Ovulation Induction

What is ovulation Induction ?

Ovulation induction in simpler terms means inducing egg formation in patients in whom eggs are not forming naturally like patients with polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) or hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. This is different from inducing formation of multiple follicles for IUI or IVF.

Who needs Ovulation induction ?

Normally in a woman in each menstrual cycle, ovulation happens in the middle of a cycle. This is the time egg is released in the body and she is most fertile. Different strips or apps designed to help a woman conceive naturally try to predict this time of ovulation and thus the most fertile period.
But in patients with Polycystic ovarian disease, eggs are not being released in the mid cycle due to hormonal imbalance. They suffer from anovulation i.e eggs not being released;hence are unable to conceive naturally. In another subset of patients called hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, the amount of hormones being released from brain is too low, hence no eggs are formed, resulting in difficulty in conception.

Are there any prerequisites for this treatment?

For ovulation induction treatment to work, it is important to ascertain there is no difficulty which can hamper conception naturally. The uterus should be normal, Fallopian tubes patent and no issues with the husband semen analysis .

How is ovulation induction done ?

Induction of egg formation in patients with PCO or any other reason for anovulation can be done by multiple drugs. There are oral drugs available like clomiphene citrate, etc. Also in patients not responsive to oral drugs , injections can be used.These injections can be used alone or in combination with oral drugs.

Who does ovulation induction ?

A gynaecologist can do ovulation induction cycles. However if a woman has had previously failed ovulation induction cycles, it is a good idea to meet a fertility expert or an IVF consultant who is specially trained in this field of reproductive endocrinology.

How is the cycle monitored ?

The response to drugs is monitored by using tranvaginal sonography. This ultrasound is called follicular monitoring or scanning. The benefit of getting treatment done with an IVF specialist like Dr. Prerna Gupta is that she will herself monitor the patient’s cycle by ultrasound, rather than a radiologist.

Do I need an ultrasound daily ?

No, there is no need for daily ultrasound . Ultrasound is usually done on day 2 of periods . Also on Day 10 of cycle and depending on follicular size on one or more occasions to confirm follicle rupture What is the success rate of ovulation induction ?

Ovulation induction, as it relies on natural conception, gives a success rate of 15-20%. If done by experienced hands in patients with PCO, almost 85-90% patients conceive by this method , without the need for an IVF cycle. Dr. Prerna Gupta is known for her highest success rates in this subgroup of patients and helps them conceive naturally.