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Ovulation induction is a promising option for patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome, oligomenorrhea, endometriosis or male factor infertility. The technique involves the use of certain medications to stimulate a woman’s ovaries to produce one or more eggs, or oocytes. These medications also can be used to control when a woman ovulates, so that sexual intercourse, intrauterine inseminations, artificial inseminations and in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures can be scheduled at an optimal time.
Medication regimens for ovulation induction vary by patient; while some patients may be prescribed a pill that can be taken orally, such as Clomid, others may be prescribed injectable hormone medications, like Gonal-F®.
Injectable medications are typically administered at home by the patient and her partner, between the hours of 6 and 11 p.m. Before being prescribed these medications, you and your partner will be taught all necessary administration techniques by our physicians and staff. Your progress will be monitored closely, via regular blood tests and ultrasounds, and your medication dosage will be adjusted accordingly. Blood test and ultrasound results are available from 1 to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.
It’s important to keep in mind that ALL ovulation-inducing medications carry the risk of side effects. However, these side effects are usually temporary. If any side effects become persistent or bothersome, please call our office at 215-887-2010.
Note: A recent study has raised the possibility of a link between ovulation-inducing agents and an increased risk of ovarian carcinoma. Other studies have not shown this association. If you have any concerns about this, please share them with your physician.
Medications used in ovulation induction:
Listed below are some of the medications we commonly prescribe to induce ovulation. For administration instructions and other important information, simply click on the name of the medication you have been prescribed.
If your prescribed ovulation-inducing medication is NOT listed below, please contact our office at 215-887-2010.
• Clomid
• Gonal-F®/Follistim AQ
• Metformin
• Bravelle, Menopur, Repronex
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