If you're considering IVF treatment or have been prescribed it by a fertility specialist, you may have come across some complicated medical terms that you don't quite understand. Although the terms can sound quite disturbing, it is important to understand what is happening at each stage of treatment. Here we will look at the first stage, namely the stimulation of the ovaries.
When is ovarian stimulation used?
Ovarian stimulation is generally used: → To induce ovulation in women with ovulatory dysfunction to help them conceive. → For egg retrieval in IVF treatments. → To store eggs for future use.
How does ovarian stimulation work?
In a natural ovulation cycle, natural hormonal changes dictate the maturation and release of the egg. In some women, however, this does not happen naturally, so drugs are administered to stimulate ovarian function. This makes it possible to plan each hormonal change, thus optimizing the quality of the eggs that are released.
Stages of IVF Treatment
- Ovarian stimulation
- Egg retrieval
- ICSI insemination/insemination/
- Embryo transfer
The process of ovarian stimulation generally begins one week before the expected date of the next period in the long protocol. In the antagonist protocol, stimulation begins on the second day of the menstrual cycle. Many hormones are given so that many mature eggs can be retrieved in one egg retrieval procedure. Ovarian stimulation is achieved by injections of gonadotropins containing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). These stimulate the development of multiple follicles in the ovaries. FSH injections are given for about 10 days before the candidate is ready for egg retrieval. The candidate is closely monitored with the help of ultrasound during the stage of ovarian stimulation. The number of follicles present is examined and their size is measured. If sufficient follicles greater than 17-18 mm in diameter are found, the oocyte retrieval procedure is planned. A final injection of HCG is given to promote the final maturation of the eggs. To learn more about ovarian stimulation, contact the Center for Reproductive and Fetal Medicine – Dr. Alexander Trajan for a consultation.