Ovulation Induction

During ovulation induction drugs are used to stimulate the follicles (fluid filled sacs) in your ovaries to produce an egg. The dosage and timing are carefully worked out for the optimum chance of pregnancy. There are several ovulation induction drugs available. Your consultant will recommend the drug that is most appropriate in your own situation.

An important part of the ovulation induction process is monitoring. Regular monitoring using ultrasound and hormone measurement tests aims to ensure egg production is limited and helps to pinpoint the optimum time for intercourse or intra-uterine insemination.

What are the risks?

In most cases ovulation induction is a safe and effective way to restore fertility. As with any procedure there could be complications:

• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome - swollen ovaries resulting in abdominal pain and bloating and weight gain.
• Multiple pregnancy - in line with HFEA guidelines we are committed to reducing our multiple pregnancy rate (the number of pregnancies that are twins or more).
• Ectopic pregnancy - in rare cases a fertilised egg implants outside of the womb, most often in the fallopian tubes
• Miscarriage - as with any pregnancy
• Infections or bleeding

If you have any concerns about the risks of ovulation induction please discuss them with a member of our healthcare team. We understand treatment for infertility can be stressful. Our experienced team will be with you every step of the way.