Ovulation induction is a process that is used to stimulate the ovaries and increase the production of eggs per cycle, so they can be used in fertility treatments. This is typically used in cases where the ovaries are unhealthy or functioning below expected levels.
How Does Ovulation Induction Work?
Ovulation is a part of the menstrual cycle when the ovaries release the oocyte, or what is commonly called the ‘egg’, into the fallopian tube. Here it waits for fertilisation. If fertilisation does not occur, the body reaches the menstrual phase.
In some cases, ovaries may not be fulfilling this function and thus one may experience irregular menstrual cycles. This may be due to various reasons. If you are trying to get pregnant while dealing with such issues, you may face some obstacles.
If you opt for fertility treatments such as the IUI, your doctor may feel the need to stimulate the ovaries to produce more eggs in a single cycle. Usually, a single ovary produces one egg every cycle. Fertility treatments cannot rely on a single oocyte, and thus the need for ovarian stimulation.
Ovulation induction is the use of oral and injected drugs to enhance ovarian function and boost the process of oocyte production and release. The dosage and combination of drugs depend on your history, current health assessment, and where you are seeking the treatment.
Why Is Ovulation Induction Used?
While this may not always be the case, ovulation induction is often used as a part of other fertility treatments such as IUI. The purpose of opting for a step like this is to get the ovaries to produce more eggs that can be used for conception and increase the chances of pregnancy.
Ovulation induction may be recommended to prospective parents in cases where:
- Ovulation is irregular
- Difficulties in spontaneous ovulation
- Need for multiple eggs (fertility treatments)
Whether you may benefit from ovulation induction is best determined by your fertility specialist, after assessing your health.
Also, Read: IUI Treatment Success Rate and Risks
Ovulation Induction Risks
As mentioned, ovulation induction requires the female candidate to undergo a course of hormones and drugs that may have significant effects on her reproductive system. While these are not experienced by everyone, some of the possible mild side effects of this process include:
- Nausea
- Hot flashes
- Abdominal and pelvic pain
- Mood swings
As with several other assisted fertility practices, ovulation induction may also increase the chances of multiple pregnancies.
If you are trying to conceive and have experienced irregular menstruation in the past, ovulation induction may offer a solution for you. Consult your fertility specialist who may guide you based on your case.
Also, Read: What is IUI Infertility Treatment
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