies are alike. Even if two women have the same diagnosis, each one needs a specific, tailored treatment geared just for them.
Because we honor and respect this individuality, there are several factors we consider when determining if ovulation induction is the best choice.
Fertility Assessments
The key to discovering whether or not ovulation induction is appropriate lies with the reason for your infertility. Therefore, before we consider an ovulation induction, we:
- Conduct a thorough medical history review. This includes tracking your menstrual cycles and family history.
- Ask about pre-existing medical conditions that can affect fertility. These may include everything from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to endometriosis.
- Conduct blood tests. These will check for hormone levels and any thyroid problems.
- Conduct a transvaginal ultrasound. This enables us to view your ovaries, uterus and the follicles that contain your eggs. It helps us detect any abnormalities that can affect your treatment.
Chapel Hill OBGYN: Guiding Patients on Their Conception Journey
We know that getting pregnant isn’t easy for everyone. We also understand the many varied options that are available for those struggling with infertility. We’re happy to report that there are several possibilities for finding a treatment tailored to your individual situation.
If you’re having difficulty getting pregnant, please contact us to schedule an appointment. You do not have to face this challenge alone.
The content within this article and others on this website is only for educational purposes and should not be considered medical advice. For any questions or concerns, please consult with your healthcare provider.
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Sources:
Johns Hopkins Medicine, “Ovulation Induction,” https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/gynecology-obstetrics/specialty-areas/fertility-center/infertility-services/ovulation-induction-intercourse
Northwestern Memorial Healthcare, Northwestern University, “Ovulation Induction,” https://fertility.nm.org/ovulation-induction.html
Yale Medicine, “Ovulation Induction and Intrauterine Insemination,” https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/ovulation-induction-intrauterine-insemination#:~:text=Ovulation%20induction%20uses%20fertility%20medications,ovulation%20induction%20to%20achieve%20pregnancy.
