Ovulation Induction

Approximately 25 percent of women who are experiencing infertility have medical issues related to ovulation. These include failure to release an egg (anovulation) or an inability to develop and mature a healthy egg. Some conditions associated with ovulation dysfunction are polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), thyroid issues, and irregular or absent menstrual cycles (amenorrhea).

What Is Ovulation Induction?

Ovulation induction involves using medication to induce ovulation and improve the lining of the uterus (endometrium). If you are diagnosed with ovulation dysfunction after a hormonal evaluation, our physicians will select the best medication for your specific treatment. These drugs simulate follicle stimulation hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are normally produced by the pituitary gland to develop ovarian follicles and trigger ovulation. The drugs may be administered orally or as injections. Some of these medications include Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid), Glucophage (Metformin), Letrozole (Femara), Menotropins (Menopur), Gonal-F and Follistim (recombinant FSH).

Ovulation induction may also be used in conjunction with intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), or other treatments to increase the number of ovarian follicles (where the egg matures) and the potential for the release of multiple mature ova. This can provide a greater chance at fertilization success due to the increased number of released ova. Ovulation induction can also regulate and control the timing of ovulation.

What Happens After This Treatment?

Your physician will reevaluate your reproductive needs after ovulation induction is complete and determine whether a further course of treatment is needed to achieve a successful pregnancy.