Hello all! Today’s topic is a very interesting one, and one we get asked about a lot during our phone or video consultations (offered at NO cost). Medication plays an integral part in the conformation of a successful IVF treatment. The medication we give out is prescribed based on factors such as: age, anti-mullerian hormone levels, medical history, ultrasound visualization of the reproductive system, among others.
The majority of IVF protocols will involve a combination of medications:
1. Oral contraceptives:
This may seem VERY counterintuitive, but this is a very common practice in the IVF world. Typically given in 21 or 28 day cycles so that we can comfortably predict the next menstrual cycle.
2. Ovarian stimulators:
These medications known as Follicle Stimulation Hormones or Gonadotropins, serve to stimulate the ovaries, so that we can obtain an appropriate amount of follicles. The dosage of these medications varies tremendously from patient to patient.
3. hCG:
This medication is typically given on days 12 or 13 of the menstrual cycle. The purpose of hCG is to help the follicles mature fully, so that they are ready to be fertilized.
4. Progesterone:
In order for the uterus to be ready for implantation, patients must take this medication. Also known as the “pregnancy hormone”, progesterone will prime the uterine lining, and other organ systems for a potential pregnancy.
Undoubtedly there are other medications that we may use in order to help couple conceive. The medication listed here is simply a “quick guide” of the medication to expect from a “typical” IVF procedure.
We hope you find this guide useful! For questions or concerns about specific cases, please reach out to us so that we can help you schedule a video or phone consultation free of charge. You can also learn more about the IVF process by visiting: Tentative Schedule
No Comments