Ovulation Induction

Ovulation is the process by which a mature egg is produced and released from the ovary to be fertilised by a sperm. In response, the uterus (womb) lining thickens and prepares for the implantation of the fertilised egg. Ovulation is controlled by hormones. However, low hormonal levels may lead to problems with conception. Ovulation induction involves hormone therapy that stimulates ovaries to release eggs.

These hormones may be oral – clomiphene citrate or injections.

Indications

Ovulation induction is used to stimulate egg development and release in those who cannot ovulate. The ideal goal is to produce one egg in a single cycle to increase the chance of conception. It is usually performed in conjunction with other assisted reproductive techniques such as intrauterine insemination (IUI, injection of sperm directly into the womb).

The procedure

Clear instructions will be given prior to induction with what to do, when and how to take medications.

The Patient’s menstrual cycle is monitored by measuring your blood hormone levels. A vaginal ultrasound scan is performed to view the development of follicles in the ovary, and appearance and thickness of the lining of the womb.

Ovulation may not occur spontaneously or it may need to be encouraged with the use of extra medication (trigger).

Ovulation induction controls the time of egg release so sexual intercourse can be accurately scheduled and other assisted procedures such as IUI to increase the chances of pregnancy.

After ovulation, extra medication may be given to support the lining of the uterus. A blood test is performed a week after ovulation to check the levels of progesterone – the pregnancy support hormone.

Complications

The procedure may sometimes lead to the over stimulation of the ovaries- OHSS(ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome), which may cause severe pain in the chest, abdomen and pelvis, weight gain, nausea and difficulty in breathing.

Multiple pregnancy