Ovulation Induction
Ovulation induction is a cornerstone of fertility treatment, offering hope to many who face challenges in conceiving. This procedure stimulates the ovaries to produce and release eggs, thereby enhancing the likelihood of pregnancy.
Understanding the intricacies of ovulation induction can help demystify the process and reassure those embarking on this journey.
What is Ovulation Induction?
Ovulation induction uses medications to stimulate ovulation in women with irregular or absent cycles (anovulation).
Typically, ovulation involves the release of a mature egg from the ovary about every 28 days during a menstrual cycle. Cycles between 21 and 35 days are usually considered normal. If the egg is not fertilised, it and any surrounding tissues are naturally broken down and expelled from the uterus.
Irregular ovulation is characterised by cycles occurring less frequently than every 35 days or being unpredictable. When ovulation is inconsistent in timing or duration, it is called oligoovulation. The complete absence of ovulation is known as anovulation.
These ovulatory issues can disrupt fertility by reducing the predictability of ovulation and potentially reducing the chance of egg fertilisation. Ovulation induction aims to enhance a woman’s chances of conception, either through sexual intercourse, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or other fertility treatments.
If anovulation is a symptom of a broader fertility issue, addressing the underlying condition may restore normal ovulation and improve fertility.
Medications Used in Ovulation Induction
The medications used in ovulation induction fall into two main categories: Oral medications and Injectable hormones.
1- Oral Medications
Clomiphene Citrate: Clomiphene citrate, often the initial treatment, functions by blocking estrogen receptors in the brain. This, in turn, stimulates the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH), which promote the growth and release of eggs.
Letrozole (aromatase inhibitors): Originally developed for breast cancer treatment, letrozole is now widely used for ovulation induction. It lowers estrogen levels, leading to an increase in FSH production.
2- Injectable Hormones
Gonadotropins: These hormones, including FSH and LH, are directly injected to stimulate the ovaries. They are usually considered when oral medications are ineffective.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): Often referred to as the “trigger shot,” hCG induces the final maturation and release of eggs.
The Process of Ovulation Induction
The ovulation induction procedure step by step typically involves several steps
A thorough evaluation by a fertility consultant, including medical history, physical examination, and various tests, is essential. Tests might involve blood work to evaluate hormone levels and ultrasound scans to inspect the ovaries and uterus.
Based on the assessment, a tailored medication regimen is prescribed. Oral medications are usually taken for five days early in the menstrual cycle, while injectable hormones may require daily administration for a week or more.
Regular monitoring through blood tests and pelvic ultrasounds is crucial to track the response to medication. This helps in adjusting dosages and timing the hCG shot to trigger ovulation
After the trigger shot, ovulation typically occurs within 24 – 36 hours. Patients are encouraged to engage in timed intercourse or opt for IUI, where sperm is directly inserted into the uterus, to enhance the likelihood of fertilisation.
Who Could Benefit from Ovulation Induction?
Ovulation induction is a standard treatment designed to help women who experience absent or infrequent ovulation. It is particularly beneficial for those with ovulation-interrupting disorders such as PCOS.
This treatment is also used alongside In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to stimulate the release of multiple mature eggs for collection and lab fertilisation, known as controlled ovarian hyperstimulation.
When considering ovulation induction, physicians typically evaluate:
- Direct ovulation inhibitors: Disorders like PCOS.
- Hormone levels: The presence of FSH, AMH, and LH.
- Indirect ovulation inhibitors: Conditions such as thyroid disorders, eating disorders, and obesity.
- Excessive exercise levels: The amount of physical activity the woman engages in.
Risks and Side Effects of Ovulation Induction
Ovulation induction medications can sometimes lead to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), with side effects ranging from mild to severe. These usually resolve within a few weeks without treatment and may include:
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Hot flashes
- Weight gain
- Pelvic tenderness
- Blurry vision
Multiple pregnancy: Superovulation treatment can cause multiple eggs to be released, increasing the chances of multiple fertilised eggs (embryos) and resulting in a high-risk pregnancy.
Benefits of Ovulation Induction
Ovulation induction is often one of the initial treatments for infertility due to its noninvasive nature and relatively low cost compared to other fertility options like IVF.
In more severe cases of anovulation or other infertility causes, ovulation induction can be effectively combined with IVF, intrauterine insemination (IUI), and other holistic treatments.
Like any assisted medical procedure, it’s essential to consult a fertility consultant such as Dr Salem El Shawarby to discuss your individual situation and expectations.
With the continuous advancements in reproductive medicine, the dream of becoming a parent is becoming a reality for many.
Expert Ovulation Induction Fertility Treatment in Abu Dhabi with Dr Salem El Shawarby
If you seek effective ovulation induction treatment in Abu Dhabi, schedule a consultation with Dr Salem El Shawarby, a renowned Reproductive Medicine and Infertility Consultant. His expertise and personalised approach can guide you on your journey to parenthood.
