Ovulation induction is a medical procedure that helps stimulate the development and release of eggs (ovulation) from the ovaries in women who have difficulty ovulating on their own. It is commonly used as a fertility treatment for women who are trying to get pregnant but have irregular or absent menstrual cycles.
The main goal of ovulation induction is to facilitate the growth and maturation of one or more ovarian follicles, which contain the eggs. This is often achieved through the use of medications known as ovulation-inducing agents. These medications can be administered in different forms, such as oral tablets, injections, or nasal sprays.
The most common medications used for ovulation induction include:
- Clomiphene citrate: This oral medication is often the first-line treatment for ovulation induction. It works by blocking the action of estrogen receptors in the brain, leading to increased production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The rise in FSH and LH triggers the growth and development of ovarian follicles, eventually leading to ovulation.
- Gonadotropins: These are injectable medications that contain FSH and LH hormones directly. They provide more precise control over follicle development and are often used in cases where clomiphene citrate is ineffective or not suitable.
- Letrozole: Originally developed as a breast cancer treatment, letrozole is another oral medication used for ovulation induction. It works by reducing estrogen levels in the body, leading to an increase in FSH and LH production and, subsequently, follicle growth and ovulation.
The ovulation induction process typically involves close monitoring of the ovarian response through ultrasound scans and hormone level measurements. This allows healthcare providers to adjust the medication dosage as needed to optimize the chances of successful ovulation while minimizing the risk of multiple pregnancies.
Once ovulation occurs, the couple may be advised to time sexual intercourse to increase the likelihood of conception. Alternatively, assisted reproductive technologies such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be recommended in some cases.
It’s important to note that ovulation induction should always be performed under the guidance of Dr. Mamatha CV, as it requires careful monitoring and individualized treatment plans based on the patient’s specific medical history and needs.